( The Casual Blazer )

“Ever since I was little people called me ‘the shy guy’. It wasn’t a big mistake: I’m still not the person who is standing on the frontline immediately. However, when working as an architect, giving presentations and selling ideas to the client is my core business.”

When growing up I forced myself to change my shyness into self-confidence. The garment I’m wearing was crucial in that. My mom bought me my first casual blazer when I was sixteen years old. When putting it on it felt like something changed. Of course it made me look more mature, but the impact on my self-consciousness was even bigger. When I wear it, it feels like having a protective shield around me, that makes me feel stronger and able to deal with tough discussions and heavy debates.

Still, whenever I give presentations of my projects I put it on. To avoid creating a distance to my audience, I like to keep it casual, not too formal. The blazer is smart-looking and creates a sense of personal accessibility at the same time.

( Jorrit )
( The Netherlands )