Sport Coat vs. Blazer vs. Suit Jacket: Everything You Need To Know

Putting together a formal or semi-formal outfit can sometimes be a daunting task for men. Due to the fact that formal jackets and trousers have a tendency to look very similar, knowing when to wear what kind of garment can get a bit muddled if you are not well versed in the differences and specific characteristics of each.

The three most common coats used in semi-formal or formal attire are sport coats, blazers, and suit jackets. While these three pieces do appear pretty close in style and formality, there are some key distinctions that separate them from one another. Keep reading for Next Luxury’s guide on everything you need to know about the sport coat, blazer, and suit jacket so that you can look your best at any event. 

Sport Coat

Originating in the 19th century, sport coats were first intended to be used during outdoor sports or sporting events. Whether it was fishing or hunting, the sport coat allowed for a man to look sharp all while still wearing something that was both functional and warm.

One of the most noticeable distinctions that can be seen in a sport coat is the patterned cloth. Though each coat might come in different materials and textures, the patterned print is always a guarantee with a sport coat. While a sport coat can be dressed up with some nice slacks and a tie, it is best suited for more semi-formal or business casual settings. 

Blazer

Though it is nearly identical to a sport coat in shape and style, a blazer can best be defined by its solid color as opposed to a patterned one. Traditionally, blazers are seen as a regal sign of exclusivity, most often associated with some sort of membership when they first became popular.

Another distinguishing factor on a blazer are its buttons. On all true and authentically designed blazers, the buttons that run down the front of the coat are metal, creating an eye-catching appeal with some added shine. 

Suit Jacket

Perhaps the most formal and easy-to-understand option, a suit jacket is exactly what the name suggests: the jacket of a suit. Being that suit jackets tend to come with matching trousers, this is the easiest jacket to style since it pretty much comes pre-determined when you buy it. While some men attempt to wear a suit jacket as a sport coat, it really only works on rare occasions when the suit jacket has a patterned fabric and a more bold appearance. 

When To Wear Each

While blazers and sport coats can both be worn in a variety of semi-formal or business casual settings, sport coats are definitely the more versatile of the two. Though you should certainly have both options in your wardrobe, you might find yourself being more drawn to the sport coat, being that it has a slightly more modern touch while blazers can wind up looking a bit too traditional or stuffy when they are not styled properly.

Suit jackets of course are the fanciest of them all, and they should be reserved for special events or formal occasions the majority of the time. As stated above, while you can occasionally find a way to style a suit jacket as a sport coat, suit jackets look best with their accompanying trousers.