Find out why two breasts are better than one
Double breasted suits are back. Not that they ever really went away. This classic style of tailoring has been around for a century now, but it's enjoying a surge in popularity of late. And we're not complaining. We're big fans of the air of elegance and rakish sophistication a double breasted suit brings to the function, and we think you will be too if you give it a chance.
Unfortunately, a lot of men avoid double breasted suits, perhaps out of a lack of familiarity. If you're the type of guy who rarely dabbles in tailoring, a single breasted suit is probably what you feel most comfortable in. But if you dare to step outside of your comfort zone, you can really kick your formalwear game up a gear.
Maybe you're thinking of buying your first double breasted suit. Or perhaps you're just trying to find out how to button one. Either way, yhttps://www.velasca.com/products/furore-blliou'll find everything you need and more right here.
Table of Contents
- Find out why two breasts are better than one
- What Is a Double Breasted Suit?
- Are Double Breasted Suits in Style?
- How to Wear a Double Breasted Suit
- How to Button a Double Breasted Suit
- The Best Brands for Double Breasted Suits
What Is a Double Breasted Suit?
A double breasted suit, first and foremost, features overlapping front panels and an extra row of buttons, which sets it apart from the single-breasted suit. Typically, the design includes four to six buttons on the front, with two functional buttons that fasten the jacket. This overlapping structure creates the suit’s iconic, tailored look.
Traditionally, double breasted suits exude a more formal feel due to their sharp, structured silhouette. However, modern versions now come with more relaxed cuts, softer shoulders, and more casual fabric options. It's symptomatic of the ongoing casualisation of tailoring as a whole. As a result, men can wear them across a wider range of occasions. Whether you’re attending a black-tie event or donning your smart-casual attire, a double breasted suit adds elegance and authority.
Are Double Breasted Suits in Style?
Yes, double breasted suits have firmly returned to style. In fact, designers have reimagined this classic silhouette, tailoring it to meet the needs of the modern man. While the boxy, formal suits of the 80s once dominated, they have since evolved into sleek, streamlined versions that fit closer to the body. Therefore, this modern approach makes the suit suitable for both casual settings and professional environments.
Both fashion houses and high-street brands have embraced the double breasted suit, proving its staying power. Whether in traditional wool or lighter fabrics like linen, this style brings a polished, sophisticated edge to any wardrobe.
How to Wear a Double Breasted Suit
Wearing a double breasted suit requires balance. First, focus on the fit—this style thrives on structure, so ensure a tailored fit that hugs your shoulders and chest. Next, pair the suit with a crisp, well-fitted shirt in a neutral tone, allowing the suit itself to stand out. For a classic look, stick to monochrome colours or darker tones like navy or charcoal. However, if you want a bolder appearance, try a lighter colour or a subtle pattern to add interest. Finish the look with a slim tie and polished dress shoes, such as Oxfords or loafers.
For a more casual take, you can wear the suit without a tie or pair it with a T-shirt underneath. This has become a popular option in recent years. Ultimately, the double breasted suit, with its versatility, transitions effortlessly from the boardroom to a weekend brunch, as long as you style it appropriately for the occasion.
How to Button a Double Breasted Suit
Mastering how to button a double breasted suit is essential to achieving the right look. Typically, you should fasten the middle button or the top button if the suit has two rows. However, leave the lower button undone, as this prevents the jacket from appearing too tight or restrictive. When sitting, unbutton the suit for comfort, and fasten it again when standing. As a general rule, avoid leaving all buttons undone, since this can make the jacket look sloppy and disrupt its structured form.
The Best Brands for Double Breasted Suits
Velasca
Velasca is best known for its refined craftsmanship and modern approach to classic tailoring. The brand's double breasted suits are made from premium fabrics, offering both comfort and elegance. Velasca focuses on creating well-structured yet relaxed designs that cater to today’s fashion-conscious man. The brand’s attention to detail, including precision tailoring and contemporary cuts, makes its suits a top choice for those looking to add a sophisticated yet stylish double breasted suit to their wardrobe.
Ralph Lauren
Ralph Lauren has long been synonymous with timeless American style, and the label's double breasted suits reflect that heritage. Known for its impeccable tailoring and use of luxurious fabrics, Ralph Lauren offers a range of double breasted suits that are both classic and modern. Whether in a navy pinstripe or a bold plaid, these suits exude confidence and elegance, making them a go-to for formal occasions or a high-powered business setting.
Tom Ford
When it comes to making a statement, few brands do it better than Tom Ford. The brand's double breasted suits are tailored to perfection, with sharp lines and a sleek silhouette. Made from the finest materials, these suits are designed for those who want to turn heads. Whether it’s a classic black wool suit or a more daring velvet version, Tom Ford brings a sense of glamour and high fashion to the double breasted suit category.
Brunello Cucinelli
Brunello Cucinelli is known for its luxurious, understated designs, and its double breasted suits are no exception. Made in Italy from the finest fabrics, these suits combine traditional tailoring with a modern, relaxed fit. The brand’s neutral colour palettes and high-quality construction make these double breasted suits ideal for deep-pocketed men who prefer a more subtle, refined look.
Canali
An Italian powerhouse in men’s tailoring, Canali has a long history of crafting beautifully made suits. The label's double breasted suits are cut to perfection, offering a sharp, polished silhouette. Canali uses luxurious fabrics and pays close attention to every detail, from the fit to the stitching, ensuring that each suit is as comfortable as it is stylish.
Zegna
Zegna’s double breasted suits are all about understated luxury. Made from the finest materials, including the label's signature wool, these suits offer a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. Zegna is known for its expert tailoring, and its double breasted suits are crafted to offer a sleek, flattering fit that works well in both formal and business settings.
Paul Smith
Paul Smith’s take on the double breasted suit combines classic British tailoring with a modern twist. Known for its playful patterns and vibrant linings, Paul Smith suits bring a sense of individuality to the traditional double breasted silhouette. These suits are perfect for men who want to make a statement without sacrificing elegance.
Hugo Boss
Hugo Boss is known for its sleek, contemporary suits, and their double breasted options are no different. Offering a more modern, slim fit, Hugo Boss suits are designed for the fashion-forward man. These suits are perfect for those looking to make a subtle yet powerful statement, whether at a formal event or in a business setting.
Giorgio Armani
Giorgio Armani’s double breasted suits are the epitome of Italian luxury. Known for their relaxed yet classic fit, these suits offer a modern take on the classic double breasted silhouette. Made from the finest fabrics, Armani’s suits are perfect for men who appreciate refined elegance with a touch of contemporary style.
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