Single Breasted vs Double Breasted Suits: Which Style Suits You Best?

In this guide, we'll dive into the world of single-breasted vs double-breasted suits. We'll explore their history and unique features. You'll get tips on choosing the perfect suit for your body type and taste. Whether you're preparing for a formal event, a business meeting, or simply looking to elevate your everyday look, this guide is your ultimate resource for mastering the art of suiting up with confidence and flair.

What Defines a Suit?

The modern suit has a fascinating history, evolving through different eras and styles. It all started in the early 19th century when fashion influencer Beau Brummell introduced a more understated, tailored look, moving away from the elaborate clothing of previous centuries. The Victorian era saw the emergence of the morning coat and frock coat, setting the stage for modern suits.

In the early 20th century, the single-breasted suit emerged as a relaxed alternative to formal frock coats. By the 1940s and 1950s, it became the go-to choice for business attire, focusing on practicality and streamlined design. Think of Cary Grant’s timeless elegance in old black-and-white movies.

Meanwhile, the 1930s and 1940s saw the double-breasted suit rise to prominence, symbolizing sophistication and power. Hollywood stars like Humphrey Bogart and Clark Gable wore them with charm and authority. However, post-World War II, fashion shifted towards minimalist styles, favouring the simpler single-breasted suits.

The 1980s brought a bold revival for both styles. Single-breasted suits featured broader shoulders and slimmer cuts, echoing the power suits from Wall Street and early 90s pop culture. Double-breasted suits also made a comeback with broad shoulders and a power-dressing aesthetic, seen in shows like "Miami Vice."

In recent years, single-breasted suits have embraced contemporary fits and fabrics, making them versatile for various occasions. Double-breasted suits have become sleeker and more tailored, appealing to a new generation of fashion-forward individuals. Picture celebrities and influencers on the red carpet, blending classic appeal with modern twists.

This evolution highlights how both single-breasted and double-breasted suits have adapted to changing styles while maintaining their core essence. Whether channelling Cary Grant’s timeless elegance or the bold power-dressing of the 1980s, these suits remain a timeless choice for those seeking a blend of tradition and contemporary style.

Today, single-breasted suits come in a variety of styles and fits to suit different tastes and occasions. The slim fit offers a closer cut to the body, providing a sleek and contemporary look, while the classic fit offers a more traditional and comfortable fit, suitable for a wide range of body types. Some modern designs even incorporate elements of double-breasted suits, such as peak lapels or additional buttons, for a unique twist on the classic single-breasted style.

The single-breasted suit is highly versatile and can be worn for various occasions. It is ideal for professional settings such as business meetings, interviews, and office wear, conveying professionalism and confidence.

Depending on the fabric and style, single-breasted suits can also be dressed down for more relaxed events like dinners or social gatherings. For formal events, with the right accessories and fabric, single-breasted suits are perfect for weddings, galas, and other special occasions, especially when paired with a tie or pocket square.

Explore the best custom-made single-breasted Suits of 2024 here.

Aspect	Single Breasted Suits	Double Breasted Suits
Button Configuration	Single row of buttons (one to three buttons)	Two parallel rows of buttons (6x2, 4x2, or 6x1 configurations)
Closure	Single set of buttons, simple and sleek appearance	One functional set of buttons, other set decorative, creating a layered look
Overlap	Minimal overlap of jacket flaps, streamlined silhouette	Significant overlap of jacket flaps, providing a structured appearance
Versatility	Highly versatile, suitable for casual to formal occasions	More formal, ideal for business and formal settings
Aesthetic	Clean and contemporary look, fits traditional and modern styles	Bold and assertive appearance, associated with high fashion and classic elegance
Formality	Adaptable to various levels of formality, from business casual to black-tie events	Generally higher formality, suitable for business meetings, weddings, and formal gatherings
Fit and Comfort	Relaxed fit with greater flexibility and ease of movement	Structured and tailored fit, emphasizing chest and shoulders
Suitable for Body Types	Suitable for a wide range of body types, providing a flattering silhouette	Best for those who prefer a more fitted and formal appearance, though modern fits are more comfortable
Common Button Configurations	One button (formal evening wear), two buttons (most popular), three buttons (traditional)	6x2 (traditional), 4x2 (less formal), 6x1 (unique and contemporary)
Suitable Occasions	Business meetings, interviews, office wear, casual and semi-formal events, formal events	Business meetings, formal events, weddings, power dressing
Accessories	Can be styled with different accessories to match the formality level	Often worn with ties, pocket squares, and other formal accessories to enhance sophistication

Maintenance and Care for Suits

Proper maintenance and care are essential to keep your suits looking sharp and prolong their lifespan. Here are some tips for caring for both single-breasted and double-breasted suits:

Regular Cleaning

Dry Cleaning: Avoid frequent dry cleaning as it can wear out the fabric. Instead, spot clean minor stains and dry clean only when necessary.
Brushing: Use a suit brush to remove dust and dirt after each wear. This helps maintain the fabric's appearance and prevents buildup.

Storage

Hangers: Always use wide, padded hangers for single-breasted suits and sturdy, broad-shouldered hangers for double-breasted suits. This supports the suit's shoulders and maintains its shape.
Garment Bags: Store your suits in breathable garment bags to protect them from dust, moths, and humidity while allowing air circulation.

Pressing and Steaming

Ironing: Use a steam iron on a low setting to remove wrinkles. Place a pressing cloth between the iron and the suit to avoid direct heat contact. Focus on wrinkle-prone areas like lapels and shoulders.
Steaming: A garment steamer can gently remove wrinkles and freshen up your suit without damaging the fabric.

Rotation

Alternate Suits: Avoid wearing the same suit consecutively. Rotate your suits to allow each one to rest and recover, extending their lifespan.

By following these care and maintenance tips, you can ensure that both your single-breasted and double-breasted suits remain in excellent condition, ready to impress at any occasion.