The Blazer: The Story of an Icon

Due to the overwhelming response to my post on A Brief History of the Bass Weejun a few months back, I wanted to continue this tradition by bringing you interesting tidbits of sartorial history.  I think this stuff is way cool and love researching it; hopefully you'll learn a thing or two along the way.  Let's begin with the basics - the blazer.


There is nothing as quintessential to every man's wardrobe than the classic navy blazer.  While the modern blazer comes in a variety of cuts, patterns, and styles the original came in one fit and color.  Here's a hint: it wasn't blue.

May Bumps Garden Party at Lady Margaret Boat Club

The term originated from the crimson jackets worn by members of the Lady Margaret Boat Club of St. John's College, Cambridge.  The 'blaze' of vibrant color gave rise to the term blazer, which became popular club dress throughout 19th century Britain.  By the 1880s striped blazers, usually in club colors, gained popularity in cricket, tennis, and boating.

Early American blazers
 via Dressing the Man by Alan Flusser

By the 1920s, style savvy American men sported nautical blue and white pinstripe and solid color 'sport coats' to events and during leisure activities.  Double breasted versions appeared as well, influenced by the reefer jackets worn by the British navy, similar to the modern pea coat.  By the 30s a variety of other solid colors became fashionable from pastel blues to hunter greens, yet navy established itself as the preferred work to weekend color of choice.

Image via Rugby

While today the navy blazer still reigns supreme, heritage inspired jackets are making a comeback, such as this cricket jacket in the Rugby fall 2011 collection.  No matter two or three buttons, madras or tweed, crimson or navy, the blazer is a classic and will continue to define men's style for generations to come.