Tailored Jackets - The Ultimate Guide: What to Buy and Where

A well-fitted tailored jacket is the ultimate wardrobe investment that instantly elevates any outfit, whether you're commanding the boardroom or conquering weekend brunch. As a stylist who's spent years perfecting the art of jacket selection, I can tell you that finding the right tailored piece isn't just about following trends—it's about understanding your body, your lifestyle, and investing in quality that will serve you for decades.

The beauty of a tailored jacket lies in its versatility and timeless appeal. From classic blazers that pair seamlessly with everything from jeans to silk skirts, to structured military-inspired styles that add instant sophistication, the right jacket becomes your style signature. After years of helping clients navigate the world of tailored outerwear, I've learned that the secret isn't just in the cut—it's in understanding which styles work for different body shapes, lifestyles, and budgets.

Understanding Tailored Jacket Styles

The Classic Blazer

The cornerstone of any sophisticated wardrobe, a classic blazer should sit comfortably across your shoulders with sleeves ending just above your wrist bone. Look for structured shoulders that don't overwhelm your frame, and ensure the button stance flatters your torso length. A single-breasted design is most versatile, though double-breasted styles create a more dramatic, fashion-forward silhouette.

The Boyfriend Blazer

Offering a relaxed alternative to traditional tailoring, boyfriend blazers provide comfort without sacrificing style. The key is finding one that looks intentionally oversized rather than simply too big. The shoulders should still align with yours, and the length should hit at a flattering point on your hips.

Cropped Jackets

Perfect for high-waisted bottoms and creating the illusion of longer legs, cropped tailored jackets work particularly well on petite frames or when you want to showcase a statement belt or high-waisted trousers.

Military-Inspired Styles

From sharp double-breasted designs to structured styles with gold buttons, military-inspired jackets add instant authority to your look. These work brilliantly for creating a strong shoulder line and commanding presence.

Choosing the Right Fit for Your Body Shape

Pear Shape

Focus on jackets that create structure through the shoulders whilst skimming over the hips. Look for styles with peaked lapels, structured shoulders, or interesting details around the neckline. Avoid jackets that end exactly at your widest point—opt for cropped styles or longer lengths that fall below the hip.

Apple Shape

Choose jackets that create definition at the waist without being too fitted through the middle. Open-front blazers, waterfall styles, or jackets with a gentle A-line silhouette work beautifully. Avoid double-breasted styles or anything too boxy through the torso.

Rectangle Shape

You can wear almost any style, but focus on creating curves and definition. Belted jackets, peplum styles, or blazers with interesting seaming details will add shape. Experiment with different textures and colours to create visual interest.

Hourglass Shape

Emphasise your natural waist with fitted blazers that follow your silhouette. Single-breasted styles with a defined waist, wrap-front designs, or jackets with subtle belt details will showcase your proportions beautifully.

Fabric and Quality Considerations

The fabric of your tailored jacket determines not only how it looks but how it wears over time. Wool blends offer excellent structure and durability, making them ideal for investment pieces. Cotton and linen provide breathability for warmer weather, though they may wrinkle more easily. For year-round versatility, look for ponte fabrics or stretch wool blends that maintain their shape whilst offering comfort.

Quality indicators include clean, even stitching, properly aligned patterns at seams, and buttons that feel substantial. The lining should lie flat without pulling, and the jacket should maintain its shape after wearing. Don't forget to check that buttonholes are properly finished—this is often where cheaper construction becomes apparent.

Colour and Pattern Strategy

Building a tailored jacket wardrobe starts with versatile neutrals. Navy, black, and charcoal grey form the foundation, offering maximum mixing potential. Once you've established these basics, consider adding a camel or cream piece for softer contrast, or a rich jewel tone that complements your colouring.

For patterns, start with subtle textures like herringbone or fine pinstripes before moving to bolder checks or prints. Remember that patterns should complement rather than compete with the rest of your outfit—a tweed blazer pairs beautifully with solid basics, whilst a bright floral jacket needs simple accompaniments.

High Street Heroes

COS consistently delivers minimalist tailored jackets with clean lines and excellent construction at accessible prices. Their blazers offer a sophisticated aesthetic without unnecessary embellishment.

Arket provides sustainable tailoring options with classic cuts that work across age groups and occasions. Their wool blazers are particularly noteworthy for quality at this price point.

