How to Wear A Double-Breasted Suit « Sharp - Canada's Magazine for Men Sharp – Canada's Magazine for Men

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June 2013

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How to Wear A Double-Breasted Suit

Double-Breasted Suits

<b>Designer:</b> Corneliani
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<b>The Gist:</b>
Take a break from the typical neutrals and go for something with a little bit of colour to add some warmth to your look. When going with this approach, stick to classic silhouettes and simple styling. The colour will speak for itself and be all the pop you need. Remember that balance is key, you don't want to go overboard.

<b>Designer:</b> John Varvatos
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<b>The Gist:</b>
If colour isn't your thing, then try a subtle pattern. Popular on the runways this season, the windowpane check is an easy look for pattern novices to try out. Clean, simple and classic - you can't go wrong.
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When buying a double-breasted jacket, make sure it fits properly to avoid a boxy look. Leave the bottom button undone for ease of movement and the internal button done up to retain form.

<b>Designer:</b> Viktor & Rolf
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<b>The Gist:</b> Head-to-toe black can fall anywhere from slick to stagehand. Texture is the key to putting yourself on the favourable end of the spectrum. This leather jacket is ribbed for visual pleasure.

<b>Designer:</b> Valentino
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<b>The Gist:</b> If Steve McQueen were alive today, we’d likely see something like this in his closet. Swap out your sport coat for a structured black leather jacket to look the part of the polished badass. Don't be afraid to wear it over your suit and tie combo for a nice contrast in aesthetics.

<b>Designer:</b> Trussardi
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<b>The Gist:</b>
For something with a more rugged edge, try a belted number like this one from Trussardi. It's all kinds of bad ass and doesn't look like you're trying too hard. For an even more laissez-faire look, tie your belt instead of doing it up. Style your leathers with colours that will complement it to complete that effortless look.

<b>Designer:</b> Hermés
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<b>The Gist:</b> Though the price tag might suggest otherwise, a great coat is invaluable. This overcoat can look just as good, if not better, with a pair of jeans and a crew neck at brunch as it does over a suit from nine to five. Make an investment.

<b>Designer:</b> Burberry Prorsum
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<b>The Gist:</b>
Double-breasted coats were just as popular as double-breasted jackets in Milan, as demonstrated by this look by Burberry Prorsum. Undoubtedly the king of sophisticated outerwear, Burberry gives us an overcoat in a camel tone that's as much a winter staple as black and gray. The coat looks great when paired with warm colours and appears much more refined than its neutral brethren.
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While we encourage you to add a little pop to your outfits, avoid the animal prints. They're hard to pull off even for the experts and often end up looking tacky.

<b>Designer:</b> Hugo Boss
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<b>The Gist:</b> If you're itching for something different, you can also try items that are made from unconventional fabrics or different finishes. While the silhouette still maintains its classic integrity, it's the material that will really help you stand out (in only the best way possible.)

<b>Designer:</b> Hugo Boss
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<b>The Gist:</b> This duffel coat from Hugo Boss is a nice modern take on the classic outerwear piece. Set yourself apart from the rest of the sheep with pieces that offer subtle tweaks on standard sartorial items.

Prints, Patterns and Colours

<b>Designer: </b> Gucci
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<b>The Gist:</b> Remember what we <i>just</i> said about not overdoing it? We still stand by our word. Unless you're an absolute expert in style and have the swagger to pull this look off, we recommend taking it apart and wearing the pieces as separates. Go ahead and wear the jacket, but contrast it with solid, neutral pants to tone down the pattern. The same is also true for the pants by wearing a simple shirt, sweater or jacket on top. The point is to have fun with patterns and to not be afraid of going a little bold, just be cautious when you're going about it. Again, confidence is key.

<b>Designer:</b> Valentino
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<b>The Gist:</b> A classic check suit takes a youthful turn layered with a saturated hue. Pick a thin crew neck for a sporty vibe that doesn’t give the impression your wearing pads underneath.

<b>Designer:</b> Hermés
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<b>The Gist:</b> A jolt of colour south of the waist line is unexpected. Keep it tame elsewhere to let the pants do the talking, and seek out a slim cut that’s more New Wave than Nantucket.

<b>Designer:</b> Gucci
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<b>The Gist:</b>
When mixing colours and patterns, make sure that both are subtle to avoid straining your eyes. A powder blue windowpane, while not for everyone, is an elegant option for those wanting to step it up a notch. The look lends itself to a <i>Mad Men</i>-esque vibe that would look great with a crisp white shirt and neutral tie.

<b>Designer:</b> Dries van Noten
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<b>The Gist:</b> This one is more about inspiration than emulation. For novice print mixers, stick with classic shades and start off small with a printed pocket square in your check jacket.

<b>Designer:</b> Calvin Klein Collection
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<b>The Gist:</b> On those warmer days where a jacket is too warm and a sweater is too cold, try layering a down-filled vest overtop your outfit or blazer for a look that's just right.

<b>Designer:</b> Valentino
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<b>The Gist:</b> When it comes to fur, more is only more if you’re hunting seals for sustenance. A fur game is all about restraint, and this is about as restrained as it comes. (Bonus: you’re less likely to come home wearing red paint.)

<b>Designer:</b> Louis Vuitton
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<b>The Gist:</b> Dinner jackets need not be black. Consider changing up your black tie with midnight blue. It’s an elegant alternative that still plays by the rules. Plus, you’ll look like your having more fun wearing it.

<b>Designer:</b> Gucci
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<b>The Gist:</b>
Reinterpret the tuxedo with a shawl collar and a textured wool fabric. The black cuff and collar do well to accentuate the look and emphasize the formality of the look. When paired with a classic black bow tie, you can't go wrong. While a little more youthful and casual, with the rolled pant cuffs and dress boots, it's something that will do nicely for your next holiday or New Year's party.

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