Six Fashion Weeks Later, I’ve Found The Perfect Blazer

Six seasons in, and I still have the same thought every September: what the hell am I wearing to fashion week? You’ve got to look good - it’s fashion week, duh - but you also need to be practical. When you’re sprinting from shows at 9 a.m. to after parties at midnight, filing copy in Ubers and filming TikToks on the sidewalk, comfort has to be part of the equation.

This season, transitional dressing was everywhere. Tailoring was sharp, waists were cinched, and the fabrics had that perfect heavy drape that makes autumn outfits feel instantly more polished. A blazer is basically fashion week law at this point, but I wanted something that wasn’t just another ‘borrowed from the boys’ moment. Enter: the cocoon blazer.Balloon sleeves, nipped-in waist, instant drama - but still wearable. River Island’s version was the one that cut through the noise, so of course I snapped it up.

The brand actually has a whole lineup worth shouting about - think sleek black, a deep burgundy, checkered patterns, and pinstripes. Some come belted for that extra bit of tailoring, which gives them a power-dressing look without losing that soft cocoon silhouette.

I styled mine with simple black trousers, a vintage Dior bag, and kitten heels - a high-low mix that made me feel pulled together but still able to run (literally) between shows. The fit (UK size 8) was on point: flattering, cosy in 18-degree weather, and genuinely all day comfortable. It does come with matching trousers, but I liked breaking it up and letting the blazer shine on its own.

That’s the thing about this shape, it works with everything. Wide-leg whites? Chic. Leggings? Effortless. Shorts or capris? Suddenly fashion girl energy. The balloon sleeves and structured buttons do all the talking, which means you don’t have to.

And here’s the kicker: it’s not just a fashion week fling. The cocoon blazer makes sense in real life too. It’s work appropriate, transitions into after hours drinks, and makes even a ‘just popped to Pret’ run feel like a street style shot. Not everyone’s got one in their wardrobe yet, but give it a season and they will. So if you’re going to buy one piece before autumn: make it this.

Shop: Cocoon Blazer

Renee Washington, Grazia's digital fashion and beauty writer, lives online. With a penchant for wispy lashes and streetwear, she writes about the worlds of fashion and beauty from the viewpoint of the modern fashion girlie..

Main image credit: @lissiejudd, River Island, @freyaraine.x, @reneewashingtonn