11 Easy Ways to Style a Cropped Blazer

It's about to become a staple in your closet.

Blazers are a business casual staple in every person's closet. While oversized blazers are often the go-to for a chic street style look, a cropped design is a playful alternative that works for casual and formal occasions alike. The style rose in popularity last year when several iterations of the garment popped up on the runway, and the trend is still going strong. Designers like Christian Siriano, Khaite, and Patrick McDowell all featured their version of a cropped blazer in their Fall/Winter 2024 collections.

Stylist and fashion consultant Beverly Osemwenkhae says that although cropped blazers are a “fashion-forward piece” that can be a “great staple for your wardrobe,” it’s important to consider the proportions of your body before purchasing. Those with larger busts may find that some cropped blazers don’t flatter their body shape as Osemwenkhae explains that the short length can create a “boxy” silhouette.

Osemwenkhae also says it’s important to “pay attention to where the blazer hits along the body,” which can fall anywhere from right under the bust to at the waistline. A shorter cut will be the most eye-catching choice but can limit your styling options to a top that is cropped to the same length as your blazer. “A long crop blazer which hits under the bust but above the belly button will usually be easiest to style versus one that stops right under or above the bust,” says Osemwenkhae.

If you're considering adding a cropped blazer to your wardrobe, scroll ahead to discover 11 easy ways you can style a cropped blazer.

As a Set

If you want to keep the classic vibes of a traditional blazer, create a set by pairing a cropped design with high-waisted trousers in the same color. This is a chic and easy way to try out the trend without moving too far out of your comfort zone. Complete the look with anything from a tube top and mules to a tucked-in tee and platform sneakers.

With Leather Pants

Leather pants are considered a statement piece, but can easily be an everyday garment when styled with a cropped blazer. Mixing earthy shades instead of opting for an all-black look will emphasize the textures of each piece for a playful outfit that still feels sophisticated. For a summer take on this look, swap pants for a leather mini skirt or paperbag shorts.

With Jeans

A blazer and jeans are a timeless combo that can be adapted to suit all style preferences. Gravitate towards a grungy look? Reach for baggy ripped jeans and a cropped blazer. Prefer a more classic style? You can’t go wrong with straight-legged jeans and a cropped double-breasted blazer.

Add Some Bling

If you’re not one to shy away from a bold look, reach for a cropped blazer that has a little bit of bling to it. A crystal trim will emphasize the short length of your blazer and add a glamorous touch to designs in more neutral hues. Complement the statement piece by pairing it with classic garments, such as high-waisted jeans or a midi skirt.

With a Mini Skirt

Another eye-catching way to style a cropped blazer is to pair it with a mini skirt. The two-piece ensemble gives off the same effortlessly chic vibes as a blazer dress and can be accessorized to suit nearly any occasion. Go full glam with sheer tights and pointed-toe heels or add a pair of sneakers for a preppy daytime look.

With a Midi Skirt

If pairing a cropped blazer with a mini skirt feels too revealing to you, consider swapping it for a modest midi skirt. A fitted midi will still give off a sultry vibe but create a more polished look when paired with a matching bralette and kitten heels.

Over a Maxi Dress

Add some dimension to a maxi dress by pairing it with a cropped blazer. The short length will define your waistline, complementing a flowy skirt for a well-balanced look. For a night out, accessorize with a pair of chic ankle boots or dress it down with sneakers.

As an Extra Layer

Cropped blazers may not be a first choice for a day at the office, but can be work-ready when worn as an extra layer. Pair a cropped blazer with wide-leg trousers and a vest for a sophisticated look that has just the right amount of coverage. We recommend sticking to a solid color for this outfit as it feels put together and can be elevated further by statement accessories.

With Shorts

An ensemble made for the summer, high-waisted shorts perfectly contrast a long-sleeve blazer for an elevated street style look. Add an edgy touch by wearing your blazer as a standalone top with platform shoes or keep it casual by opting for a short-sleeve blazer over a bralette.

In A Print

For a look that fully embraces the playful nature of a cropped blazer, opt for one in a bold print. This style will look amazing in everything from houndstooth to pinstripes. Having trouble finding bottoms that pair well with your blazer? Matching pants are a no-fuss option that will make for a more striking ensemble.

With a Bodysuit

Cropped blazers can fall anywhere from right under the bust to at the waistline, but if you’d prefer not to show too much skin consider pairing yours with a bodysuit. It provides ample coverage and if worn in a metallic shade or vibrant hue can elevate a cropped black blazer for a sleek yet sultry ensemble.

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