WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?
REAL MEN REAL STYLE
Can I wear my suit jacket as a blazer jacket? Are blazer jackets and sports jackets interchangeable? To the man who doesn’t know any better these three classic menswear pieces all seem alike. But after this story, you'll know the exact difference.
01
A suit jacket is a jacket that is made with a matching pair of trousers. The suit jacket and trousers will always be made from same exact fabric. Among the three items, suit jackets are considered the most formal. Given its formal nature it follows that it will be the simplest among the three.
02
The blazer is a step lower than the suit jacket. It is a hybrid of sorts because it is more formal than a sports jacket but unlike the suit jacket, a blazer is not made with a matching pair of trousers. Blazers have a looser fit compared to suit jackets. They are also not as structured especially in the shoulder area.
03
Derivative of its name the sports jacket was originally the attire worn by a sporting man. The sports jacket’s original function affects its fit. A sports jacket should always fit loose enough to allow for layering underneath.
SPORTS JACKET
Formality
Least Formal
Pattern
Patterned
Lining
Partially Lined
Button Color
Same/Contrasting
Occasion
Casual Events
BLAZER JACKET
Formality
Less than suit
Pattern
Solid/Pinstripe
Lining
Partially Lined
Button Color
Contrasting
Occasion
Work, Semi-Formal
SUIT JACKET
Formality
Most Formal
Pattern
Solid
Lining
Fully Lined
Button Color
Same
Occasion
Wedding, Interviews