Washington’s men are known for their suit collections. And indeed, the pairing of slim-fit slacks and a sharp blazer make for a successful office wardrobe—but that’s not the only place to rock the perfect jacket. After hours, this workhorse piece can also lend extra polish to more casual staples such as polos, hoodies, denim, and shorts, whether you’re dashing down the terminal at Reagan or kicking back at a rooftop happy hour.
First and foremost: how to choose the blazer itself. Lightweight fabrics such as linen or cotton keep you cool on humid days and help with the high-low transition, thanks to a looser, more relaxed structure. Look for a subtle pattern to add detail. The rest of the ensemble should follow suit in fabric and color; keep the blazer the focal point by sticking to solids.
We put together three looks to help you transition your blazer from the office to your summer adventures.
Travel Attire
Ludlow navy sport coat in herringbone Italian linen, $328 at J.Crew; Summer-weight melon chinos, $98 at Bonobos; Threads for Thought pullover hoodie, $42 at Nordstrom.
Rooftop Happy Hour
Rag & Bone Phillips printed cotton suit jacket, $450 at Rag & Bone; Joe’s classic straight-leg jeans in Dakota Wash, $169 at Nordstrom; Contrast collar piqué short-sleeve polo, $49 at Gant.
Weekend on the Coast
Gant Rugger Bird’s Eye unconstructed blazer, $390 at Gant; Lemon Maddox shorts, $59.50 at Club Monaco; Classic piqué polo, $42.50 at J.Crew.
