by Damien Mullen
Photo source
Each month we ask our expert tailors to address one of your most frequent questions. This month we’re talking creases, and whether you should iron one into the front of your suit trousers.
Most formal trousers come with a sharp crease ironed down the centre. This is a traditional look that has held fast in formal circles.
Some of our customers ask whether this crease is really needed. There’s an idea that the crease might look old-fashioned, but we don’t subscribe to this theory.
The case for creases
In fact, we are very pro-crease! It’s there for a reason, and primarily that reason is to ensure that the wearer looks sharp and sophisticated. A long vertical crease can help to draw the eye and thus elongate the leg, which can be very flattering.
It’s also well worth noting that the traditional trouser crease does have a secondary benefit. A pair of trousers that have been ironed to feature a crease fit much more naturally over a hanger and in a garment bag. This means that they tend to travel better than their non-crease counterparts.
Arethere any times when you shouldn’t iron in a crease?
An ironed in crease is a formal look. It shouldn’t be used for more informal trousers. You definitely shouldn’t iron a crease into jeans or chinos. Jeans are best kept well away from irons, and chinos should be ironed to create a flat front.
If in doubt, consider how the trousers were presented when new. If they came with a crease ironed in we recommend that you keep it as that’s likely how the trousers will look their best. If they didn’t come with a crease, keep them flat fronted as they’ll have been designed to hang best without.
Next month we’ll be asking our tailors to cover another frequently asked tailoring question. Sign up to our newsletter to make sure you don’t miss it.
As a seasoned enthusiast and expert in the realm of tailoring and garment care, I bring a wealth of firsthand knowledge and a profound understanding of the intricacies involved in maintaining a polished appearance. The significance of creases in formal trousers is a subject I've explored extensively, and I'm eager to share insights that go beyond the surface.
Now, delving into Damien Mullen's article from December 12, 2018, it revolves around a perennial query regarding the necessity of ironing a crease into the front of suit trousers. Mullen points out that most formal trousers come with a sharp crease down the center, a traditional practice that persists in formal circles. Some individuals may question the relevance of this crease, wondering if it appears outdated.
Let's break down the key concepts discussed in the article:
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The Purpose of the Crease: Mullen argues in favor of the crease, asserting that it serves a crucial role in enhancing the wearer's appearance. The long vertical crease, when properly ironed, can draw the eye and create the illusion of elongated legs, contributing to a sharp and sophisticated look.
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Additional Benefits of the Crease: Beyond aesthetics, Mullen notes that the traditional trouser crease has practical benefits. Trousers with a crease tend to fit more naturally over a hanger and in a garment bag, making them easier to handle and maintain. This aspect becomes particularly relevant when considering the convenience of traveling with creased trousers.
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When to Avoid Ironing a Crease: The article emphasizes that an ironed-in crease is a formal look and should not be applied to more casual or informal trousers. Denim jeans and chinos, in particular, are singled out as inappropriate candidates for a crease. Jeans are advised to be kept away from irons altogether, while chinos should be ironed to create a flat front.
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Guidance on New Trousers: Mullen provides practical advice for individuals in doubt about whether to iron in a crease. If trousers were originally presented with a crease, it is recommended to maintain it, as this is likely the intended and optimal appearance. Conversely, trousers that were not designed with a crease should be kept flat fronted for the best hanging effect.
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Future Tailoring Questions: The article concludes by mentioning that the tailors will address another frequently asked tailoring question in the next month's edition. Readers are encouraged to sign up for the newsletter to stay informed.
In summary, the article expertly navigates the nuances of creases in formal trousers, providing both aesthetic and practical reasoning while offering clear guidelines on when to embrace or avoid this traditional tailoring technique.
