Single-Breasted Suits vs Double-Breasted Suits

A common question that we get asked is: What is the difference between a single-breasted and double-breasted suit? Knowing the difference can make all the difference when choosing the right style for the occasion.

Professionalism and Perception

Single-breasted suits are more common and versatile

• They usually have 1-3 buttons
• They can have notch, peak, or shawl lapels
• They create a slimmer silhouette

Double-breasted suits are not as common, but are considered more stylish and bold

• They usually have 4-6 buttons
• They usually feature peak lapels
• These can work on a range of builds when the shoulders, waist, and jacket length fit well

Historical and Fashion Trends

Did you know the single-breasted suit has military roots? The military jackets the British Navy wore in the 18th Century had a single column of buttons! According to GQ Magazine, Beau Brummell, an Englishman in the 1800s, may have been one of the first to wear a simple top and pants combination. Suits we know today started becoming more mainstream for business in the early 20th century. We gave a little more history on Brummell in our Men's Secret Weapon article!

Double-breasted suits, on the other hand, were originally very casual suits. They have always swayed in and out of people's interests. When they started being made in the late 1800s, most men wore them as leisure jackets to play sports in. Wikipedia says double-breasted suits didn't become a popular everyday fashion choice until the 1920s and 1930s, thanks to The Duke of Windsor, Edward VIII. But since they struggled to stay relevant, the need for double-breasted suits dwindled in the 1950s and disappeared in the 1960s. They came back stronger than ever in the 1980s and stayed in the hearts of many ever since!

Social and Professional Context

Single-breasted suits are versatile; they can be worn for a large variety of events. They can be worn to:

• Job Interviews and Meetings in the Office
• Formal Events like Weddings
• Casual Settings like Parties

Double-breasted suits are now considered more sophisticated. They can be worn to:

• Formal Events like charity events
• Corporate Events
• Galas, when the invitation allows a suit. Black tie calls for a tuxedo; a double-breasted business suit is not a substitute.