How to Wear: Lapels

So you've decided you want to wear a suit jacket to an event, but can't decide which type of lapel is best for you? You have come to the right place, this guide will answer all of your questions. Today we will be exploring two of the different options when it comes to lapels. Peak or Notch? It's time to find out. 
 


All in all, "lapel" is just a fancy word for the two flaps that sit below the collar on either side of a suit jacket. You may have not noticed the different types of lapels before, but these two pieces of fabric can make all the difference to how the suit looks. Therefore, it is important to make sure that you make the correct choice. Read on to find out which lapel is right for you!

 

The Notched Lapel

The notched lapel is sewn onto the collar of a jacket at an angle resulting in a triangle forming between the two pieces of fabric (like ">" and "<"). This results in the notched lapel being referred to as a 'fish-mouth'. The notched lapel is by far the most common lapel found on suits, due to its highly versatile nature. This versatility allows for the notched lapel to be worn in both casual and professional looks. The notched lapel is always a safe choice and looks great on all of our suits.

 

The Peaked Lapel

The peaked lapel stays true to its name, forming a 'peak', with the lapel pointing upwards. Unlike the notched lapel, the peak lapel is all business and no party. The peaked lapel looks great on all of our suits and is perfect for more formal affairs. This 'peak' gives the suit a sharp and classy look which actually helps to make you look taller and slimmer. The peaked lapel is a great way to stand out at any formal event!

 

The Buttonhole

Other details on your lapel you might be wondering about are buttonholes. Why do you have a buttonhole yet there is no button on the opposite side? There are 2 different stories to explain this feature - the first one being that in years gone by when you bought a hat it came with an elastic string with a button on the end, which you attached to the buttonhole on your lapel preventing your hat from flying away in the wild Scottish winds. The second more credible sounding explanation was that when Prince Albert married Queen Victoria, she presented him with a small bouquet on their wedding day and he, like the gentleman he was, cut a hole in his lapel to hold the flowers. Today the common use for a buttonhole in Scotland is to hold a sprig of heather or a thistle on your wedding day. A current trend is to stitch the buttonhole in a contrasting colour which as you can imagine works beautifully with tartan - pick out one of the bold colours and make a statement.

 

Now that you know the difference between peaked and notched lapels, and understand the uses and choices for your buttonhole choosing your new jacket should be easy! With over 500 tartans available you're spoiled for choice, and we are of course here to help if you need some guidance.