A Deep Dive into the Various Types of Men’s Suits

In men’s fashion, the suit symbolizes sophistication and style. From classic to contemporary styles, each offers a unique silhouette and statement. Our exploration takes us deep into the world of men’s suits, revealing a wealth of different types, styles, and the art of choosing the perfect outfit. MrGuild’s expertise and innovative approach have reshaped the landscape of men’s fashion, offering a diverse array of suit styles that cater to individual preferences and occasions. 

Originating from the refined tastes of 19th-century English socialite Beau Brummell, the suit represents the fusion of clothing and artistry. Brummell’s influence on precise tailoring laid the foundation for today’s sophisticated outfits. The suit’s journey traverses Victorian opulence to Edwardian flair, evolving from frock coats to relaxed lounge suits that mark a shift in eras. In the 20th century, the suit changed its shape, fabric, and style to match the evolving culture. It transformed into a canvas for creative expression, reflecting dynamic societal developments.

Understanding Different Suit Styles

With each suit style possessing unique attributes tailored to various occasions and personal preferences, the following sections will provide in-depth insights into each category. Gaining insight into these distinct suit categories allows for an astute selection process, ensuring that each man can find his sartorial match amidst an array of options. Here’s a breakdown of the distinct characteristics of each style, including the latest trending suit styles that are capturing the scene in men’s fashion: 

Classic/Traditional Suits

Classic/traditional suits are fundamental in men’s formal wear. Known for their timeless appeal, they balance comfort and sophistication. These suits have a versatile design suitable for various dress codes and occasions. Thanks to their breathable construction, they provide an elegant and polished appearance while ensuring comfort.

Slim-Fit Suits

Slim-fit suits have surged in popularity due to their contemporary, tailored look. Meticulously designed to sit snugly against the body, these suits emphasize the chest and waist while tapering along the rest of the frame. The outcome is a sleek, modern appearance that aligns with formal occasions and a more casual, fashionable approach. Slim-fit suits bridge the gap between trendsetting design and comfort, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a stylish edge.

Modern/Contemporary Suits

Modern or contemporary suits reflect a departure from convention, embracing fashion-forward elements and innovative concepts. These suits often showcase slimmer cuts, unique lapel styles, and unconventional fabric choices. They cater to individuals who wish to make a statement while maintaining a formal appearance. Modern suits offer a fresh perspective on classic attire, making them perfect for those who desire a combination of modern trends and traditional sophistication.

Double-Breasted Suits

For occasions demanding heightened formality, the double-breasted suit takes the spotlight. Distinguished by its overlapping front flaps and two parallel columns of buttons, this style exudes a commanding presence. Its structured design and refined aesthetics make it an impeccable choice for black-tie events and upscale gatherings. The double-breasted suit seamlessly marries enduring elegance with a sense of authority, epitomizing dignified dressing.

Two-Piece Suits

A two-piece suit consists of a nicely fitting jacket and pants that match. It typically includes notched or peak lapels, several buttons, structured shoulders, and flat-front pants with a classic straight leg. These suits are highly versatile and suitable for various occasions, such as business meetings and weddings, depending on the fabric, color, and style.

The fit of a two-piece suit can range from classic to slim, allowing you to choose the style that best suits your body shape and preferences. These outfits are popular in professional settings for their sharp and reliable impression. A well-tailored two-piece suit in an appropriate color can also be a stylish option for grooms and wedding guests. Moreover, separating the jacket and trousers enhances the suit’s versatility, as you can mix and match them. For a smart-casual look, pair the suit jacket with jeans.

Three-Piece Suits

The three-piece suit enhances the standard two-piece ensemble by including a waistcoat (vest). This extra layer of formality introduces visual interest while offering a pathway for personal expression via fabric and pattern choices. The three-piece suit represents polished dressing and is an excellent fit for formal events seeking a heightened level of refinement. Its inclusion adds depth to the outfit, making a statement of sophistication.