Whistles offers contemporary tailoring with a fashion-forward edge. Their seasonal updates to classic blazer shapes keep your look current without sacrificing timeless appeal.

Other Storeys at John Lewis curates excellent tailored pieces from various designers, offering both classic and trend-led options with the reliability of department store service.

Jigsaw specialises in sophisticated tailoring with interesting details and quality fabrics that punch above their price point.

Premium Investment Pieces

Theory delivers impeccable tailoring with modern silhouettes and luxurious fabrics. Their blazers are investment pieces that maintain their shape and style through years of wear.

Joseph offers architectural tailoring with clean lines and exceptional quality. Perfect for building a capsule wardrobe of versatile, sophisticated pieces.

Equipment provides classic American tailoring with a relaxed sophistication. Their blazers work equally well in professional and casual settings.

Ganni brings Scandinavian cool to tailored dressing with unexpected details and modern proportions that feel fresh yet timeless.

Sandro offers Parisian chic in their tailored pieces, combining classic French tailoring techniques with contemporary styling.

Designer Indulgences

Saint Laurent epitomises sophisticated power dressing with sharp shoulders and impeccable tailoring that commands attention in any room.

Blazé Milano creates show-stopping blazers with bold prints and luxurious fabrics that make every outfit feel special.

Totême offers minimalist luxury with perfectly proportioned blazers that embody effortless Scandinavian elegance.

Isabel Marant brings French insouciance to tailoring with relaxed fits and unexpected details that feel both polished and approachable.

Acne Studios provides avant-garde tailoring with architectural details and innovative proportions for the fashion-forward dresser.

Styling Your Tailored Jacket

Professional Polish

Pair a structured blazer with tailored trousers or a pencil skirt, adding a silk blouse for ultimate sophistication. Keep accessories minimal but impactful—a quality watch and delicate jewellery enhance rather than distract from the tailored silhouette.

Weekend Warrior

Transform any casual outfit by throwing on a blazer. Try yours over a simple white tee and straight-leg jeans, or layer over a midi dress for instant elevation. The key is mixing formal and casual elements for that coveted 'effortless chic' aesthetic.

Evening Elegance

A sleek blazer over a silk camisole with tailored trousers creates sophisticated evening wear without the fuss of a full formal ensemble. Add statement earrings and pointed-toe heels for added drama.

Care and Maintenance

Proper care extends the life of your tailored jackets significantly. Always hang blazers on structured hangers to maintain shoulder shape, and allow garments to air between wears rather than immediate dry cleaning. For wrinkles, steaming is gentler than pressing and helps maintain the fabric's natural drape.

Invest in professional cleaning only when necessary—over-cleaning can damage fibres and reduce the garment's lifespan. For minor marks, spot cleaning often suffices. Store jackets in breathable garment bags during off-seasons, and consider cedar accessories to deter moths whilst maintaining freshness.

Never Guess Your Size Again with Tellar.co.uk

Finding the perfect tailored jacket is only half the battle—getting the sizing right is where many of us stumble. That's where Tellar.co.uk becomes your styling secret weapon.

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Explore More Style Guidance:

The Tellar Fashion Hub is stacked with free posts from top stylists. Honest. Unbiased. Independent and Always Free. Discover style advice, top picks, and the best brands for every occasion.

Whether you're investing in your first quality blazer or expanding an existing collection, Tellar ensures every purchase fits perfectly the first time. No more returns, no more guesswork—just perfectly fitted tailoring that makes you look and feel incredible.

A perfectly tailored jacket is more than just clothing—it's confidence, sophistication, and endless styling possibilities wrapped into one investment piece. Whether you choose a high street hero or designer indulgence, remember that the best jacket is the one that makes you stand taller, feel more confident, and expresses your personal style beautifully.

The key to building a successful tailored jacket wardrobe lies in understanding your body, lifestyle, and personal aesthetic whilst investing in quality pieces that will serve you for years to come. Start with one perfectly fitting blazer in a versatile colour, then build your collection gradually, always prioritising fit and quality over trends.

With the right knowledge, careful selection, and tools like Tellar to ensure perfect sizing, your tailored jacket collection will become the foundation of a sophisticated wardrobe that works as hard as you do—from Monday morning meetings to Saturday night dinners, and every stylish moment in between.