If you’ve invested in a proper suit, you should understand how to button a 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 signals confidence, attention to detail and a genuine understanding of formal suit rules in Australia. It also means you’re far less likely to feel stiff or restricted — or worse, commit the classic mistake of popping a button.
And importantly, you’ll be far more comfortable. 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 fasten and which to leave undone. So, if you have the bottom button on a 2-button suit jacket securely fastened, chances are you’ll be uncomfortable. Master how to button a suit jacket properly, and you’ll look sharper and feel better all day.
One-Button Suit
This is by far the simplest option when learning how to button a suit jacket properly.
Simply button up the single-button suit while standing. This aligns with classic suit button rules, giving 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 and distort the shape of your jacket.
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 causes the jacket to flare awkwardly and look too tight, especially when walking or sitting — one of the most common suit mistakes men make.
Three-Button Suit
Not sure how to button a suit jacket that has three buttons? With a single-breasted suit, 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 and drape.
Double-Breasted Jacket
How do you button a suit jacket that is double-breasted? To complete the look, a double-breasted suit jacket should ideally 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 to allow room for movement.
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 the Woolcott St showroom in Sydney or contact us today.
