The quickest way to make an ordinary blazer look expensive is to change its buttons. A good metal button for blazer use can turn a plain navy jacket into a classic, or give an old blazer a new lease of life for a fraction of the cost of a new one. This guide covers how many buttons you need, what size, which finish suits your blazer colour, and how to sew them on yourself.
Why blazers suit metal buttons
The blazer began life as a club and naval jacket, and brass buttons were part of its identity from the start. That heritage is why metal buttons look right on a blazer in a way they sometimes do not on a business suit. A blazer is a standalone jacket, so its buttons are allowed to be a feature.
How many buttons does a blazer need?
| Blazer style | Front buttons | Sleeve buttons (total) |
|---|---|---|
| Single-breasted, 2-button | 2 large | 6 to 8 small (3 or 4 per sleeve) |
| Single-breasted, 3-button | 3 large | 6 to 8 small |
| Double-breasted, 6×2 | 6 large (plus 1 inside, often plain) | 6 to 8 small |
Count the buttons on your blazer before ordering, and check whether you want to replace the sleeve buttons as well. Matching front and sleeve buttons look far more finished.
Metal button for blazer sizes
- Front buttons: usually around 20 mm (32L).
- Sleeve buttons: usually around 15 mm (24L).
Measure the diameter of an existing button with a ruler. A replacement should be the same size or no more than 1 mm larger, otherwise it will not pass through the buttonhole easily.
Choosing a metal button for blazer colours
| Blazer colour | Best metal button | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Navy | Bright or antique gold-tone | The classic club-blazer look |
| Black | Black and gold, or silver-tone | Adds contrast without looking loud |
| Grey / charcoal | Silver-tone | Cool metal matches cool fabric |
| Bottle green / olive | Antique gold | Warm, heritage feel |
| Maroon / wine | Gold with maroon accents | Coordinated and festive |
| Beige / camel | Antique gold or bronze | Earthy and relaxed |
For a navy blazer, the antique gold emblem buttons or the golden wheel designer buttons give the traditional look. For black, try the black and gold geometric set.
Metal vs pearl-finish buttons
Not every blazer needs metal. Pearl-finish buttons give a softer, lighter look on cream, white and pastel jackets, and suit summer and day-wedding wear. The pearl finish designer buttons are a good example. Metal suits navy, black and darker colours; pearl suits light fabrics.
How to replace blazer buttons: step by step
- Remove the old button. Slide a seam ripper or small scissors under the button and cut the threads. Pull out loose thread ends.
- Mark the position. Use the old thread holes as your guide so the new button sits exactly where the old one did.
- Thread the needle. Use strong polyester or button thread, doubled and knotted, in a colour matching the blazer.
- Sew through the shank. Pass the needle up through the fabric, through the shank loop, and back down. Repeat 6 to 8 times.
- Leave a little slack. Keep a 2 to 3 mm gap between button and fabric so the buttonhole fabric can sit underneath.
- Wrap and lock. Wrap the thread a few times around the stitches under the button, pass to the inside and knot securely.
- Repeat for sleeves. Space sleeve buttons evenly, touching or slightly overlapping (“kissing”) for a traditional look.
If your blazer is expensive or the buttonholes are working buttonholes on the sleeves, a local tailor can do the job quickly and cheaply.
Style tips for metal-buttoned blazers
- Keep your other metals consistent: gold buttons with gold-tone cufflinks and watch.
- Let the buttons be the focus. Choose a simpler tie or skip the tie altogether.
- Add a brooch or lapel pin in the same finish for a coordinated look.
- A white or navy pocket square with gold buttons is a timeless combination.
Shop metal buttons for blazers
Find the right metal button for blazer jackets: browse emblem, vintage, geometric and colour-accent metal sets, plus pearl-finish options, in the Tievera designer buttons collection. For a broader overview of button types, read our guide to the metal button for mens wear.
Frequently asked questions
How many buttons do I need for a blazer?
A single-breasted two-button blazer needs 2 front buttons and 6 to 8 sleeve buttons. A double-breasted blazer usually needs 6 front buttons plus sleeve buttons.
What size buttons go on a blazer?
Front buttons are usually around 20 mm and sleeve buttons around 15 mm. Measure an existing button to be sure.
Can I put gold buttons on a black blazer?
Yes. Black and gold buttons look sharp and add contrast. Silver-tone is a quieter alternative.
Can I change blazer buttons myself?
Yes. With a needle, strong thread and the steps above, most men can replace blazer buttons in under an hour.
