Sports Coats: Choosing The Right Color

When it comes to choosing the colour of a sports coat or blazer, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, it is important to understand the difference between a sports coat and a blazer. A sports coat is typically more casual and is often worn in less formal settings, while a blazer is more dressy and can be worn in both formal and casual situations. With that in mind, the colour of the jacket should be chosen based on the desired level of formality. For a sports coat, neutral colours such as grey, brown, and navy are often recommended as they can be easily paired with different types of trousers and are versatile for various casual events. On the other hand, a blazer can be a bit more bold and colourful, with reds, bottle greens, and classic navy being popular choices. The level of formality and the desired level of versatility will play a key role in determining the colour of the jacket.

Navy blue is a sharp, traditional and versatile colour for a blazer

The navy blue blazer is a staple garment that can be worn year-round and goes with almost anything. It is a good choice for those who want to look smart and put-together without appearing too formal or overdressed. While it can be worn with jeans, it is best paired with trousers or chinos for a more polished look. For a more casual outfit, it can be styled with jeans, but its formality means it doesn't pair as well with denim.

The blazer is a dressy alternative to the sport coat, filling the gap between a suit and a sport coat in terms of formality. It is a great choice for business environments, formal functions, and night events. Its structured fit and sharp silhouette make it a flattering option for all body shapes. The blazer's origins lie with British royalty in the 1800s and naval connotations, which is why navy blue is the traditional colour.

The navy blue blazer is a timeless piece that can be worn in a variety of ways and is a great starting point when building a stylish wardrobe. It is a good choice for those who want a garment that can be dressed up or down, taking them from day to night with ease. With its ability to pair well with various colours and styles, the navy blue blazer is a versatile and classic addition to any wardrobe.

Grey trousers are a good match for a range of sport coat colours

Grey trousers are also a good option to pair with a navy jacket. Navy is the smartest of all colours and, with grey trousers, can be almost as formal as a suit. Navy is a good first sports coat colour to have in your wardrobe. It is a very dark colour, which means it will contrast well with most trousers.

Grey trousers can also be paired with a brown jacket. Brown is a neutral and versatile colour and pairs well with grey. It is a good foundational sport coat colour.

Grey trousers can also be paired with other colours, such as green, blue, or red. Grey trousers are a good option if you are unsure what colour trousers to wear with your sport coat.

Brown is another versatile trouser colour, pairing well with denim

When choosing brown trousers, opt for different shades such as tan, chocolate, or pearl to add variety to your wardrobe. These colours will also provide a nice contrast to most sports coats or blazers, which are typically dark-coloured. For a more casual look, consider corduroy or cotton twill trousers in earthy shades of brown. If you want to add a pop of colour to your outfit, try pairing your brown trousers with a blue denim jacket. This combination creates a stylish and effortless look that is perfect for a variety of occasions.

For a more formal ensemble, you can pair brown trousers with a navy blazer. This classic combination is versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the shoes and accessories you choose. To complete the look, add a pair of loafers or smart lace-up shoes. If you're looking for a more casual outfit, brown trousers can also be paired with a hopsack sport coat. The coarser texture of the hopsack fabric gives a sporty feel that pairs well with denim.

When creating outfits with brown trousers, remember to consider the colour temperature and intensity. Warmer shades of brown, such as terracotta, will pair well with yellow or red accents. Colder shades, like taupe, can be worn with stone or cream-coloured trousers. By paying attention to these small details, you can create harmonious and stylish outfits with brown trousers.

A hopsack sport coat is a good foundational piece, in brown, grey or green

A hopsack sport coat is a great foundational piece for any wardrobe. Its basket weave pattern gives it a coarser texture and a sporty feel, making it a perfect match for jeans. At the same time, its airy yet substantial weave and ability to drape nicely mean it can also be dressed up with trousers or khakis.

The hopsack sport coat is a versatile jacket that works for multiple seasons and occasions. It is lightweight and breathable, making it ideal for summer, but it can also be worn in fall and spring, and even winter in milder climates. Whether you're going on a date, attending a company dinner, or travelling, this coat will have you looking sharp and put-together without being too formal.

When it comes to colour, brown, grey, and green are all excellent choices for a hopsack sport coat. Brown is a neutral and versatile colour that pairs well with denim. Grey is another versatile option that comes in a variety of shades, from pearl to charcoal. Green is a great choice if you plan to pair your sport coat with khakis or trousers.

The hopsack sport coat is a classic piece that will serve you well for a variety of occasions. With its versatility and style, it is a great starting point for building a well-rounded wardrobe.

A thick, textured winter sport coat in tweed or corduroy

When it comes to colour, brown or grey are good options for a straightforward style that will go with most things in your wardrobe. If you're after something a little different, consider a rich dark brown or wheat-ish tan corduroy jacket. These colours are versatile and can be dressed up or down. For example, a dark brown corduroy jacket can be worn with khaki chinos, jeans or flannel trousers, and paired with a shirt in oxford cloth, chamois, or plaid cotton. Alternatively, a wheat-ish tan jacket can be worn with blue jeans, tan khakis, grey flannels or brown cavalry twill trousers.

If you want to add some interest to your jacket, consider a subtle, minimal pattern such as herringbone, or a bolder pattern like checks, stripes or plaid. However, if you're unsure about what to wear with a patterned jacket, it's best to stick to a solid colour or very subtle pattern.

When it comes to cut, a 2-button or 3-button style is typical for a sport coat. A 2-button cut is more casual, while a 3-button style can elongate the torso and create a slimmer silhouette.

Frequently asked questions