A blazer has become an essential part of any discerning gentleman's wardrobe as, thanks to their flexibility and inherent good quality, they can make even a simple outfit of jeans and a t-shirt look sharp and sophisticated. Not quite as formal as a suit, but smarter than a regular outer jacket, a blazer is the idea middle ground for any man looking for one easy way to instantly improve his wardrobe. And the best thing is, buying a blazer needn't be difficult either, as long as you know what you are looking for.

You might be wondering what the difference is between a blazer and a plain suit jacket. Essentially a blazer is defined as any formal jacket that has sleeves and lapels, and is worn with unmatching trousers. However, depending on where you live, a blazer could be considered to be any formal jacket without flaps over its pockets, or any suit jacket made of slightly softer, heavyweight fabric. Simple touches like gold buttons on white trim also usually indicate a blazer rather than a suit jacket.

When it comes to buying one though however, you should approach it initially as you would approach buying a suit. Either get yourself measured beforehand or visit a suit shop or tailor and ask if they could take down your measurements. Once you know your chest size (which is taken under the armpits and across the chest) you can start looking for a blazer of that size. If you are relatively tall, you may also need a blazer with extra-long arms instead of regular, but that will be obvious once you try a few on. Remember that you should be able to see about half an inch of shirt cuff beyond the blazer sleeve if it fits properly; any more and the sleeves are too short.

Compared to a suit, there are fewer variables to choose from when picking a blazer. The biggest concern should be the colour. Think about what occasions you will wear the blazer for and with what colour of trousers. If it is for everyday use, then a neutral charcoal grey is probably the most versatile. Also, the type of fabric will not dictate its level of formality, but also usually the cost. For everyday use look for quite a thin fabric but, for a more formal look, find a thick material like wool. Whatever fabric you choose, you should always dry-clean your blazer and never attempt to wash it yourself. Not only doesn't dry-cleaning keep it looking fresh and new, but it will also help your blazer keep its shape after excessive wear.

Another consideration should definitely be how many pockets you would like. Again, a single-breasted blazer is slightly less formal and more common version, but double-breasted mens blazers will give a more important and formal look.

Once you have chosen the perfect blazer for you, try it on in the shop with the short of outfit you had in mind and make sure it feels comfortable. Even if the cut's almost perfect, take it to a tailor afterwards and have them tweak it until it is the most comfortable item of clothing you own.