Blazer Badges : Style & Tradition Guide

The Chaps Guide ! Ash – host on this journey through men’s style, self-development, and personal grooming.

Our Team Question [ Bruce & replied by Ash ]

Today, I’m going to answer a question from a viewer about something I’m clearly quite interested in, as I have several related items displayed on the table. Our viewer, Bruce, hails from Toronto but currently lives in Mexico. He recently asked me:

The Essential Navy Blazer

Bruce mentioned he recently purchased a navy blazer, which I call “the little black dress of the man’s wardrobe”—a style essential. He continues, expressing his connection to an organization whose badge he still holds.

Wear a Badge on a Blazer?

it’s appropriate to mount the badge on his blazer for everyday use or reserve it for events with his old comrades. He also asks if he should limit other adornments like lapel pins, pocket squares, or banners.

History of Badges on Blazers

let’s delve into the fascinating history of blazer badges. The origins trace back to the 19th century, particularly in British public schools, military regiments, and sporting clubs.

Badges in Public Schools

In public schools like Eton and Harrow, badges represented not just school affiliation but also rich heritage, with mottos often embroidered in Latin or English.

Military Influence

Military organizations also adopted blazer badges, often stylized versions of their cap badges, which allowed veterans to recognize each other.

Badges in Sports Clubs

Sports clubs embraced the blazer badge too, often displaying Crests with their club emblems and even personal achievements, particularly in cricket, rugby, and rowing.

Blazer Badges in Modern Fashion

Today, some fashion houses, like Gucci and Ralph Lauren, include badges in their clothing lines purely as a style statement, transforming badges from functional symbols into trendy accessories.

You can also Check-out our Latest Collection of Blazer badges

Social Implications of Wearing a Blazer Badge

Wearing a badge today has become less common, partly due to the casualization of dress. Fewer gentlemen wear blazers regularly, so badges may stand out even more.

My Journey with the Blazer Badge

My journey with the blazer badge started at age 11, with a school badge on my uniform blazer. Later, I encountered veterans proudly displaying their service badges, which left a lasting impression.

Military and Charity Badges

Having served in the military, I own my own service badge, though I display it rather than wear it. Over time, I’ve acquired various badges related to military service and charity work.

The Power of the Blazer Badge

In 2012, while setting up a charity, we adopted a blazer badge, lapel pin, and a charity tie as part of our branding, which became an invaluable networking tool.

Advice for Bruce: Wear It Proudly

Bruce, I encourage you to sew your blazer badge on and wear it proudly. The mix of old and new adds to its heritage, and it’s sure to spark conversations.