How to Wear a Blazer with a Dress

Co-authored by Cassandra Sethi

Last Updated: November 17, 2024

Blazers look great over dresses and help to add warmth and style to your outfit. If you’re in the mood for a bold look, choose a blazer in a contrasting color. If you’re in a dressier mood, opt for a blazer that blends into your dress for a streamlined, classy look. You can even add accessories to your outfit that bring interest and personality to your look. Don’t be afraid to be creative and express your unique style! Here are 12 fashionable ideas to get you started.

1

Wear a loose blazer if your dress has sleeves.

Download Article

This helps the dress sit more smoothly and prevents wrinkles. If you prefer the look of tight sleeves, opt for a sleeveless dress, as this avoids wrinkling.^{[1]
X
Research source}
- Dresses with tight-fitting sleeves work well with blazers, as the sleeves don't tend to bunch up and wrinkle.
- Don't be afraid to play around with the cut of the dress. Don't just stick to fitted dresses!^{[2]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Cassandra Sethi
  Personal Stylist & Image Consultant
  
  Expert Interview}

2

Pick a blazer in a contrasting color to your dress for a bold look.

Download Article

This is a great way to make both your dress and your blazer stand out. This striking and elegant look is perfect for all occasions. Black and white, navy and red, and yellow and blue are great contrasting options.^{[3]
X
Research source}
- This outfit normally looks best with a plain blazer and dress, as patterns can make it look too busy.

3

Combine a patterned blazer with a plain dress to add interest.

Download Article

This is a great way to dress up a simple dress. Experiment with patterns such as stripes, polka dots, floral prints, and geometric shapes. Be bold and express your own personal style!^{[4]
X
Research source}
- A red and white striped blazer over a black dress would make a great streetwear outfit.
- If you prefer, wear a plain blazer with a patterned dress for a similar look.

4

Pair a blazer with an identical colored dress for a sleek, formal look.

Download Article

This is a great option if you want an outfit for a business event or a formal occasion. Ensure that the blazer is the exact same color as your dress, as it can look untidy if they are slightly different shades. A black dress and blazer is a safe option, as you don't have to worry about different shades.
- A tailored navy dress and blazer with heels would be an elegant outfit for attending a wedding.

5

Combine a fitted blazer with a knee-length dress for a formal look.

Download Article

This outfit is perfect for dinner parties, job interviews, and other formal situations. Choose a tailored blazer that accentuates the shape of your body and wear it over a formal dress. Knee-length (or longer) dresses are most appropriate for formal occasions.^{[5]
X
Research source}
- Fitted blazers tend to look best with straight-cut dresses, as loose-fitting dresses can wrinkle under a tailored blazer.

6

Wear a loose blazer with your favorite dress to create a casual outfit.

Download Article

A loose blazer is a great way to add a warm layer to your favorite comfy dress. Wear a loose sleeveless dress or choose a dress that has slimmer sleeves than your blazer to prevent wrinkling.^{[6]
X
Research source}
- A loose, fluffy blazer paired with a t-shirt dress would be a great brunch outfit for a Spring day.
- Invest in a knit blazer for a cozy look in the fall and winter.^{[7]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Cassandra Sethi
  Personal Stylist & Image Consultant
  
  Expert Interview}
- For casual cool, scrunch up or cuff the blazer sleeves.^{[8]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Cassandra Sethi
  Personal Stylist & Image Consultant
  
  Expert Interview}

7

Combine a sleeveless blazer with a long-sleeved dress for a relaxed look.

Download Article

This combination is a good casual option for weekends or catching up with friends. Wear your sleeveless blazer over your favorite dress to create an on-trend look.^{[9]
X
Research source}
- For extra comfort, opt for a blazer with a hood.

8

Wear heels with your outfit to create a formal look.

Download Article

Heels are an easy way to make your outfit look more glamorous and formal. Shoes with an elevated heel can help to accentuate your height and showcase your curves. Any type of heels will work with a blazer and dress, including stilettos, heeled boots, and closed-toe heels.^{[10]
X
Research source}
- Wedges are a great option if you want a comfortable pair of shoes, whilst still maintaining a glamorous look.

9

Pair your dress and blazer with flat shoes for a relaxed look.

Download Article

Ballet flats, flip flops, sandals, or sneakers can all make your outfit more comfortable and casual. These are a great option if you are wanting to do lots of walking or if you are wanting a streetwear look.
- If you want to wear comfortable shoes to a formal event, opt for ballet flats, as these are the most formal flat option.

10

Carry a handbag to contain your personal items.

Download Article

A bag that’s the same color as your dress or blazer can help you blend in. Alternatively, choose a bright or sparkly bag if you want it to stand out. Clutches, satchel, cross-body purses, and oversized-handbags are all popular, on-trend options.^{[11]
X
Research source}
- If you don't have a bag that matches your outfit, search thrift stores to find an inexpensive and unique option.

11

Add a beanie for a relaxed look.

Download Article

This is a great comfortable option for cold winter days. Pair a loose dress with your favorite blazer and a beanie to create a great streetwear outfit. If it's too hot to wear a beanie, consider wearing a straw hat instead. ^{[12]
X
Research source}
- If you don't have a beanie, purchase one online or from your favorite department store.

12

Wear jewelry to add interest to your outfit.

Download Article

This is a great way to dress up your outfit and allows you to showcase your own personal style. For example, if you have a bold personality, consider wearing bright, chunky jewelry. Alternatively, if you have a more reserved personality, try dainty gold or silver jewelry.^{[13]
X
Research source}
- Bright, sparkly jewelry would look great with a black blazer and dress.
- Simple silver and gold jewelry items look elegant and classy with all outfits.