If I had to name one fashion item that is the most versatile of all, I would always choose a blazer. It's the sleekest, most classic style money can buy and it really does suit every single person, no matter what shape, what size or more importantly, what age.
I've had multiple questions on how to wear blazers in my 'Ask Laura' inbox recently.
The mighty blazer can be worn with pretty much anything and what's more, it can easily elevate any item you have, giving your overall ensemble an air of quintessential elegance. Bored of wearing jeans and a T-shirt? Wear a blazer and add ballet pumps. Want to quickly look authoritative in that meeting? Wear a blazer over a dress. Instant classic vibes, zero effort.
You can experiment with colours, too. If you keep the rest of your outfit a simple colour like black, an apple green blazer or even pink will pep up your look and make it more interesting.
Oversized blazers
One way of styling a blazer (and one I am personally very much into at the moment) is wearing an oversized style with leggings.
I find form-fitting, sculpting leggings like these from SPANX are best. They really pull in the leg, give you a snatched waist and offer your shape some definition. Recently, I wore these amazing leggings from TALA, as well as the brand's oversized blazer. I really loved the bold shoulder pads and the fact you can use the secret button at the wrist to create some ruching at the sleeves. I added ballet flats and simple gold jewellery, but a pair of trainers like these burgundy Golas would have worked well too.
Oversized blazers are great for throwing on, but also for hiding any areas you may be uncomfortable with. Since having children, my stomach isn't as flat as it was, and my hips are very 'womanly'. An oversized blazer subtly conceals areas that may be of concern, making one appear sleeker.
Classic tones
Camel and black are shades that never date and will also go with any colour palette in your wardrobe.
A black blazer with a white shirt is typical office attire that you will be wearing 30 years from now. A camel or tan blazer like this one from Sosandar is very on trend right now, super autumnal and creates a neutral base.
You can add jewellery, brooches and layer up with other items and there won't be any jarring clashes.
Structured Blazers
Blazers with a nipped-in waist, like this number by Mango, gives the impression of a sleek silhouette and can give a real hourglass look, particularly if teamed with tailored trousers. Also for a night out, you could wear a blazer with a camisole like this one from Lydia Millen's edit with Sinead Keary and jeans.
Just add heels, a great handbag and you've got yourself one chic outfit.
Layer
Blazers are amazing for layering. You can team cosier styles like this boyfriend version with generic white T-shirts, but wearing them over chunky knits can work too.
Teaming your blazer with a piece of cashmere like this V-neck top gives a regal look, and you can even wear them over dresses too. Just make sure the blazer isn't too long, as you may get swamped by the fabric.
Statement blazers
Not everyone wants to wear a dress to a party. Statement blazers are really having a moment right now.
Claudia Winkleman famously wore a Nadine Merabi glittery blazer on Strictly, and has never looked back.
It's a great alternative to a frock or skirt and will make you feel instantly dressed up.
Take away tips
All these suggestions will suit any woman of any age. Find a blazer cut that works for you and you will have so many outfit options. Try some on when you go shopping; see how you feel. My pet peeve though is super long sleeves. I always feel like I'm dressing up in my grandad's old suit jacket when I see that look! Tailored styles are always best.