The Pre-Owned Garment to Invest In: The Blazer

Why Invest in a Pre-Owned or Vintage Blazer?

✔ You can get a lot of quality for your money: A new blazer of the same craftsmanship and material is often significantly more expensive. 

✔ It is unique: A reused blazer carries history, and no one else has exactly the same one – you get a personal style with character. A vintage blazer may also feature style markers that are hard to find in newly produced garments – details like shoulder pads, stitching, and fit are not made in the same way today as they were 10, 20, or 30 years ago. The natural patina that develops also adds personality – a well-worn blazer with a slightly worn surface can make the garment even more charming.

✔ A chance to experiment: A blazer is a great entry point for those who may not be used to wearing one, or for those who want to try out a completely new model or colour – perfect if you want to test an unusual blazer without spending a fortune.

✔ A timeless choice: A well-tailored vintage blazer has a classic silhouette that stands the test of time. Instead of following rapidly changing trends, you get a garment with character and history that can be worn year after year without feeling outdated.

✔ Ger nytt liv åt ett plagg: Att välja en pre-owned kavaj innebär att ge nytt liv åt ett plagg istället för att bidra till nyproduktion. Det är ett hållbart alternativ som minskar resursförbrukning och textilavfall, samtidigt som det ofta innebär bättre hantverk och material än många nyproducerade plagg.

What Should You Look For?

Seasonal Blazers: Seasonal blazers are perfect to look for: tweed blazers, flannel blazers, linen blazers, or a tuxedo jacket that is usually worn infrequently or is seasonally dependent. This makes it more worthwhile to invest in a Pre-Owned or vintage blazer rather than a new one, which you might otherwise feel guilty about not using frequently and year-round. A cashmere blazer, for example, can cost half the price, making it a great deal.

Classic Icons and Specific Models: Some classic icons to look for include the Bogliogi K Jacket, Caruso, Gabo Napoli, Canali, Corneliani, and Lardini. If you like a well-tailored look, it may be worth looking for a blazer with wider lapels, a tapered waist, and a slightly longer cut, not only because they are classic but also because they are currently stylish. If you want a more casual blazer, look for an unstructured blazer in cotton, for example. Or why not a knitted blazer that can be worn as both a cardigan and a blazer? It is an easy step into wearing blazers.

What Should You Consider Regarding Material and Quality?

Degree of Formality: Consider the level of formality you desire when choosing a blazer – a light, unstructured linen blazer may not be the right choice for a wedding with a black-tie dress code.

Material and Structure: Also, look at the material composition – do you want a fully lined, half-lined, unstructured, or more structured blazer? This affects both comfort and style.

Condition: Examine the condition – at Care of Carl Pre-Owned we always check the collar, armpits, and pockets extra carefully. Are there signs of wear, stains, or holes? has the nap worn off on a flannel blazer (or does it just add a nice patina)?

When you buy a Pre-Owned blazer from us, we have checked its condition before selling it.We never sell damaged garments, though signs of use and natural patina may be present.

How Should You Think About Fit and Size?

Personal Preferences: Just as when buying a new blazer, go with what you like. Wide or narrow lapels? A slim, tailored waist or a straighter fit? A double-breasted blazer can, for example, create a nice silhouette on a slimmer body type, while a single-breasted one gives the impression of a nrrower figure. But in the end, it is about your personal style and needs. Do you prefer British or Italian tailoring? British tailoring is often more structured, while Italian is more relaxed and casual. Do you want a discreet and classic colour like grey or blue – or a more eye-catching colour or pattern?

Length: The length of the blazer matters – today's blazers are often shorter, which may be due to both a trend-driven design choice and cost considerations in production. However, a longer blazer is more classic and creates a stylish silhouette. A traditional rule of thumb is that the blazer should cover the seat.  

Blazer Measurements: Check the measurements. Just because a blazer is a size 50 does not mean it has a standard fit when bought second-hand. Vintage blazers are often tailored to the previous owner. We measure all garments when they come in, so check the size chart to find the right fit!