It wasn’t long ago that a blazer was squarely reserved for the office — or a very important bank meeting. But these days, blazers, trousers, and even waistcoats can serve as casual weekend-wear when styled as such. But while it’s not exactly hard to dress up a pantsuit with heels and a button-down, dressing down your corporate separates isn’t always so intuitive.
The key is to start with suiting pieces that feel inherently more casual than, say, a wool-and-silk tuxedo jacket: Look for a single-breasted blazer with relaxed lapels in a fabric like cotton or linen. Or opt for a straight- or wide-leg trouser that pools at the bottom, rather than something tapered or slim-fit — and then resist the urge to pair them together just to head to the farmer’s market. Instead, grab a pair of baggy jeans and sneakers to complement your blazer, or get more use out of your most-worn ribbed tank when you pair it with loose trousers. The goal is to look insouciant, not stuffy.
Tailored Wool Blazer
This refined wool blazer can make even the most casual errand run (read: in sweats and an oversized tee) feel a little more elevated. Add a baseball cap for a true weekend feel.
Button-Down Shirt
Looking for a suiting shirt with a twist? This emerald green button-down boasts diagonal pleats and a wide collar — and it comes with matching pants, if that’s your vibe.
Mini Skirt Suit
A surefire way to make something feel more casual? Buy it in a bright hue like Ganni’s blue curaçao mini. Style it with Mary Janes and an oversized sweater until true spring arrives.
Wool Pants
Keep in mind that it’s easier to dress down a pair of trousers in a lighter color than a traditional black pair. A cropped white tee makes these pants a great off-duty option.
Cropped Blazer
A cropped tweed blazer may not feel like a spring go-to, but pair it with a mini skirt or lettuce-hem flares and it’ll feel like a surprisingly chic option for transitional days.
Linen Vest
Throw this longline linen vest atop any other spring outfit and it becomes more elevated instantly thanks to its peak lapels and double-breasted closure.
Pencil Skirt
A pencil skirt becomes weekend-appropriate when you style it with a crop top and mules — and then head straight to an alfresco lunch.
Oversized Blazer
The oversized, menswear-inspired fit on this wool-blend blazer makes it a great spring layer for every jeans-and-tee look. The removable shoulder pads are just a bonus.
Linen Trousers
You’d be surprised at how low you could get the cost-per-wear on these pleated linen trousers.
Trouser Shorts
We’re a few seasons past the pinnacle of Bermuda short saturation, but this year’s the perfect time to ease back into the naturally informal trend.
Midi Skirt Suit
If a skirt suit is more your speed, this pleated plaid style comes with an oversized belt buckle and a matching blazer.
Flared Trousers
The flare pant is enjoying a resurgence of late, and this gray pair from NYC’s The Frankie Shop straddles the line between work and play perfectly.
Houndstooth Trousers
Size up on these houndstooth-print pants for a less tailored, more ’90s-inspired low-waisted fit.
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