Tuxedos/Black-Tie Suits

Tuxedos, synonymous with black-tie attire, represent the pinnacle of formal dressing. Men typically reserve these suits for prestigious events like weddings and galas. They feature satin or grosgrain lapels, buttons, pocket trim, and a satin stripe on the trousers. Tuxedos adhere to stringent guidelines for formal dress, embodying the highest echelons of sophistication and respect for tradition. Wearing a tuxedo showcases an understanding of the most refined levels of dress code.

With an array of styles, including classic, slim-fit, and modern options, MrGuild ensures that every man can find his ideal fit.

Exploring Suit Fabrics and Patterns

The interplay between fabric and pattern weaves a narrative of style and personality. From the versatility of wool to the comfort of cotton, the breezy charm of linen, and the luxurious opulence of velvet, each tells a unique story. The choice of fabric plays a pivotal role in defining not only the overall look of the suit but also its comfort, durability, and appropriateness for different occasions. In this section, we dive into the characteristics that define them and their impact on a gentleman’s appearance. MrGuild’s mastery in blending suit patterns, fabrics, and accessories transforms each suit into a work of art. 

Popular Suit Fabrics

In this exploration, we’ll delve into popular suit fabrics, from the timeless elegance of wool and the comfort of cotton to the breezy allure of linen and the luxurious touch of velvet.

Wool

Wool is the foundation of men’s suiting fabrics, valued for its versatility and refined look. Its natural breathability adapts to various temperatures, making it suitable for both warm and cold climates. Lightweight wool suits summer, while heavier variants offer winter warmth. They smoothly transition from formal to business to semi-casual occasions, adding sophistication. Wool’s soft texture and elegance elevate any outfit. Types like tweed, flannel, and worsted provide diverse textures and finishes. Wool’s durability allows it to endure frequent wear while maintaining its shape and appearance, making it a valuable and long-lasting investment.

Cotton

Cotton suits offer affordable elegance with a notable crease that enhances their appeal. Despite lacking wool or linen drape, high-quality cotton suits exude sophistication and comfort, particularly in warmer conditions. They are versatile for office, casual, and outdoor settings, presenting a more relaxed drape than wool. A defined crease is crucial for a polished look in the trousers. Moreover, their low-maintenance nature allows for machine washing, making cotton suits a practical choice for daily wear.

Linen

Linen, derived from the flax plant and considered a “vegetable fabric,” is a popular summertime choice. Embracing its natural tendency to wrinkle is part of the fabric’s charm, contributing to a comfortable yet sophisticated look. Linen suits are best suited for casual and semi-formal occasions. Their relaxed aesthetic effortlessly blends style and comfort. Regular steaming or light ironing can help manage wrinkles without compromising their appeal.

Velvet

Velvet, woven from silk, cotton, and nylon, is renowned for smoking jackets and its opulent texture. While less frequent than wool or cotton, velvet suits offer a striking option for special occasions. These suits are reserved for formal events, and their lavish appearance comes from a dense yet breathable weave, which ensures comfort even during extended wear. The lustrous surface of velvet complements accessories, providing a canvas to showcase distinctive ties, pocket squares, and lapel pins.

Different Suit Patterns

Men’s suit patterns offer a captivating spectrum of choices, each with its history, style, and adaptability. Incorporating various suit patterns into your wardrobe allows you to adapt your attire to different settings and express your unique style. Here are some popular suit patterns that cater to different tastes and occasions:

Pinstripes

Pinstripes symbolize power dressing and corporate refinement. These fine lines epitomize authority and prestige. The spacing and width of the pinstripes significantly impact the pattern’s effect. A navy or charcoal suit adorned with off-white pinstripes spaced 5/8″ apart is a hallmark choice for business settings.

Pinstripes seamlessly blend formality with style. Their professional appeal suits boardroom meetings, conferences, and formal events. Their understated charm also allows adaptation to more relaxed occasions when combined with suitable accessories.

Checks

Checks encompass a diverse array of patterns, each with its unique charm. Gun Club checks present a lively mix of colors in a complex, repeating pattern, infusing vibrancy, and character. Prince of Wales checks exhibit classic sophistication through the more prominent grid, while Windowpane checks, resembling window panes, offer a balanced and visually captivating pattern. These versatile check patterns seamlessly transition between formal and semi-formal occasions. Gun Club checks add a touch of personality to business casual attire, while Prince of Wales and Windowpane checks suit weddings, parties, and social gatherings.

