By Julie Samaras

A CLASSIC jacket is on the list of 10 wardrobe essentials for every woman; a list popularised by US fashion maestro Tim Gunn (of American TV series “Project Runway” and “Tim Gunn’s Guide to Style” fame).
With so many jacket styles to choose from – the elegant Chanel, the 1950s crop with Peter Pan collar, riding jacket, smoking jacket, anorak, the bomber, the biker – this week we pay tribute to the blazer. Think Ingrid Bergman in “Casablanca” or Katherine Hepburn’s timeless elegance.

Barometer (Sydney) jacket, $259, from Bsuited. Dinosaur Designs resin bangles, various prices, from Bijoux Jewellers.

History suggests the term “blazer” originated with the red jackets of the rowing club of St John’s College, Cambridge, which were dubbed blazers due to their bright, blazing colour. Assertions that the name is derived from HMS Blazer are unsubstantiated, although before the Royal Navy standardised uniforms, the crew of HMS Blazer reportedly wore striped blue and white jackets, apparently in response to HMS Harlequin crew being turned out in harlequin suits. “Hello sailor!” [Note: A harlequin blazer is not considered a wardrobe essential.]
When it comes to blazers, fit, proportion and silhouette are the key elements to looking good.
No matter what you paid for it, if it doesn’t fit, it doesn’t flatter. Many retailers offer a tailoring service to create a custom fit.
A classic blazer made of quality fabric and expert tailoring won’t date, lasting for seasons. It’s investment dressing.
Simply update with new season accessories: A bold scarf in your favourite palette adds an instant lift. Chunky bracelets give a cool edge to a strictly tailored blazer.

Penny Black (Italy) jacket, $660, from Ondina Studio. Bracelet watch, $151.20 (sale price), from April Collections.

Look for colours and shapes that balance your proportions and highlight your best features. A slight shoulder pad can add structure, but for recalcitrant devotees of the supersized versions, the ’80s called and want them back.
Soft neutral tones create a fresh feel, while darker tones can take you from the desk to dinner or drinks.
If the jacket is part of a suit, it can be worn with the skirt or trousers, paired with a blouse or fine knit for a professional polished look. Or layer the jacket over almost anything – from a floaty feminine or shift dress to relaxed or dressy separates (check the proportions work).
Worn back with jeans relaxes the jacket while dressing up the denim for casual elegance. Layered over multiple fine-knit tanks gives a young, fresh look.