Differences Between Double-Breasted Suits vs. Single-Breasted Suits

Published on October 25, 2024

Men's light blue green single breasted suit jacket and women's olive green double breasted blazer

Double-breasted suits and single-breasted suits offer distinct styles and structures, each suitable for different occasions and preferences. Double-breasted suits typically convey a heightened sense of formality with their overlapping front panels and two parallel rows of buttons, while single-breasted suits feature a more straightforward design with a single row of buttons down the center. In this article, we'll delve into the differences between these two suit types, exploring their unique characteristics, appropriate occasions, and styling tips to help you choose the perfect suit for any event.

Key Takeaways

Understanding the differences between single and double-breasted suits is crucial in choosing the right attire for specific occasions.
Single-breasted suits are versatile and easy to wear, making them suitable for both professional and casual settings.
Double-breasted suits exude formal elegance and sophistication, making them ideal for special occasions that need a more elevated feel.
Regardless of the style, between single or double-breasted suits, getting your proper sizing for a great fit is central to a polished look for any occasion.

What Is a Double-Breasted Suit?

Man wearing black pinstripe double-breasted suit for fashionable formalwear and street style

Detail of men's double breasted jacket 6-button front in tan suit color

A double-breasted suit is a classic style of menswear design distinguished by its overlapping front panels and two parallel rows of buttons. Typically, it features a peak or notch lapel and can be worn with either a two-button, four-button, or six-button configuration, with the four-button option being the most common and standard.

In the history of men’s suits and beyond, the double-breasted suit dates back to the early 19th century, when it was popularized as military attire before transitioning into civilian fashion. Double-breasted suits are generally considered more formal than their single-breasted counterparts, making them suitable for business settings, formal events, and occasions that call for especially polished, refined, or fashionable style. They exude sophistication and elegance, making them an excellent choice for evening events, weddings, and other formal gatherings.

What Is a Single-Breasted Suit?

Detail of olive green double-breasted suit jacket for men with vest and dress shirt

Men wearing teal suit on city street for menswear style or special event

A single-breasted suit is a classic style of men's formalwear characterized by a front closure with a single row of buttons. It typically features a notch or peak lapel and can come in various configurations, such as two-button or three-button styles. This suit style has been a staple in men's fashion for centuries, originating in the early 19th century as a practical and versatile choice for everyday wear. Single-breasted suits are versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them suitable for a wide range of occasions. They are generally considered less formal than double-breasted suits, making them appropriate for both professional settings and semi-formal events. Single-breasted suits are often the go-to choice for business attire, interviews, daytime weddings, and other occasions where a polished yet approachable appearance is desired.

What Are the Differences Between a Single vs. Doubled-Breasted Suit?

When it comes to men's suiting and tailored style for women and everyone, the choice between a single-breasted and double-breasted suit can significantly influence one's overall look and style. These two popular suit styles boast distinct characteristics that set them apart, catering to different preferences and occasions. Understanding the key differences between single and double-breasted suits can help individuals make informed decisions when selecting the perfect ensemble for any event or setting.

Jacket design

The primary distinction between single and double-breasted suits lies in their jacket design. Double-breasted suits feature two parallel columns of buttons on the front, creating a distinctive overlapping closure. In contrast, single-breasted suits have a single row of buttons down the center. Additionally, double-breasted suits typically sport peak lapels, characterized by their pointed ends that ascend toward the shoulders, exuding a bold and formal aesthetic.

On the other hand, single-breasted suits commonly feature notch lapels, which are characterized by a small notch where the lapel meets the collar, offering a classic and versatile look suitable for various occasions. In terms of fit, double-breasted suits tend to provide a more structured and tailored silhouette, emphasizing the chest and waist, while single-breasted suits offer a sleek and streamlined profile, providing a more relaxed and versatile fit.

Formality

Double-breasted suit jackets are inherently perceived as slightly more formal than their single-breasted counterparts due to their construction and details. The overlapping front panels and parallel rows of buttons add an extra layer of sophistication and structure to the garment, elevating its formality. This heightened formality makes double-breasted suits particularly suitable for occasions requiring a refined and dignified appearance, such as formal or black-tie events.

While single-breasted suits, such as the classic men's black suit or men's navy blue suit, are versatile and appropriate for various settings, double-breasted suits exude an air of elegance and sophistication that lends itself well to formal affairs. The structured silhouette and bold lapel design of double-breasted jackets contribute to their elevated formality, making them a favored choice for those seeking to make a polished and distinguished impression.

Body types and fit

The true difference between double-breasted and single-breasted suits is the design and structure. These details can impact style preferences and, yes, lead to formality levels. While anyone can wear either style or both, you can also let your body type direct you toward a cut that may suit you best. Ultimately, though there are guidelines, both double-breasted and single-breasted suit jackets are absolutely open to any body type or individual.

For double-breasted suits, the recommended body types include those with athletic builds or individuals who are taller or leaner. The structured design of double-breasted jackets lends itself well to accentuating the shoulders and creating a sleek silhouette. Ideally, the jacket should hug the shoulders without pulling or bunching, and the length should extend to the top of the rear, ending just below the hip. This fit emphasizes the wearer's height and elongates the body, contributing to a polished and refined appearance.

Conversely, single-breasted suits are versatile and suitable for most body types due to their simpler design and single column of buttons. They can be particularly flattering for shorter and stockier builds or fuller-figured wearers. The jacket should fit well in the shoulders and chest, following the body's natural lines without being too tight or loose. The sleeves should end toward the tops of the wrists, allowing for ease of movement while maintaining a tailored look. This fit ensures a balanced and proportionate appearance, enhancing the wearer's silhouette regardless of body shape or size.

