17 November 2024

The pitfalls of jacket button etiquette!

Ah, jacket buttons – here’s the advice you didn’t know you needed.  It’s where opinions clash, and even the most easy-going lads can find themselves in a buttoned-up debate. But fear not, gents, because button wisdom is here to save the day.

First up, the double-breasted suit. Now, I know they’re a bit less common these days, but let’s be honest, they’re still the bee's knees of jacket looks. For these swanky numbers, it’s straightforward: button them all. Yes, every single one. It’s the rule of sophistication and style. There’s no leaving it undone - it will always look untidy.

Now, onto the more common single-breasted jacket, which comes in two delightful flavours – two-button and three-button. Here’s where things get a tad more intricate. For the two-button variety, it’s simple – the top button is your go-to. It should always be fastened, and the bottom button? Leave it alone, lads. Trust me, it's a fashion faux pas to do it up.

Now, the three-button jacket brings a bit more to the table. The rule of thumb here is a nifty little phrase: sometimes, always, never. Let’s break it down: you can fasten the top button if you fancy, the middle button must always be done up (no negotiations here), and the bottom button? Never, ever fasten it. This isn’t just fashion advice, it’s a sartorial commandment. My own preference is middle button only.

So, whether you’re navigating the classic double-breasted elegance or mastering the single-breasted subtleties, remember these buttoning rules. It’s all in the details, and now you’re armed with the knowledge to win any jacket button debate. Stay sharp and button up right, gents! Finally, the bottom button of a waistcoat should also, always be left undone.

Where did it all come from? Apparently, the waistcoat button being left undone was the courtiers of King Edward VII leaving theirs undone in sympathy with the king, whose portliness was affecting the fit of his suits. Or it could be it just looks better that way!

So, the first post of helpful tips from your friendly North Wales Wedding Photographers. As we post more you'll be able to find related posts linked here.

North Wales wedding photographers covering weddings in North Wales, the Wirrall, Cheshire, Shropshire and throughout the UK.

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