If you’ve invested in a proper suit, you should understand how to button your suit jacket so it looks just as sharp on you as it does on the rack. Many gents don’t realise that there are a few different ways to button a suit jacket.
Unfortunately, however, not all of them will put your new suit to its best advantage! Keep reading to master the right way to wear your suit jacket and look impeccable in the process.
Why should I care about how to button a suit jacket?
So, why does knowing how to button a suit jacket properly even matter? It seems bizarre that the fashion gods should dictate how we dress, down to the last button. But it does, and you’ll definitely be thanking us for the advice later.
Firstly, knowing how to button your suit jacket shows the world that you have an intimate knowledge of just how to dress properly in a suit. It means you’re far less likely to feel uncomfortably buttoned-up, and you won’t commit the embarrassing fashion faux pas of popping a suit button; never a good look!
Lastly, you’ll be far more comfortable with the right buttons done up correctly. Suits are specifically tailored to be worn a certain way, and that includes button wear. They’re created with the assumption that you know which buttons to do up, and which to leave. So, if you have the bottom button on a 2-button suit jacket securely fastened, chances are you’ll be uncomfortable. On the other hand, if you know how to button a suit jacket, you’ll be comfortable and you’ll look impeccable. These age-old fashion rules are in place for a reason!
One-button suit
This is by far the simplest. Just button up the one-button suit while standing. This will give the suit jacket a balanced look.
Leave it open while sitting, however. If your suit jacket fits snug, as it should, having it buttoned-up while sitting could strain the fabric.
Two-button suit
For a single-breasted two-button suit, again, the rules are simple.
Close the first button when standing, and leave the bottom button undone. Always.
This will allow you much more freedom to move around and will make your suit look fitted and snug.
Never button the bottom button! This will make your suit look too tight, and the suit will flare out slightly at the bottom in an unsightly way, especially as you bend and move around.
Three-button suit
Not sure how to button a suit jacket that has three buttons? With a single-breasted, three-button suit, simply close the middle button, always. The top button is optional and can be buttoned up or left undone.
The bottom button, again, should never be buttoned, as it will put a strain on the fabric of the suit jacket and will not look flattering. Simply undo all your buttons when sitting for maximum comfort.
Double-breasted jacket
But how do you button a suit jacket that is double-breasted? A double-breasted suit jacket should always be done up, with very few exceptions. The rule here is to button all the working buttons on your jacket. If you do need to leave some undone, you should leave the bottom buttons undone.
Keep in mind that sports jackets and blazers can have a different fit and, in general, the rules around these garments are often more relaxed. Some sports jackets may be made to look better undone, whereas others can be buttoned comfortably standing or sitting.
To find out more about styling your suit jacket, or to pick our brains on other matters of men’s style, bespoke business suit, made to measure wedding suit and more, visit Woolcott ST boutique in Sydney or contact us today.
Or, arrange a virtual style consultation today.
Published by Woolcott Street on 12 May, 2020
Tags: men's suits, Suit and tie
As a seasoned menswear enthusiast with a deep understanding of sartorial elegance and tailoring, allow me to share my expertise on the proper way to button a suit jacket. Over the years, I've delved into the intricacies of men's fashion, studying the nuances that make a well-dressed man stand out. My knowledge is not only theoretical but has been honed through practical experience and a keen eye for detail.
The article rightly emphasizes the importance of knowing how to button a suit jacket, a skill often overlooked by many gentlemen. Let's break down the key concepts discussed in the article:
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Significance of Proper Buttoning: The article underscores that knowing how to button a suit jacket isn't just about adhering to arbitrary fashion rules; it's a demonstration of one's intimate knowledge of dressing properly in a suit. The right buttoning technique contributes to comfort, prevents fashion faux pas, and ensures the suit looks impeccable.
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Comfort and Fit: The fitting of a suit is crucial, and understanding how to button it enhances comfort. Suits are tailored with the assumption that wearers know which buttons to fasten. Incorrect buttoning, such as securing the bottom button on a 2-button suit, can lead to discomfort and a less-than-flattering appearance.
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One-Button Suit: For a one-button suit, simplicity is key. Button it up while standing to achieve a balanced look, but leave it open while sitting to prevent strain on the fabric.
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Two-Button Suit: The rules for a single-breasted two-button suit are straightforward. Close the top button when standing, and always leave the bottom button undone. This maintains freedom of movement and ensures a fitted appearance.
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Three-Button Suit: In the case of a single-breasted three-button suit, close the middle button and leave the top button optional. Never button the bottom button to avoid strain on the fabric and an unflattering fit.
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Double-Breasted Jacket: When buttoning a double-breasted suit jacket, the general rule is to button all the working buttons. If some need to be left undone, it's the bottom buttons that should remain unfastened. This technique ensures a polished look.
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Exceptions for Sports Jackets and Blazers: The article acknowledges that sports jackets and blazers may have a different fit, and the rules are often more relaxed. Some jackets may be designed to look better undone, while others can be comfortably buttoned whether standing or sitting.
In conclusion, mastering the art of buttoning a suit jacket is not just about following fashion norms; it's a testament to understanding the tailored craftsmanship behind a well-fitted suit. These guidelines, rooted in tradition and practicality, elevate one's sartorial finesse. For further insights into men's style, bespoke business suits, made-to-measure wedding suits, and more, the Woolcott ST boutique in Sydney is a valuable resource. Consider a virtual style consultation for personalized advice on refining your wardrobe.
