Help me find a formal blazer like this One from Eileen fisher - but cheaper?

[Likereally]

Hello,

I am looking for a formal work blazer which is comfortable, looks smart and is slightly shorter in length. Not cropped though, sitting on top of hips you could say? Around that length?

I came across the following:
https://www.eileenfisher.com/washable-flex-ponte-notch-collar-blazer/F4TJH-J5613.html?dwvar_F4TJH-J5613_color=001

It is close at the shoulders and widens out slightly at the hem which I really like the idea of, and it seems to have excellent reviews, but is waaaay off budget.

Has anyone seen any that are similar to this?

I’d like to have one in black at least, but open to other styles which give a formal look.

It looks formal but sooo practical and comfortable.

Thanks!

The only thing I am unsure of is the fabric… I don't want it to look plasticky, and I am unsure of its breathability?

M&S Blazer

M&S have one that looks very similar in stock. It is 100% polyester but that pretty much standard for any blazer at any price pint these days.

How about this one - it’s also made from a ponte fabric

https://www.marksandspencer.com/jersey-single-breasted-blazer/p/clp23013612?color=GREEN#intid=pid_pg1pip48g4r4c3

If you want something breathable you will need to go for linen or wool and pay a bit more.

Do you work in the US, or the UK?

The thing is, Eileen Fisher is a peculiarly American company whose suiting can seem very bland in a UK context.

I can’t comment if you’re in the US, but if you’re in the UK, rather than prescribing the exact style and cut of jacket you want, I’d suggest being guided by what contemporary brands within your budget are producing at any given moment. That way you won’t end up looking strangely dated in your work style.

@TheLongRider @Newmeagain thank you for the suggestions!

@Newmeagain I am not sure where to start to be honest, I want a blazer that looks good thrown on a dress, that doesn’t look like a blazer that only goes with a suit?

@SpecialMilkMonitor thank you for that insight!

I am in the UK, starting a new job and wanting one or two formal-ish blazers that I can throw over skirts or dresses.

my budget is around £100? A bit more if perfect?

I would like to be comfortable so nothing too tailored but breathability is important too.

Try Boden?

https://www.boden.com/products/marylebone-ponte-blazer-black

I got something like you are describing for a wedding that was from romans.
www.roman.co.uk/jackets/blazers?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=18470231467&gbraid=0AAAAACsLkkJwVSCqen7SZWXrGEyKlJvqX&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIr7G54o2UjwMVfZFQBh0opiqmEAAYASAAEgLds_D_BwE

Ok. You could probably buy your entire new work wardrobe from Uniqlo : C, here:

https://www.uniqlo.com/uk/en/women/special-collaboration/uniqlo-c?path=%2C%2C107393%2C

Jackets included. Crisp, clean, modern shapes, all designed to mix and match. (And a very much better style guide than an outdated US brand.)

(Realising that link doesn’t take you to any plain black jackets. Will you be in court, or similar? If not you won’t actually need plain black - which is difficult to mix with other colours.)

If you like Eileen Fisher there's often a lot on eBay. I love their stuff because the petite ranges are excellent, and the clothes last forever.

I don't mind being "strangely dated" 😀

I agree that Uniqlo is a good option for simple modern pieces that are not too expensive.

Sorry I think the EF is an odd shape and even very unflattering on the model, I can’t imagine anyone looking good in that shape! The Boden one someone else suggested is 100x better IMO.

@Likereally ive just clicked on your link. At the moment it’s half price. And as a new customer it’s offering 15% off!!

Try Crew Clothing. I've just returned one that was in the sale. It was cotton but just not what I was looking for.

Oh no that blazer is terrible. Try Zara when the autumn collection comes out.

https://www.reiss.com/shop/feat-sale-gender-women-productaffiliation-blazers-0?p=1#0

Reiss usually has a selection of blazers at different price points.

Thank you so much for the feedback and the suggestions!

@TeaAndStrumpets I bought a longish blazer from the brand from eBay, and it was so comfortable, and felt very easy to wear while still giving me a presentable appearance!

@Myjobisridiculous unfortunately, there is no discount on the black version!

I will look into Uniqlo, crew, Boden and Reiss. Zara too.

I also think it’s so hard to shop online when you can’t see the fabrics 😔

It does pay to really interrogate the details provided online!

I always go straight to the fabric information. Then enlarge every photo of the garment in question. And study the video to see how it moves.

Provenance, and the general tenor of the website can often indicate whether the brand is aiming to offer a superior product, something completely average, or just throw away rubbish.

But in the end it comes down to getting to know different brands and assessing which meet your particular standards and expectations.

I vote for Uniqlo too. Excellent value, pieces wear well and last - plus they look modern and understated.

Another vote for Uniqlo here. Even have a look at the men’s section. I think Boden is cut really badly and the quality doesn’t reflect the price.

Wa
Wallis are worth a look

I always used to buy shirts and formal work wear for my wife from 2 go to places (that I used for shirts and suits). In no particular order they were Thomas Pink shirts, and TM Lewins. But she's been ill for 6 years and I've stopped buying for her (she doesn't work any longer I'm afraid)..... So I had a look at those places again and actually really struggled to find anything to suggest - which is slightly depressing.

Saw this and thought it I'd suggest it - I've not seen any suggestions from traditional tailoring firms so putting it here as an alternative - https://www.hawesandcurtis.co.uk/navy-single-breasted-longline-blazer1-jlpza012-g01

I know it's the wrong colour and I can't tell if the length is right either - it was more to suggest that there's this whole raft of (primarily) traditional men's tailors that do really good women's stuff too.

TM lewins do really good fitted formal shirts. Thomas Pink shirts are the same but much better quality (and the price point reflects it).

Not all formal shirts are the same. The fit and finish and quality of the cotton vary enormously. I find tm lewins and pinks shirts iron the best and I still wear Pink's today. Lewins went bust 4 yrs ago and the quality has deteriorated with their move online. Still good mind but... You can tell (if shirts are your thing!)

Crew and raging bull (ex rugby player started that) also offer shirts and jackets.... But their female stuff can be v hit and miss when it comes to formal work wear.

Finally - I used to use a tailor in Pudsey (retired now) for suits (there is just something about a jacket that has been made for you - you feel like a million dollars as you put it on - gives you such quiet confidence) .. But if you can't find a jacket that is the right length - just buy the one you like and then have it altered to your taste. Any wedding dress shop in your town/area will be able to help - they'll have tailors/seamstresses on tap. Sure they'll be able to help you. Good luck.

EF has gone downhill. Don't waste your money on their recent ranges. uk.trustpilot.com/review/eileenfisher.com

Just jumping in to second a good look at Uniqlo. I have one of the jersey relaxed jackets and it is great. Might work for what you describe, not at all expensive and can be put in the wash. Sizes are huge - size down if you are ordering online. If you like them you could get a couple of different colours.