No longer reserved for the boardroom, blazers and slacks are core basics in every woman’s closet. Available in tons of cuts, colours and fabrics, we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to picking styles that stand out from the crowd. 

head to toe

 

Photography, © Andréanne Gauthier

Oversize, boxy cuts on a blazer give an edge to a traditionally conservative workwear piece, while tailored trousers boast endless versatility. A sky-blue shirt and matching loafers create a cohesive look from top to bottom, with the benefit of adding a cheerful pop of colour.

Rib Racer Back Basic Cami TANK TOP in White, $38, livom.ca. Hudson North Modern SHIRT, $55, thebay.com. Double-Breasted Plaid BLAZER in Checks, $100, reitmans.com. Motel Colourful Wide-Leg PANTS in Charcoal, $100, simons.ca. Neiva Mary Jane Leather SHOES in Sky Blue, $240, maguireshoes.com.

vested interest

 

Photography, © Andréanne Gauthier

 

Blazer vests are great layering pieces that are easy to work into your ward­robe year-round. Wear them over knits in cooler months and when spring hits, swap in a silky blouse. 

Cable Knit SWEATER in White, $295, Mensy Sleeveless Linen VEST in White, $350, Linen Cargo PANTS in White, $295, michaelkors.ca. Roissa Sterling Silver EARRINGS, $38, Norio Gold-Plated BRACELET, $32, horacejewelry.com.

tip-top trio

 

Photography, © Andréanne Gauthier

A modern take on the pinstripe suit, this blazer, trouser and wrap top set looks sleek worn together and is just as fashion­able as separates. The vertical stripe pattern is universally flattering, elongating your figure and giving the illusion of height.

Textured Stripe Wrap Sleeveless VEST in Cream Stripe, $100, Textured Stripe One-Button Long BLAZER, $190, Textured Stripe High-Waisted Tapered Ankle PANTS in Cream Stripe, $100, rw-co.com. Darwin GLASSES in Black, $150, unifiedeyewear.com. Antoinette Sterling Silver Chain NECKLACE, $38, boutiquesoha.com. Jessa Flex Embossed Leather MULES, $178, michaelkors.ca.

pastel perfect

 

Photography, © Andréanne Gauthier

Striking the perfect balance, this loose-fitting blazer with padded shoulders provides an androgynous silhouette, while the dreamy lilac colour is undeniably feminine. A suit in blush, mint or powder blue would impart the same playful charm. 

Classic Linen SHIRTS in White and Lavender, $265 each, whitneylinen.com. BLAZER in Purple, $75, High-Waisted Pleated PANTS in Purple, $35, hm.com/ca. Strada Gold-Plated RINGS, $50 each, horacejewelry.com.

forever green

 

Photography, © Andréanne Gauthier

Donning the traditional two-piece suit in an eye-catching colour gives a polished look that doesn’t skimp on personality. A second structuredblazer in a different texture takes the place of a coat for
a chic layered ensemble.

Poly Flowy Open Long BLAZER in Cardamom Seed, $170, Poly Flowy Mid-Rise Straight PANTS in Cardamom Seed, $100, rw-co.com. Mensy Linen BLAZER in Lime, $425, michaelkors.ca. Autumn Chunky Gold-Plated Retro Hoop EARRINGS, $59, pilgrim.ca.

short of it

 

Photography, © Andréanne Gauthier

This faux-leather vest and shorts combo turns the idea of a stuffy suit on its head. This fun fit, complete with a bell-sleeve blouse and neon purse, creates a standout look for after-work drinks or date night.

BLOUSE with Drawstring Cuffs in Light Beige, $55, hm.com/ca. Kallie Leather VEST in Bone, $375, Marlene Leather SHORTS in Bone, $375, lamarquecollection.com. Le 31 Solid Wool TIE in Black, $49, simons.ca. Heidi Vegan Leather PURSE in Greenjuice, $120, designlambert.com.

pink persuasion

 

Photography, © Andréanne Gauthier

 

The oh-so-cute floral embroidery and bold bubble-gum pink hue make this a blazer to remember. For the particularly daring, donning matching trousers is a true style statement, but this topper will shine just as brightly paired with a neutral dress, pencil skirt or jeans. 

Slim-Fit Merino Wool TURTLENECK in Light Pink, $89, cos.com. Poplin SHIRT in White, $55, reitmans.com. Jacquard Single-Breasted BLAZER in Orchid Pink, $348, scotch-soda.com. Mine Recycled Silver-Plated Chunky Huggie Hoop EARRINGS, $44, pilgrim.ca.