Written by Tanya Zhang

Suit Lapels – The Basics

Lapels are an important aspect of men's suits, as they can significantly affect the overall look and feel of the outfit and how you pair it with your dress shirt. Here are some basics to know about suit lapels:

1. Types of Lapels: There are three main types of lapels: notch lapels, peak lapels, and shawl lapels and we'll go a little deeper into them later in this article.

2. Width of Lapels: Lapel width can vary depending on personal preference and fashion trends. Generally, the lapel width should match the width of the tie, and a good rule of thumb is to keep the lapel between 2.5 and 3.5 inches wide.

3. Lapel Buttonhole: Many suits feature a buttonhole on the lapel, which can be used to attach a boutonniere or simply as a decorative element.

4. Suit Styles: Different suit styles may feature different lapel styles. For example, a double-breasted suit typically features peak lapels, while a tuxedo may feature shawl lapels.

5. Material and Texture: The material and texture of the suit can also affect the appearance of the lapels. For example, a suit made from a lightweight fabric may feature narrower lapels, while a suit made from a heavier fabric may have wider lapels.

Overall, lapels are an important aspect of a suit, and jacket lapels can be customized to suit personal preferences and styles. Pair it with an oxford shirt or a classic white dress shirt.

Notch Lapel or Notched Lapel

(This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 2.5 Generic License.)

A notch lapel is a common style of lapel found on men's suits and jackets. It gets its name from the V-shaped notch that is created where the lapel meets the collar. The notch lapel is a versatile and classic style that can be found in a wide range of suit styles and fabrics. More about how to buy a suit in our other guide.

Notch lapels are usually considered more casual than peak lapels, which have a more formal and dramatic appearance. The width of the notch can vary depending on personal preference and fashion trends, but it is typically a subtle detail that adds a touch of style to a full suit jacket, without being too showy.

The notch lapel is a timeless style that has been popular for decades, and it remains a popular choice for both business and casual occasions. It pairs well with a variety of tie knots and can be worn with both single-breasted and double-breasted suits.

Peak Lapel

(This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 2.5 Generic License.)

A peak lapel is a style of lapel found on men's suits and jackets that features a pointed upward shape of skinny lapel that extends towards the shoulder. It gets its name from the pointed shape of the lapel that resembles a mountain peak.

Peak lapels are generally considered more formal and dressy than notch lapels. They are often found in double-breasted suits, tuxedos, and other formal attire. Peak lapels have a more dramatic and eye-catching appearance than notch lapels, and they can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to a suit.

The width of a peak lapel can vary depending on personal preference and fashion trends, but it is typically a wider lapel than a notch lapel. The width and height of the peak lapel can also affect the overall appearance of the suit, with taller and wider peaks giving a more prominent and bold look.

Overall, peak lapels are a classic and timeless style that can add a touch of sophistication and formality to any suit or jacket. They are a popular choice for formal occasions, but peaked lapels can also be worn in more casual settings for a dressy and stylish look.

Shawl Lapel

(This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 2.5 Generic License.)

A shawl lapel is a style of lapel found on men's suits and jackets that features a continuous, rounded lapel with no notches or points. It is typically found on tuxedos and other formal evening wear and has a sleek and elegant appearance that adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. The Swedish School of Textiles' "The Next Wave of the Suit-era" thesis also refers to this type as the contemporary lapel.

The shawl lapel is a classic and timeless style that has been popular for many decades. It is often made from satin or other high-shine fabrics that give it a luxurious and formal look. The lapel wraps around the collar and continues down the front of the jacket, creating a smooth and continuous line that is both elegant and stylish.

Overall, the shawl lapel is a classic and sophisticated style that adds a touch of elegance and refinement to any formal outfit.

Other Suit Lapel Types

In addition to these main lapel styles, there are also variations and combinations of these styles. For example, a notched lapel with a peak-like pointed end is sometimes referred to as a "fishmouth lapel", while a shawl lapel with a peak at the shoulders is sometimes called a "peak shawl lapel". And satin lapels are popular for prom night. Ultimately, the choice of a peak or shawl lapel style will depend on personal preference, the occasion, and the overall style of the suit.

