Whenever I’m home in Minnesota (which I am right now for the holidays), I have the great pleasure of walking our family dog. Beau. I’m serious. There’s something so beautiful about taking a walk early in the morning — I love the whole process: strapping on Beau’s leash and heading out the door to breathe in the freshest air is, in short, a peaceful ritual I miss whenever I’m back in the Big Apple. But, I’m also in Minnesota, which means that same fresh air is cold and chilly, for which I need to be entirely bundled up. Think: heavy down coats, thick boots, and sweatpants with leggings underneath. 

So, imagine my surprise when I saw Brooke Shields walking her dog in New York City in a “dog-walking outfit” I would never, ever think to wear — for that occasion, at least. I have, in fact, worn her exact three-piece combo countless times, but to the office, not to walk Beau, though that might just change. I’m intrigued. 

Shields’ unexpected dog-walking look consisted of simple, straight-leg jeans that had subtle distressed detailing along the leg, a fitted black shirt she tucked into the denim, and black pointed-toe suede boots that had a little bit of a cowboy flair. Last but certainly not least, the pièce de résistance was a checked wool blazer that everyone, and I mean everyone, should have in their closet — for dog-walking and beyond.

Madewell Violet Alfa Wool-Blend Blazer

Alex Mill Eleanor Houndstooth Check Wool Blazer

Whenever I don’t know what to wear, I reach for a blazer. It’s an elevated, easy staple that takes a simple jeans-and-tee outfit from meh to wow — and that already explains the piece’s styling powers, making it a total must-have. But aside from its ability to elevate anything and everything, a blazer is also a timeless, versatile buy you’ll wear now, next year, and in 2030 thanks to its enduring nature and the fact that a blazer never, ever goes out of style. 

Black blazers are a no-brainer, but what I like about Shields’ pick is its brown colorway and checked pattern that gives it a bit more dimension and makes it feel slightly more casual and everyday (err, dog walking) friendly. Just like its dark-hued cousin, a checked wool blazer can be worn with jeans, trousers, skirts, or dresses, but feels slightly less formal. Pro tip: Look for one with a wool-blend for extra warmth this time of year so you can forgo a coat altogether. 

Shop more checkered blazers inspired by Shields’ look, below.

Get the Look:

Free People Crosby Plaid Blazer
Shop now: $111 (Originally $158); nordstrom.com

Open Edit Plaid Corset Blazer
Shop now: $71 (Originally $89); nordstrom.com

Vince Camuto Double-Breasted Blazer
Shop now: $169; nordstrom.com

English Factory Plaid Two-Button Blazer
Shop now: $130; nordstrom.com

Open Edit Plaid Bracelet-Sleeve Blazer
Shop now: $79; nordstrom.com

Steve Madden Frida Plaid Blazer
Shop now: $69 (Originally $99); nordstrom.com