I really like J Crew's sweater blazers. They can be worn up with trousers and a silk blouse, or down with casual-Friday jeans and a nice t-shirt. There aren't that many professions that require a "real" blazer for most work days anymore.

I have a schoolboy one from Jcrew that I bought years ago that I love. I also have one that doesn't button but goes with everything, doesn't wrinkle, and isn't too hot for the summer. It's made from tropical wool.

My thing is that I don't way to pay more than $70 if it is not made from wool. I'd suggest targeting Jcrew when they have sales. They usually do a couple of big sales around Thanksgiving and December.

I have also had luck with consignment stores.

I like Lafayette. Pre-COVID I found a few at Nordstrom’s Rack at and below your price range.

The new banana republic ones are really nice. Also if you want to spend a little more- or check the Real Real for nwt, try Veronica Beard. They are my favorite and the absolute best

I bought this one recently at Zara. It fits really well and is super flattering. Quality is surprisingly good. Only drawback is that its meant to be worn open, it does not button closed.

https://www.zara.com/us/en/open-front-blazer-with-buttons-p08125420.html?v1=207353291

Liverpool. They aren’t as good as ones I bought decades ago but they are decent enough for the price. I am 50+.

I wear the S out of my Hugo Boss tropical wool blazer. I’m 47 and a bit curvy. It was almost $500. Worth it!!

I don’t wear my cheaper stuff nearly as much so it’s been better value cost per wear

I love Massimo Dutto. Beautiful Blazers.

I’m also back in an office setting in my mid-40s. Another vote for knit blazers. I bought this one from J. Crew Factory after seeing it on another DCUM post.

https://factory.jcrew.com/p/womens/categories/clothing/sweaters/sweater-blazer/schoolboy-sweater-blazer/BF227

Congratulations!

I've been not finding current stuff I like - so have been frequenting thrift stores. Takes time, but I've found a few gems.

The fabric is a little casual and the cut isn't super traditional but French Mauve has really cute blazers in about every color.

I’ve had luck at area thrift stores - got some great buys but it was also an easy way to try on a number of different brands to see what fit well.

Hey, OP, congratulations!

I like White House Black Market knit blazers - they retail at $200 but sell on the outlet website for $100. You might want to visit a store to check the fit to see if it works for you. While the blazer has a lining that shows off at the cuff when rolled, you can wear the sleeve unrolled.

https://www.whitehouseblackmarket.com/store/product/outlet+whbm+everyday+knit+blazer/

I also like Calvin Klein blazers from Macys
https://www.macys.com/shop/womens-clothing/womens-blazers/Brand/Calvin%20Klein?id=55429

Check out Ann Taylor -- it's the right price point and I've gotten good blazers there. I especially suggest checking out their knit blazers -- they tend to still be fairly structured in the shoulder, so they give off a more professional vibe, but my experience is that they are also more comfortable and versatile than other options. I have a grey herringbone knit blazer I got there over 10 years ago that remains a go-to for me because it looks dressy but is super easy to wear and can be layered over a dress or worn with jeans and still look right.

Some options:

A nice balance of structure and softness: https://www.anntaylor.com/the-hutton-blazer-in-double-knit/592813
If you are prefer something softer than classic lapels: https://www.anntaylor.com/the-cutaway-blazer-in-houndstooth-knit/592543
The texture on this one will make it more versatile and easier to dress up or down: https://www.anntaylor.com/the-hutton-blazer-in-tweed/596338

I’m 52 and returning to work after SAH for 18 years. I’m a little curvy and I cannot find a decent blazer. They all are cheap- feeling or too trendy. I dont want to pay $400 but up to $150 is fine.