a new classic of mine: tuxedo jacket

I'd been lusting after a tuxedo jacket for awhile and finally scored one last month. It's already become so integral to my wardrobe that I'm not sure how I dealt without it! I wore it a bunch when I was in Paris and it made me feel particularly French.

In 1966, Yves Saint Laurent first introduced the tuxedo jacket for women, which he dubbed Le Smoking jacket. Women appreciated this sexy take on menswear, including Bianca Jagger, who wore this jacket throughout the seventies (and even to her 1971 wedding to Rolling Stones frontman), solidifying it as a piece for the cool kids with self-assured style.

Tuxedo Jacket, Dillard's (similar here and here)
Tee, Aerie (see how much I love it here)
Leather coated jeans, Zara (also see them here)
Necklace, C. Wonder

Worn with skirts at work or jeans at night, this jacket is the ultimate in chic. The jacket should fit loosely and mine goes just past my hips. I particularly love it with skinnies and some heels!

The keys to a tuxedo jacket are lapels of a contrasting material or color. Satin is common for lapels, but velvet also adds a luxe touch. Jackets often come in black with white lapels or white with black lapels. These myriad options means you'll find one that fits your wardrobe and style. And don't be surprised when it becomes an instant favorite of yours!