How To Choose A Lapel Style For Your Suit Or Tux

Choosing the right lapel style for your suit or tuxedo can be an important part of creating a polished and put-together look. Here are some tips to help you choose the right lapel style for your outfit:

1. Consider the occasion: For formal events like weddings or black-tie events, a peak lapel may be more appropriate, while a notch lapel is suitable for more casual or business settings.

2. Consider your body type: The width and style of the lapel should complement your body type. If you have a smaller frame, a narrower lapel may be more appropriate, while a wider lapel can balance out a larger frame. Make sure you know how a suit should fit your body type.

3. Consider the style of the suit or tuxedo: The lapel style should be consistent with the style of the suit or tuxedo. For example, a peak lapel is typically found on double-breasted jackets, while a notch lapel is more commonly found on single-breasted jackets.

4. Consider the accessories: The lapel style should also complement the accessories you plan to wear, such as ties or pocket squares. For example, a peak lapel may be more appropriate for a bow tie, while a notch lapel may be better suited for a traditional necktie. (Here's how to tie a bow tie.)
   
   
   

Overall, choosing the right lapel style for your suit or tuxedo is an important part of creating a polished and cohesive look. By considering the occasion, your body type, the style of the suit, your personal style, and the accessories you plan to wear, you can choose the perfect lapel style to complete your outfit.

Where to Wear Peak Lapel Suits?

Peak lapel suits are generally considered more formal and dressy than notch lapel suits, and they are the suit jackets often worn to formal occasions such as weddings, black-tie events, and other formal events. They are particularly well-suited for double-breasted suits, tuxedos, and other formal attire.

Peak lapel suits can also be appropriate for business occasions that require a high level of formality, such as important meetings, presentations, or conferences. However, it is important to consider the overall style and dress code of the event or workplace before wearing a peak lapel suit, as it may be considered too formal for more casual settings.

Overall, peak lapel suits are a classic and sophisticated style that can add a touch of elegance and refinement to any formal outfit. They are particularly well-suited for formal occasions and business events that require a high level of formality, and they can help to make a strong and confident fashion statement.

What is a Lapel Pin?

A lapel pin is a small decorative pin that is worn on the lapel of a suit jacket or blazer. Lapel pins come in a variety of styles and designs, and they can be used to express personal style, political or social affiliations, or to commemorate a special event or achievement.

Lapel pins are often made of metal, and they can feature a wide range of designs, from simple geometric shapes to intricate logos or designs. They can also feature enamel coating, gemstones, or other decorative elements to add visual interest.

Lapel pins are typically worn on the left lapel of a suit jacket or blazer, and they can be attached using a small pin and clasp or a magnet. They are often used to add a touch of personality or flair to a formal outfit, and they can be a conversation starter or a way to show support for a cause or organization.

Overall, lapel pins are a small but impactful accessory that can add a touch of personality and style to a suit or blazer. They are a great way to express individuality and can be a meaningful way to commemorate a special event or achievement.

Frequently asked questions about what is a lapel

Which is better notch lapel or peak lapel?

Notch lapels are more common and versatile than peak lapels, and they can be worn on the slim lapel for a wide range of suit styles and occasions, from business meetings to more casual events.

Ultimately, both notch lapels and peak lapels have their own advantages and can look great when paired with the right suit and accessories. The choice between the two narrow lapels will depend on personal preference, the occasion, and the overall style that the wearer is looking to achieve.

Are peak lapels more formal?

Peak lapels, on the other hand, are less common and more formal than notch lapels. They are often found on tuxedos, double-breasted suits, and other formal attire, and are well-suited for more formal occasions like weddings or black-tie events.

Which lapel is most formal?

Peak lapels are typically considered to be more fashionable and stylish than notch lapels, and they can help the wearer to make a bold and more confident fashion statement. Peak lapels are considered more formal clothing.

Is a notch lapel for business?

Notch lapels are generally considered to be more conservative and classic in style and can be used for business attire.