Herringbone

Herringbone, known for its distinctive V-shaped weave, carries a rich heritage from Scottish shepherds’ attire. This pattern not only adds visual texture but also exudes tradition. Herringbone suits offer a refined texture that stands out without excessive flair. Effortlessly balancing sophistication and style, herringbone patterns suit both formal and semi-formal settings, showcasing a blend of elegance and texture. With its depth and complexity, this pattern is an excellent choice for events requiring a touch of class.

Basketweave

The basketweave pattern mimics woven basket textures, embodying meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. Its subtlety lies in its ability to enhance visual interest without overwhelming. Basketweave suits find a harmonious blend of texture and elegance, making them suitable for business meetings, formal gatherings, and semi-formal events. 

Birdseye

Birdseye patterns, composed of small diamond shapes with central dots, exude an understated yet visually captivating allure. This intricacy imparts fabric depth without relying on bold colors or large motifs. Birdseye suits are elegantly versatile, effortlessly adapting to various occasions. Their subdued charm makes them ideal for business meetings, evening affairs, and weddings. The pattern’s subtlety accommodates personal style while preserving an air of sophistication.

Chequered

Chequered patterns, formed by alternating colored squares, deliver a bold and visually impactful look. These suits cater to individuals unafraid of expressing their unique style. Chequered patterns range from large squares to intricate designs. Their versatility commands attention, making them ideal statement pieces for creative industries, social gatherings, and parties. While not conventional in corporate settings, chequered suits can strike a harmonious balance between boldness and refinement when paired with subtle accessories.

Graph

Graph-patterned suits are inspired by graph paper, featuring horizontal and vertical lines forming small squares. This contemporary pattern appeals to fashion innovators seeking a modern aesthetic. These suits stand as symbols of individuality and creativity, finding their place at events that blend formality and innovation, like modern weddings, art exhibitions, and creative business gatherings. They let wearers stand out while preserving a sense of sophistication.

Houndstooth

Houndstooth, rooted in Scotland’s weaving heritage like herringbone, features unique broken checks, setting it apart from other patterns. It balances tradition and individuality. Houndstooth suits offer a timeless, versatile style that blends vintage charm with modern allure. Perfect for formal events, meetings, and social gatherings, the intricate design adds texture, appealing to those who value the blend of history and fashion.

Pin Striped

Pin-striped suits elevate the traditional pinstripe by using finer, closer stripes, adding subtle texture for standout elegance without excess. These suits balance formal pinstripe aesthetics with contemporary elements, effortlessly shifting from professional meetings to social gatherings for a polished, versatile look.

Plain

Plain suits featuring solid colors and no patterns exude refined elegance. Their blank canvas encourages imaginative accessorizing and styling. These suits provide limitless opportunities for personal expression, adapting effortlessly to various occasions. From formal functions to relaxed get-togethers, plain suits let accessories like ties and pocket squares shine, thanks to their understated charm.

MrGuild’s collection offers high-quality, stylish suits as well as affordable options to suit different preferences.

Suit Jacket Styles

Discovering the true nature of a suit’s personality involves understanding the complex array of jacket styles. Here, we will explore the various facets of suit jacket styles, contrasting single-breasted with double-breasted designs, examining lapel variations like notch, peak, and shawl lapels, and evaluating the characteristics of both two-button and three-button jackets.

Notch Lapel, Peak Lapel, and Shawl Lapel Styles

Lapel styles are categorized into three primary forms, each profoundly influencing a suit jacket’s overall impression and level of formality:

Notch Lapels: The conventional choice for business suits and classic jackets, featuring a small notch where the lapel and collar meet. This design offers versatility and a polished look.

Peak Lapels: Associated with higher formality, are often seen on tuxedos and professional suits. Their upward-pointing peaks project elegance and refinement.

Shawl Lapels: Characterized by seamless lapel-collar integration, these lapels are unique to black-tie ensembles, adding an element of sophistication.

