Not Your Boyfriend's Blazer

{My apologies in advance for the lack of pictures in this post. There seems to be a little glitch in uploading photos that I am now working day and night to solve. Well, not day and night but, you know. In lieu of photographic evidence, I've embedded some links. Click on them to see examples of what I am talking about. Oh, what's that you say? You want to know what I am talking about? Well, keep reading!}

Now that I work at a real-life grown-up job, I can tell you one thing: blazers are boring.

Lucky for us, though, the traditional blazer is getting all kinds of funky spins these days. It's not just broad shoulders and boxy cuts anymore. And blazers aren't just prep school or day-time office wear anymore either. Less formal cuts, like the currently ubiquitous boyfriend blazer, are perfect for days at the office, nights out on the town and lazy Saturdays, especially as the weather starts to turn a little crisp.

Looking to get into the boyfriend blazer trend yourself? (Because you should be, you know. All the cool kids are doing it.) Here are some tips to help you do it right.

Office Romance

The boyfriend blazer has a slouchy, voluminous cut, so balance it out with slimmer elements. For a day at the office, consider pairing your boyfriend blazer with a pencil skirt, tight shift dress or skinny trousers. To round out the top, experiment with layers, like a well-tailored feminine shirt or a peek-a-boo lace camisole.

Another great alternative for the office is a boyfriend cardigan. This will fit more slimly because of the fabric (try a luxe cashmere or thin cotton). The boyfriend cardigan is another good complement to a shift dress. You can also try pairing it with wide-leg trousers, if the fit is slim enough. Instead of always using the buttons, experiment with belts of all different widths to hold the cardigan closed, or use a colorful brooch.

Tu-nic, Too Nice

If your blazer is long enough (I would say skimming your bum and beyond qualifies), and if you are feeling particularly bold, you might consider wearing your blazer like a tunic over leggings. And if you are really having one of those extra-special, daredevil days, you might even consider wearing your boyfriend blazer over leather leggings. (One thing's for sure, your boyfriend would love it!) If leggings are a step too far, stick with a skinny trouser or jean.

Catch Me Casual

To take this style from work-day to weekend, and to really ramp up the 1980s vibe, layer your boyfriend blazer over your favorite faded band T-shirt and distressed jeans.

Or, throw on a boyfriend blazer instead of your favorite cardigan.

Or, mix styles and eras in perfect combination by layering a boyfriend blazer over a short, flirty dress. Just make sure the dress is longer than the blazer. For a more sultry, night-on-the-town look, pair your boyfriend blazer with a slinky cocktail dress and gladiator heels. Ooo-la-la!

Roll up the sleeves on your blazer to achieve the ultimate laid-back look.

If I do say so myself (and I do, of course), with looks like these you'll have all the help you need putting "boyfriend" in the boyfriend blazer.

Catch my drift?