The Art of the Third Piece: Fall Blazers

I've always believed in the power of the "third piece," that finishing layer that takes an outfit from simple to beautifully put together. And few pieces do this better than a well-tailored blazer! Whether you're starting with jeans and a T-shirt or a cashmere turtleneck and wool trousers, adding a blazer instantly lends an air of polish and makes even the most casual outfit feel considered. My favorite fall formula is a classic blazer layered over a striped shirt, with a cable-knit sweater draped over the shoulders, easy denim, and a chic flat. It's effortless, a little equestrian, and so timeless. This season, I'm especially drawn to rich Donegal tweeds, handsome houndstooth and heritage plaids, classic navy blazers with gold buttons, and beautiful textures like velvet and corduroy. I've rounded up my favorite styles at every price point, from relaxed everyday jackets to beautifully tailored investment pieces, all with that wonderful ability to make you look instantly pulled together.

• My favorite fall blazer formula: a striped shirt with a cable-knit sweater thrown over the shoulders of a field blazer. (This one is very similar for half the price, and comes in petite too!) Add easy jeans (15% off with STACIE15) and these navy suede ballet flats (the comfiest pair I own). Up the equestrian vibe with a horsebit bag.
• The classic navy blazer with gold buttons never goes out of style, and you can find well-made options at every price point. I love the gleaming buttons on this double-breasted wool blazer, or opt for this under $400 version. If you prefer two buttons, this Italian wool flannel doeskin blazer is so chic. Play up the gold buttons with chunky gold earrings like these diamond huggies (I never take mine off!), or these gold huggies.
• All the look of a designer houndstooth for a fraction of the price, this blazer is so good with a T-shirt, jeans and loafers, or a cashmere turtleneck and high-waisted pants. The perfect off-duty third piece to elevate any look!
• This Donegal blazer is the perfect shade of brown and has a slightly shorter body that's ideal with high-waisted trousers. (I love it with the collar popped!) Or make it a suit with the high-waisted trousers.
• The blue and camel check on this cashmere-blend boyfriend jacket looks so good with denim or a cream knit (15% off with stacie15) since the nubby wool feels especially at home with casual looks.
• Collarless salt-and-pepper tweed gives this lady jacket a timeless feel, just as pretty over a silk blouse or paired with denim.
• Chestnut herringbone with no lapels gives this double-breasted blazer such an elegant look over a dress and knee-high boots. (I love how they styled the models.)
• If you love the look of a scarf thrown over your blazer, these two do it for you. (And I'm obsessed.) This brown Donegal tweed jacket comes with a cozy fringed wrap, and the mocha scarf blazer (still at the top of my wishlist!) feels so modern. Both look incredibly chic over a slim knit and trousers, or dressed down with leg-elongating jeans and a pointed-toe boot to balance the extra fabric on top.
• Cotton velvet in this rich ochre shade makes this velvet blazer feel special enough for holiday dinners, but I love it dressed down with jeans and a striped knit. I tried it on while in London and can confirm it's very chic. Pair with a chunky cocktail ring in citrine (or any gemstone really!) to make it even more party ready.
• Berry-hued corduroy is such a rich fall color, and this blazer warms up camel and denim beautifully.
• Blazé Milano blazers are a splurge, but the tailoring is really exceptional. I have two colors from years past and wear them all the time. My two favorite plaids for this season are this green and red check blazer with gold buttons, and this beige and red checked blazer in wool and cashmere. I also found this rust-colored cashmere blazer on sale! Throw any of them over a turtleneck and jeans for an instantly put-together look. (I wear a size 0 in this brand.)
• Charcoal check and a nipped waist make this double-breasted wool blazer so polished with black trousers.
• Warm houndstooth and roomy patch pockets make this blazer effortlessly Parisian, now with loafers and later with boots.
• I'm obsessed with the relaxed cut of this brown check wool blazer, perfect with a big scarf tied at the neck.
• Heathered graphite herringbone is the easiest neutral, and this blazer looks so polished with a black turtleneck and dark denim.
• This double-breasted herringbone blazer in soft gray-brown is smart enough for the office and relaxed enough for Saturday.
• Tartan and tuxedo tailoring are made for the holidays. The satin lapels on this Black Watch blazer are so festive over a black turtleneck, while this sculpted tux blazer nips in at the waist for a sleek evening look. Both work with jeans for a relaxed dinner, then black trousers and heels for parties. Nothing peeks out of a blazer cuff better than a little sparkle, and my tennis bracelet makes these pieces feel extra dressy.
• Bold olive herringbone and a relaxed fit make this blazer the cool, effortless choice over a tee and jeans. Or try this version for a similar look at half the price.

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