Shopping Your Closet: 3 Ways to Wear a Blazer

[I used to show you how to pull off runway trends in the series "Rock the Look." In this new series, I'll be taking a different item you probably already have in your closet each week and showing you three new ways to wear it. After all, the best shopping tip anyone will give you is to only buy pieces that work with something you already own. Last week I glammed up the basic black tee, and this week we're moving on to blazers.]

You probably have a blazer.

Your mom made you buy it and now the only time you pull it out of your closet is for job interviews and funerals. Other than that, it just hangs there and takes up space that would be better suited for a new pair of sweats. But your basic black blazer (like the one pictured right, from Old Navy) can be very stylish and versatile!

Wear it during the day to your internship for a mature (but not “old”) look, or to dress up a pair of jeans on the weekend.

Here are three new ideas for rocking a black (or whatever color you might have) blazer.

1) Polished & Professional. At work, you want to look put together without dressing like you’re 30 years old. The blazer is perfect. Just pair it with a basic fitted shirt (like a tank) and pants that don’t match exactly (to avoid looking like Hilary Clinton in a pantsuit). Then style it with fun jewelry or a belt, a hot pair of heels and you’ve got a new, go-to work look! Click on the image to view shopping info:

2) Casual Chic. When you’re heading out for a day of shopping or errands, it’s easy to fall into the rut of jeans, t-shirt, flip flops (or Uggs, depending on the weather). By throwing on a blazer, it’s easy to look chic while stocking up on Chef Boyardee and Ramen. Wear it unbuttoned with rolled up skinny jeans, a white tee, and basic heels (OK, you can wear flats if you’re really feeling lazy). North Face fleeces and hooded sweatshirts – you’ve met you’re match!

3) Nighttime Glam. We’re in that weird season between summer and spring right now, where it’s too warm for sweaters but not quite warm enough for tank tops. This problem is easily solved with a black blazer – wearing one over your sparkly tank top or mini dress will make you look glamorous and stylish when you’re out on the town. And your boyfriend will be happy that he won’t have to give you his!