Navy Blazer and trouser, but avoiding security guard look?

The_Foxx · Nov 13, 2009

I recently bit the bullet and ordered what I hope will be my "perfect" navy blazer in somewhat of an italian style (2 lower patch pockets, double vents, soft shoulders). I have a lighter weight RLPL navy blazer to wear until the new one's done (might sell that one, not sure yet....marked 42S but it is clearly cut like a 40reg).

How about some picture suggestions on how to wear a navy blazer to work occasionally, WITHOUT looking like a security guard? Niidawg's recent photo struck me as an excellent example of avoiding the SG look, unexpected greenish tie and grey flannels, looks great but I'd never have thought of this on my own.

Tomasso · Nov 13, 2009

Wear a very expensive watch.

dfischer1 · Nov 13, 2009

I would say most of all the pocket hankerchief, but also the spread collar, the proper fitting of the blazer overall, and the nice (leather soled) shoes would dispel any notion of being mistaken for a security guard.

DF

NaturalShoulder · Nov 13, 2009

I think the fit is the most telling sign in both the blazer and trousers. A striped or checked shirt might also help.

ThinkDerm · Nov 13, 2009

nii - looking trimmer - been losing weight?

FlaneurNYC · Nov 13, 2009

Avoid polyester and embroidered badges.

A.K.A. · Nov 13, 2009

Ditto on dfischer1's comment. Avoid using any sort of cellphone earpiece and you're golden.

Douglas · Nov 13, 2009

Patch pockets are going to go a long way, and as others have indicated, a pocket square. I'd avoid solid ties, unless they have texture, and even then I'd be careful. Unexpected colors like greens, oranges, etc. will go a long way. I think grey pants are OK but, as Niidawg has done, wear something textured. Make sure the pants fit properly, and it's an area where even if it's not your stylistic preference, no break will help. Wear good shoes. Polish them up, and brown will clearly differentiate you. Ultimately, it's a navy blazer. It goes with just about anything, so if you avoid the boring combos of white shirts and straightforward ties you should be in good shape.

Dewey · Nov 13, 2009

Pink sweater vest.

83glt · Nov 13, 2009

Originally Posted by FlaneurNYC

Avoid polyester and embroidered badges.
... and sleeve length that passes your knuckels.

Scrumhalf · Nov 13, 2009

Good BROWN shoes... most important. Get a striped tie. Regiment stripes maybe... Pocket square. Clothes that fit and don't look like they have been issued by your employer. And finally, ditch the white shirt and wear either a light blue or striped shirt. That should ensure nobody comes to you and asks for directions to the rest rooms.

Eagle · Nov 13, 2009

Avoid the black corfam shoes and wear a pocket square. Also stay away from sporting an embroidered crest on your blazer.

lee_44106 · Nov 13, 2009

what's with this "fear" about being mistaken for a security guard?

I though we all dress for ourselves and could care less what others think?

The_Foxx · Nov 13, 2009

i think it's more of a desire to find an individual, unique way to wear the "uniform" of a navy blazer and odd pants-- which is probably the most common American way of dressing, in addition to being the uniform for security personnel.

Originally Posted by lee_44106

what's with this "fear" about being mistaken for a security guard?

I though we all dress for ourselves and could care less what others think?

niidawg3 · Nov 13, 2009

Originally Posted by ThinkDerm

nii - looking trimmer - been losing weight?

lol .. good thing i am bored at home and randomly popped into this thread.

yes - 15 miles on the bike every lunch hour ... down 40lbs since March. trying to lose 10 more hopefully ... but its become really hard.

anyway, back to foxx's question - i think the quality of shoes, a dashing tie and a ps will dispel any notions. most security guards i see wear ill fitting jackets anyways, so as long as the jacket fits well, you are half way there.

btw - sounds like you have the perfect recipe for a perfect blazer ... this one here has all that except it has a single vent .. drives me nuts sometimes, but the patch pockets, natural shoulder and fit makes up for it. i might get one done with side vents sometime next year.

Navy Blazer and trouser, but avoiding security guard look?

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