Double-breasted suits for men epitomize a timeless elegance that has evolved from prestigious beginnings as garments for the elite to become a cornerstone of the modern gentleman’s wardrobe. These suits—with their distinctive button arrangements and sharp lapels—have a storied past that is as fascinating as the styles themselves.
The signature look of men’s suits with double-breasted designs is immediately recognizable. They are a natural fit for ceremonial occasions such as weddings and black-tie events, yet their versatility has made them a suitable choice for professional settings.
To embrace the double-breasted style is to wear a piece of history. This suit’s journey from naval uniform to a symbol of sophistication underscores its lasting appeal. In this blog, we chart the course of this enduring garment.
Military origins
Originating as part of the British Royal Navy’s uniform in the 19th century, the double-breasted suit has military roots. Initially designed for practicality, the reefer jackets worn by naval officers featured a double row of buttons to guard against harsh weather. This functional design caught the eye of the civilian population, leading to its widespread adoption—especially after the Duke of Windsor popularized it in the 1920s.
Icons of elegance
The 1920s to the 1930s marked a significant shift for double-breasted suits for men as they became the garb of choice for Hollywood’s elite. The era’s fashion icons wore them with a panache that transformed these suits into emblems of style and sophistication. Despite a slightly more relaxed fit and broader lapels than their predecessors, these suits maintained an aura of refinement.
The power suit era
Men’s suits with double-breasted jackets enjoyed a resurgence in the 1980s, epitomizing the ‘power suit.’ With pronounced shoulders, wide lapels, and striking pinstripes, they became synonymous with the era’s high-flying businessmen and were immortalized in popular culture as the attire of choice for the ambitious.
Contemporary revival
In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in men’s suits with double-breasted jackets, but with a nod to contemporary tastes. The modern double-breasted suit has a softer silhouette, slimmer lines, and a subtler style, making it suitable for a variety of settings, from the boardroom to social events.
Today, double-breasted suits for men are available in a spectrum of styles to cater to every preference. From timeless colors like navy and charcoal for formal occasions to more adventurous shades for casual wear, the double-breasted suit has also embraced less structured designs for a relaxed yet refined look.
Double-breasted suits for men continue to be a symbol of elegance and style. Whether you’re seeking a classic look for a special occasion or a modern twist for your daily attire, it remains a superb choice. With its rich heritage and adaptive design, it’s a garment that not only honors tradition but also celebrates individual style.
Selecting your suit
Men’s suits with double-breasted jackets are a specialty at Suit Secret, where you’ll discover an array of styles, sizes, and hues, each at an attractive price point. Constructed from premium materials and sculpted to fit like a glove, these suits promise a finish that’s both polished and distinguished. Check out Suit Secret’s double-breasted suits for men.
Iskra Banović is our seasoned Editor-in-Chief at BlueFashion. She has been steering the website’s content and editorial direction since 2013. With a rich background in fashion design, Iskra’s expertise spans across fashion, interior design, beauty, lifestyle, travel, and culture.
