What, you ask, is a "mom blazer"? It is, of course, a blazer, casually worn as outerwear, most likely with some light-wash jeans and loafers (un-ironically), and never as part of a suit (even if it was sold as one). Now that you know what it is, it's time to unleash your inner '80s Tom Cruise and embrace this powerful piece.
Okay, so maybe the kind of blazer we're talking about is a little more Cindy Crawford than Tom Cruise: It's structured and boxy, a muted color, potentially double-breasted, and almost always layered over a classic white T-shirt. It's the perfect blend of The W olf of Wall Street and Julia Roberts' early '90s airport swag — but if you need some convincing it's just as cool in 2016, look to Bella Hadid and Rihanna (who prefers to wear hers as a dress), both of whom have embraced the trend in style. Pair any of the 10 options ahead with a merlot lip, gold hoops, and some fresh white kicks, and you'll be convinced this piece is made for so much more than the carpool line.
To ease you into the look, we thought we'd start with something far more fun than frumpy and formal. This short navy jacket with a bright-red collar and piped pockets is the perfect way to dress up jeans and a T-shirt.
Carven Short Garbadine Jacket, $545.67 $272.83, available at Carven.
This is very Chloë Sevigny circa 1999 in Downtown Manhattan. Think boyfriend jeans, oversized black sunglasses, a messy shag haircut, and plenty of attitude.
Monki Tailored Double Breasted Blazer, $64.70, available at ASOS.
This printed option has a relaxed fit. Keep it as a matching set with coordinating bottoms and you've got a laid-back suit for any occasion.
Mango Floral Print Blazer, $119 $59.99, available at Mango.
If you think a blazer isn't high-fashion, think again. This belted white jacket is crisp, clean, and will add an element of sophistication to your wardrobe before and after Labor Day.
& Other Stories Belt Detail Blazer, $166.36 $50.57, available at & Other Stories.
When a gray or black blazer just won't do, enliven your look with an olive green option, instead. This blazer is one part Princess Di, one part Bella Hadid on the red carpet with nothing underneath — and we're into it in a big way.
Paul Smith Women's Olive Green Merino Wool Blazer, $675, available at Paul Smith.
Wear this bubblegum-pink option with wide-leg trousers and loafers for an anti- Miami Vice aesthetic.
Gucci Leather Two-button Jacket, $4,500, available at Gucci.
Okay, okay. So this Jacquemus masterpiece with split sleeves and a string detail isn't the most practical. But if a proper mom jacket is just too structured for you, try a more directional option, like this navy blue cape/blazer.
Jacquemus 'La Veste Noeuds' Jacket, $637.07 $445.95, available at Farfetch.
It can be tricky to find fast fashion tailoring that fits well. This versatile black blazer (with some major statement sleeves) is one of those rare exceptions.
Loeil Harris Bell Sleeve Jacket, $199, available at Loeil.
The classic blazer is made modern with a slim lapel, a jacquard print, and piping details. Wear this over leather pants, cropped jeans, or matching trousers and a tucked-in blouse for effortless, everyday chic.
ASOS Longerline Blazer in Metallic Jacquard, $98, available at ASOS.
The ultimate mom blazer, this double-breasted offering from Topshop Unique is chic, sharp, and best paired with flared jeans, ankle boots, and white tee.
Topshop Unique Wycliffe Blazer, $500, available at Topshop.
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