Forget the Leather Jacket—These 5 Blazer Styles Will Look Most Chic with Your Jeans This Year
At Who What Wear UK, we openly express our appreciation for genuine wardrobe essentials; those select items that endure the changing trends and remain in your closet for years rather than just a few seasons. Very few pieces genuinely justify their existence, and blazers? They are, in our opinion, an indispensable component of a capsule wardrobe.
A true versatile item, a blazer's simple silhouette has allowed it to evolve over the years, adapting to the preferences and styles of different decades, which is why it has always held its place in fashion. Initially influenced by men's tailoring, Coco Chanel aimed to free women in the 1920s through soft tailoring and innovative design, resulting in the classic tweed jacket that remains a favorite among French fashion enthusiasts today. Since then, blazers have gained even greater cultural significance. By the late 1970s and early 1980s, Diane Keaton's portrayal of Annie Hall made the simple blazer-and-trousers combination seem effortlessly cool, shifting the vibe from post-war practicality to intellectual sophistication. The era of power dressing followed, with icons like Princess Diana and Grace Jones embracing the sculptural allure of sharply defined shoulder pads and the elegance of power suits. Fast forward to the present, and blazers continue to thrive. They can be effortlessly draped over your shoulders with jeans and a nice top or look sophisticated as part of a tailored suit, proving their versatility across various outfits.
This year has seen an abundance of blazers in every conceivable style, from the soft, oversized, almost avant-garde shape of The Frankie Shop’s Bea Blazer to the fitted versions worn by Kendall Jenner and Zendaya at the 2025 Met Gala. However, as a fashion editor, I always look to the future, particularly regarding the blazer trends expected in 2026. The runway shows have already provided some insights. From belted styles at Stella McCartney paired with matching tailored trousers to sharply cinched tailoring at Victoria Beckham—a nod to the ‘90s—designers are reaffirming the blazer's timeless appeal by introducing multiple iterations, indicating that in 2026, this tailored jacket will evolve beyond the classic lapelled design we are familiar with. Always aiming to stay ahead of trends, I've observed that some of the most stylish individuals on my social media feed are already early adopters of these new blazer styles. From collarless to belted options, they are demonstrating the practicality of these fashions, which will continue to be relevant in the upcoming year. So, without further delay, scroll down to explore the five major blazer trends set to dominate next year.
The Five Biggest Blazer Trends of 2026
1. **Collarless Blazers**
Style Notes: I couldn't discuss 2026 blazer trends without highlighting the collarless designs that have proliferated this year. True to their name, today's lapel-less styles pay homage to Chanel's fitted, waist-skimming shapes from the 1950s (the iconic pink version worn by Jackie Kennedy-Onassis during a pivotal moment in history). However, modern iterations have been updated with a distinctly contemporary twist. Balancing formal office attire with evening elegance, the new generation of collarless blazers exudes understated luxury. Maybe it's their sleek silhouette or the way they are often simply accessorized, but their polished edge resonates with the aesthetics of The Row and the Phoebe Philo era at Celine, adding refinement to everything from a flowing maxi dress to your favorite straight-leg jeans.
**Shop the Trend:**
- **ZARA**: Fitted Blazer With Shoulder Pads
- **COS**: Collarless Wool-Blend Blazer
- **ALIGNE**: Daphne Waisted Blazer
- **Ronny Kobo**: Finley Crepe Jacket
- **Tove**: Moya Virgin Wool Blazer
2. **Funnel-Neck Blazers**
Style Notes: While funnel-neck jackets were popular in 2025, funnel-neck blazers are set to take the spotlight in 2026. Made from soft leather or practical canvas, these blazers will keep your neck warm during the UK winter while also serving as a sleek, architectural piece for spring. The London-based brand Groes’ Kate blazer has gained popularity on TikTok for its sophisticated style and versatility, enhancing the trend's momentum. The allure lies in its hybrid nature, functioning as a practical jacket, sharp tailoring, and a minimalist statement. It beautifully frames the face, elevating even the most basic jeans and tee looks, providing that subtle fashion vibe without appearing overly forced.
**Shop the Trend:**
- **Reiss**: Wool-Blend Wrapover Blazer in Black
- **ASOS DESIGN**: Funnel Neck Wrap Blazer
- **Massimo Dutti**: Wool Blend Three-Button Blazer
- **McQueen**: Wool and Mohair Jacket
3. **Longline Blazer Dresses
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Forget the Leather Jacket—These 5 Blazer Styles Will Look Most Chic with Your Jeans This Year
Different from typical blazers.
