There are a couple of things every man must own and a suitable blazer is one of them. A good blazer is an essential for work and going out, and it’s recommended you own at least two so you don’t wear them out. Regardless of how nice your shirt or tie is, a blazer can make or break your outfit, therefore you must have one that’s tailored to you. Most people don’t know how a blazer should fit or how to go about purchasing one. I’ve listed down five key areas where you should pay attention when you try on a blazer in order to make an informed decision on whether or not the blazer is right for you.

Before you get started, you should know how they run. Most retailers will have blazer sizes from 36R to 46L. The number is the chest size and the letters correspond to the length of the sleeves. “S” is for short which is shorter than average, “R” is regular or the standard fit and “L” is slightly longer. If you aren’t familiar with your measurements, here’s a handy chart that will give you an idea of which size you should start from. For the best possible fit, try on various chest sizes with sleeve lengths.

Now, onto the actual blazer key points.

1. The Shoulder.
   When you put on the blazer, there shouldn’t be any air pockets or empty space in the corner of your shoulders. That’s a sign that the blazer is too big for you. The stitching on the shoulder should coincide with your shoulder bone.
2. The Under Arm.
   If this area feels too tight, go up a size. Blazers should feel snug there but not tight. A good way to gauge this to hold out your arms in front of you when you have the blazer on. If it feels like the jacket is going to rip, take it off immediately. You should have some mobility in a blazer but don’t use that as a reason to buy one that’s really loose there. You aren’t supposed to be doing acrobatics in it.
3. The Chest.
   The chest test is easy. If you can button the blazer without any pulling or constrictions, then the chest size is right. If you have to fight to make the ends meet, take it off and try another size.
4. The Sleeves.
   The sleeves of the blazer should end in the middle point between your wrists and where your thumbs start. That’s about an inch and a half past your wrists. If that’s too confusing, hold our your arms again. In this position, the sleeves will pull back and should rest about 2-3 inches from your wrist. Any more than that means that the sleeves are too short.
5. The Blazer End. The end of the blazer should rest halfway between your hip bone and your knees. It’s okay if they rest slightly higher but any lower, it’ll look like you’re wearing your old man’s blazer. The other four key points have far more priority and you can get away with a blazer that may sit slightly high.

There are also some things you need to keep in mind. There are two major fits for blazers that cater to different physiques. If you’re stocky, muscular or athletic, opt for a “Modern” or “Classic” fit which are more roomy and boxier. On the flip side if you’re skinny or tall or both, you should look for “Tailored” or “Slim” fits. They’re more tapered and give a much better silhouette.

I hope this little guide helps you find the blazer that’s meant for you out there!