Back to basics - The Blazer

In French the word Garconne means "boy" but with a feminine suffix, an

understandable choice for the masculine style that was introduced in women's

fashion in the 20s. In English, la garconne was translated as the flapper, "a young

woman, especially one flaunting her unconventional dress and behaviour." (source) It is this

androginous style that stired up controversy and revolutionised fashion in the 20s

that represents today's classic fashion. The simple and unornamented forms in

neutral colors that were born out of the values of modernism, the fight for gender

equality, and the wartime austerity that followed are nowadays the features of

wardrobe basics.

The blazer was introduced in women's fashion in the 1940s, when due to fabric

shortages "men's suits were re-cut into women's suits, complete with the tailored

details and shoulder padding previously found in the garments." (source) After a dramatic

comeback in the 80s the classic blazer lost its appeal in the late 90s, "even though

the shoulder line was softened and narrowed" (source), only to now become a must-have

item once more.

I admit that the classic blazer is one of my favourite wardrobe basics, and thus I

could not resist adding this black wool blazer to my collection. With padded

shoulders, emphasized by side wing-like pieces of fabric, and with a slim line this

was very reminiscent of WWII Lanvin, while still having a very fresh and

contemporary feel.

by Alina Botea

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