The Odd Jacket

Simply put, an odd jacket is any jacket that is paired with unmatched trousers. This is typically done by using different colors, however, it can also be done with a combination of colors, patterns, or fabrics. Most people would be familiar with odd jackets as blazers or sport coats. These terms are more specific types of odd jackets which I will cover in a later post.

The definition of a suit requires that the jacket and trousers are matching in color, pattern, and fabric. This means that when you’re wearing an odd jacket, even when combining it with an equally formal pair of trousers, the outfit is technically not considered a suit. But remember, a lot of people aren’t aware of this fact, so when you are inevitably complimented by them on your suit, forget the corrections and politely thank them!

But in today’s casual world, rocking an odd jacket means you’re still dressed up quite a bit, even though its a step down in formality from a full on suit. Dress codes for white collar work settings have relaxed considerably in the last few decades, for better or for worse. Traditionally, swapping out your suit jacket for an odd jacket now meant that you were wearing business casual attire. This is a far cry from the chinos and polo combination that many consider to be business casual today.

So why wear an odd jacket? Well for one, you can showcase your creativity with different colors, patterns, and fabrics. This can take some experience and confidence but navy and grey is a great place to start since these two colors are staples in menswear. Another reason is versatility; creating more outfits for yourself. Lets say you own two suits, a navy suit and a grey suit. If you wear them as such they are just two outfits, but when you swap the jackets you’ve now created four outfits!

Recommendations:

• be sure there is enough color contrast between both jacket and trousers or it look like you’ve put on too similar colored suit pieces by accident
• when pairing different fabrics, make sure they belong in the same warm/cold fabric category i.e. light cotton with linen
• Grey and navy are a classic combination if you need a place to start