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The Complete Guide to Men’s Suit Styles: Everything You Need to Know

Are you interested in learning what makes suits look different? Let’s find what makes them and choose the perfect suit for you. Get ready to turn heads and leave a lasting impression.

Suits on Racks in Store

Suits are not just any clothes; they are a statement of style, class, and sophistication. Men’s suit styles changed a lot over the years, and with a handful of styles, cuts, and details available, choosing the perfect suit can be a time consuming task.

In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of suits, including single-breasted, double-breasted, three-piece, two-piece, the tuxedo, and the different variations of them.

We also try to explain the major cuts like the British, American, and Italian. Additionally, we’ll look at specific details like lapels, vents, and trouser styles to help you make informed choices for any occasion.

The 3 Suit Types

Slim Fit Suit

A slim fit suit features a narrower cut through the chest, waist, and leg, providing a sharp, tailored appearance. This modern style is ideal for those who prefer a sleek, fresh look.

It’s suitable for a range of events, from business meetings to stylish social gatherings. We recommend a slim fit suit to most people; if you are on the bulkier side, you should check out a more relaxed, classic fit.

Man Navy Blue Suit White Sneaker Outfit
A young man wearing a slim fit navy suit with sneakers

Classic Fit Suit

The classic fit suit offers a more relaxed, roomy silhouette, providing comfort without compromising on style. It’s characterized by a traditional cut with the perfect amount of space in the chest, waist, and leg areas.

This versatile suit is perfect for many occasions, including formal events and professional environments.

Alain Delon Wearing a Suit and Sunglasses While Smoking
Alain Delon wearing a classic cut suit

Modern Fit Suit

Finally, if you are somewhere in between, this is the one for you. The modern fit suit strikes the perfect balance between the slim and classic fits, offering a tailored appearance with a bit more room for movement.

It’s a versatile choice, suitable for a wide range of events, making it a staple in many men’s wardrobes.

Man Wearing a Navy Blue Suit with Red Tie
A man wearing a navy blue double breasted modern fit suit with a red tie and a white shirt

The Most Common Suit Cuts

British Cut

Colin Firth in a Navy Double Breasted Suit
Colin Firth Wearing a Navy Double Breasted Suit

The British cut is characterized by its structured shoulders, suppressed waist, and double vent at the back. It offers a more conservative, tailored look, often associated with traditional British tailoring houses like Savile Row.

This cut is favored for its timeless elegance and understated refinement.

American Cut

Jon Hamm and John Slattery in Mad Men
Jon Hamm (on right) and John Slattery (on left) in Mad Men

The American cut, also known as the “sack cut,” is defined by its natural shoulders and straight silhouette. It provides a more relaxed, roomy fit compared to other cuts.

This style is popular in the United States and is known for its comfort and practicality, making it suitable for everyday wear in professional settings.

Italian Cut

Pinstripes Suit with a Tote Bag

The Italian cut is renowned for its sleek, slim fit, high armholes, and minimal to no padding in the shoulders. It embodies a more contemporary, fashion-forward aesthetic.

Italian suits often feature bold patterns and vibrant colors, reflecting Italy’s reputation as the “mecca” of fashion. This cut is favored by those seeking a modern, European-inspired look.

Suit Lapel Styles

Notch Lapel vs Peak Lapel vs Shawl Lapel © Suits Expert

Notch Lapel

The notch lapel is the most common style, featuring a small notch where the collar meets the lapel. It’s a versatile choice suitable for both formal and informal occasions, making it a popular option for everyday wear.

Shawl Lapel

The shawl lapel is characterized by a continuous, rounded lapel that creates an elegant, streamlined look. It’s commonly found on tuxedos and is reserved for the most formal of events, such as black-tie affairs and galas.

Peak Lapel

The peak lapel features pointed, upward-facing lapel edges, adding a touch of flair and formality to the suit. This style is often found in double-breasted suits and is favored for its commanding presence in formal settings.

Suit Jacket Details

Single Breasted Suit

A single-breasted suit has a single row of buttons down the front, offering a clean, streamlined look. It’s a versatile choice suitable for a wide range of occasions, from business meetings to weddings.

Double Breasted Suit

Double-breasted suits are known for their overlapping front flaps and two parallel rows of buttons. They exude sophistication and are often favored for formal events and business settings.

Unstructured Blazer

An unstructured blazer is characterized by its lack of padding and lining, providing a more relaxed, casual appearance. It’s a great option for achieving a laid-back yet polished look.

Patch Pocket Blazer

A patch pocket blazer features pockets made from the same material as the jacket, giving it a more casual, outdoorsy feel. This style is excellent for adding a touch of personality to your outfit.

Suit Vent Styles

A suit vent is a slit on the backside of a men’s jacket. Its main purpose is to prevent the material from creasing or bunching up, and allows for comfort, and ease of movement.

Italian American and British Suit Vents
Vent styles are often associated with the cut of a suit.

No Vent

Suits with no vents have a seamless back, providing a sleek, modern look. While not as common as vented styles, they can be found in more fashion-forward designs. They are usually associated with more fitting Italian cut suits.

Single Vent Suit

A single vent is a slit in the back of the jacket that allows for ease of movement. It’s a classic choice and provides a clean, tailored appearance. It is usually associated with American cut suits.

Double Vent Suit

Double vents feature two slits at the back of the jacket, offering even more room for movement and comfort. This style is well-suited for those who are frequently on the go. It is often associated with British cut suits.

Trouser Styles

Flat Front Pants

Flat front pants have a clean, smooth front without any pleats. They offer a modern, streamlined look and are well-suited for slim- and modern-fit suits.

Pleated Pants

Pleated pants have folds or pleats at the waistband, providing extra room and comfort. They offer a more relaxed fit and are well-suited for classic fit suits.

Cuffed Pants

Cuffed pants feature a folded-up hem at the bottom, adding a touch of elegance to the overall look. This style is often associated with more formal suits and is a classic choice for business attire.

Spezzato: Mastering the Art of Mix and Match

Once you master the basics, you should learn about combining styles. Spezzato is Italian for “broken,” it revolutionizes men’s fashion with its mix-and-match approach. Achieving that by breaking away from conventional suit sets, allowing personalized combinations of blazers, trousers, and accessories.

Slim fit dark blue and gray mixed combined double breasted two piece mens suit with peak lapels

The key lies in harmonizing colors, patterns, and textures, creating dynamic yet matching outfits. By combining formal and casual elements, spezzato achieves a unique, modern look that reflects individual style.

Experience the pinnacle of elegance with the latest suit design for men, blending the latest trends with timeless sophistication.

Keep on reading: Glow Up Tips For Men To Be Their Best Versions

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The Complete Guide to Men’s Suit Styles: Everything You Need to Know
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The Complete Guide to Men’s Suit Styles: Everything You Need to Know
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Dive into the world of men's suit styles with our comprehensive guide! From classic to modern styles, discover the perfect fit for every occasion.
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Midway Gentleman
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