A Hard-Wearing Travel Blazer

 
 

We are often asked about simple sport jackets that are particularly well-suited for travel. For me this means a hardy fabric that is textured and pairs well with casual clothing, holds up against wear and tear, and withstands wrinkling.

My go-to is a hardy 12/13oz "mock leno" weave, which is notably more substantial than we've often recommended in the past. This pure wool from Smith Woolens in England has a crisp dry hand and open weave which lends great versatility as a true three-season fabric from early Fall through late Spring. It hangs beautifully and rather comfortingly heavy on the shoulders, and during travel it can be folded up for a bit of lumbar support on a flight then rolled out nearly wrinkle-free for wearing off the plane. 

Off-seam topstitching and patch pockets keep this particularly model casual enough to pair nicely with jeans, and I suggest flaps for a bit of extra security when bouncing around airports and train stations. For clients we'll typically finish blazers like this with dark brown horn buttons for ease of wear, but I like the more eccentric look of the slightly unorthodox gunmetal blazer buttons.

We like garments that improve with age, and this is a blazer that will look even better years down the road after its thoroughly broken in and molded to the body.