For any style, SuitShop's Fit Finder and Fit Guide ensure that you’ll find the proper sizing for a perfect fit to suit your body type.

Versatility

Single-breasted suits offer unparalleled versatility, seamlessly transitioning from formal to casual settings with ease. Their simpler design and classic aesthetic make them adaptable for a variety of occasions, ranging from business professional attire to more relaxed business casual settings. Pairing a single-breasted suit with slacks or dress pants creates a polished and professional look suitable for the office or formal events. However, what truly sets single-breasted suits apart is their ability to be dressed down for more casual occasions. The suit jacket can be worn as a separate piece, allowing for effortless mixing and matching with other wardrobe staples. This versatility makes single-breasted suits a staple in any man's wardrobe, offering endless styling possibilities for a range of events and settings.

In contrast, double-breasted suits are inherently more formal, making them ideal for occasions that demand a heightened level of sophistication and elegance. While they may not be as versatile as single-breasted suits, double-breasted suits excel in conveying a sense of refined style and authority. They are well-suited for business professional attire, formal events, and occasions where a polished appearance is paramount. Pairing a double-breasted suit with dress pants or slacks creates a commanding and distinguished look, perfect for boardroom meetings or black-tie affairs. While double-breasted suits may not lend themselves as readily to casual wear, their undeniable presence and formal appeal make them a timeless choice for those seeking to make a lasting impression in any formal setting.

Friends wearing matching women's lavender suits, one with a single-breasted cut and one double-breasted women's suit

Single vs. Double-Breasted Suit FAQs

There are various pros and cons of double-breasted suits that are important to weigh to determine whether this suit style option is right for you. Some of the pros of double-breasted suits include:

Traditional elegance: Double-breasted suits exude a timeless and traditional elegance that can make a powerful style statement. The overlapping front panels and parallel rows of buttons create a sophisticated and distinguished appearance, perfect for formal occasions.
Distinct Look: The unique design of double-breasted suits sets them apart from their single-breasted counterparts, offering a distinct and distinguished look that commands attention. This bold aesthetic can elevate any outfit, making it ideal for those seeking to make a memorable impression.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind when it comes to double-breasted suits. Cons include:

Less versatile: Compared to single-breasted suits, double-breasted suits are generally less versatile in terms of styling options. Their formal appearance may limit their suitability for casual or business casual settings, making them less adaptable for a variety of occasions.
Restrictive fit: The structured construction of double-breasted jackets can sometimes feel restrictive, particularly for individuals with broader shoulders or larger chests. While this tailored fit contributes to the suit's polished appearance, it may also feel less comfortable for some wearers, especially during extended periods of wear.

Similar to double-breasted suits, there are pros and cons to weigh when considering single-breasted suits. Pros of single-breasted suits include:

Versatile and easy to wear: Single-breasted suits are incredibly versatile and can be effortlessly dressed up or down to suit a variety of occasions. Their simple yet classic design makes them easy to style and suitable for both professional and casual settings.
Widely accepted: Single-breasted suits are the standard in men's suiting and are widely accepted across different industries and social settings. Their universal appeal makes them a go-to choice for everything from business meetings to weddings.

However, there are several cons of single-breasted suits, including:

Less formal: While suitable for many occasions, single-breasted suits are generally perceived as less formal than their double-breasted counterparts. This may limit their suitability for very formal events or black-tie affairs where a more traditional and formal look is desired.
Less distinctive: Due to their ubiquitous nature, single-breasted suits may lack the distinctiveness and impact of double-breasted suits. They may not stand out as much in a crowd and may not make as strong of a style statement as double-breasted suits.

When deciding between a single and double-breasted suit, consider the occasion and level of formality. Single-breasted suits are versatile and suitable for a wide range of events. They can be dressed up with a tie and dress shoes for semi-formal or formal occasions like weddings, business meetings, or evening events requiring men's cocktail attire. Additionally, single-breasted suits can be dressed down with a collared shirt and loafers for more casual settings or business casual attire.

On the other hand, double-breasted suits are best reserved for formal occasions where a heightened sense of elegance and sophistication is required. They are particularly well-suited for formal weddings, ceremonies, black-tie events, and other occasions demanding men's formal attire. The structured design and traditional aesthetic of double-breasted suits make them a standout choice for events where making a strong style statement is essential.

For single-breasted suits, accessorize strategically with ties, pocket squares, and cufflinks to inject personality into your ensemble while keeping it professional. Experiment with textures and patterns for added visual interest, but keep it tasteful to maintain a polished look. Consider pinning a boutonniere to the lapel for a touch of elegance, and always ensure a perfect fit by visiting a tailor for adjustments. Stick to classic color combinations and silhouettes for timeless elegance that never goes out of style.

When styling double-breasted suits, opt for classic accessories like silk ties and elegant cufflinks to complement the sophistication and formality of double-breasted suits. Focus on achieving a perfect fit across the shoulders and chest, and keep the rest of the outfit understated to let the suit's bold design shine. Experiment with lapel pins or brooches for added elegance, and consider pinning a boutonniere for a subtle yet refined touch.

Choosing Between Single vs. Doubled-Breasted Suits

In the timeless debate between single and double-breasted suits, understanding their distinct characteristics is key to making the right choice for any occasion. Single-breasted suits offer versatility and ease of wear, perfect for both professional settings and casual events. On the other hand, double-breasted suits exude formal elegance, making them a standout choice for special occasions that demand a heightened sense of sophistication.

At SuitShop, we offer a wide range of affordable suits to suit every style and occasion. Our Fit Finder and Fit Guide ensure that you find the perfect fit, whether you opt for a single or double-breasted suit. Trust SuitShop to provide quality suits that elevate your look for life's most important moments.