Single-Breasted vs. Double-Breasted Jackets

Single-breasted and double-breasted jackets differ primarily in their button arrangements. Single-breasted jackets feature a single row of front buttons, while double-breasted ones showcase two rows. This button distinction significantly shapes the jacket’s appearance, creating unique styles and silhouettes.

Single-breasted jackets work for different occasions, like business meetings and semi-formal events. They work well for less formal weddings, office settings, and social gatherings. Conversely, double-breasted jackets excel as choices for formal weddings, black-tie events, and other special occasions, providing a refined and commanding presence.

Two-Button vs. Three-Button Jackets

Button quantity on a suit jacket impacts formality. With two buttons, the jacket achieves a versatile yet elegant look suitable for various occasions. Opting for three buttons leans toward a more casual single-breasted style. The higher top button placement yields short lapels and a distinctive upper opening. This arrangement offers a visually intriguing choice, blending unconventional flair with a hint of formality.

A two-button jacket is suitable for both formal and semi-formal events. In contrast, a three-button jacket is ideal for creative industry events, art gallery openings, and gatherings embracing unconventional styles.

Suit Trouser Styles

The right pair of trousers can elevate your overall look, striking a harmonious balance between style and functionality. Your selection of suit trousers speaks volumes about your style, physique, and the message you aim to project. Gain insights from MrGuild’s expertise as we delve into the nuances of pivotal suit trouser styles: Flat-Front vs. Pleated, Slim-Fit vs. Regular-Fit, and Cuffed vs. Uncuffed.

Flat-Front vs. Pleated Trousers

Flat-front pants adopt a contemporary, minimalist approach with unembellished front panels. These trousers offer a streamlined, sleek look without the folds of their pleated counterparts. Although a recent trend, they’ve gained popularity for their sharp and youthful aesthetic. These pants flatter slim and regularly shaped bodies, embodying a tailored look that resonates with modern sensibilities.

Conversely, pleated trousers showcase artful folds below the waistband, enhancing both structure and movement. These folds gracefully expand the fabric, ensuring ease of motion and preventing strain on seams. Pleats blend functionality with fashion, offering a strategic advantage for individuals aiming to balance their physique. Ideal for those with larger or more muscular builds, this style provides a refined fit that caters to various body types.

Slim-Fit vs. Regular-Fit Trousers

The debate over slim-fit versus regular-fit trousers centers on your desired silhouette and comfort. Slim-fit pants follow a close contour down to the ankles, embodying a modern look that suits a balanced physique. In contrast, regular-fit trousers feature a looser cut, affording more space around the seat and thighs. While not as snug as the slim-fit trouser style, regular-fit pants provide extra flexibility and exude a timeless, classic appeal. Ultimately, your decision between these styles hinges on your preferences and the dress code of the occasion.

Cuffed vs. Uncuffed Trousers

As we wrap up this segment, let’s touch on the unique details of cuffed and uncuffed trousers. Cuffed pants showcase extra folded-back fabric at the hem, adding sophistication and a traditional flair. This style hearkens back to classical times, lending refinement to your outfit. On the flip side, uncuffed trousers embody simplicity with a clean finish and no extra fabric. The choice between cuffing and non-cuffing defines the formality and personality of your ensemble.

With each creation, MrGuild continues to shape the way men perceive themselves and their sartorial choices, leaving an indelible mark on the world of men’s fashion.

Men’s Suit Accessories

A well-fitted suit marks the starting point for crafting a distinguished look; however, carefully chosen accessories breathe life into an outfit, transforming it from ordinary to extraordinary. The graceful knot of a tie or the subtle glint of cufflinks each fulfills a crucial role in curating an ensemble that exudes confidence, style, and sophistication.

Dress Shirts and Ties

The dress shirt lays the foundation, serving as a canvas that establishes the tone for the entire ensemble. Crisp whites and soft pastels radiate classic elegance, whereas patterned designs encompass everything from understated stripes to intricate checks, enabling you to customize your outfit according to the occasion. Following that is the tie.

Ties come in diverse fabrics like silk and wool, with varying patterns and widths. Solid-colored ties embody timeless versatility, whereas bold prints, dots, and paisleys introduce an element of playfulness or formality. The synergy between dress shirts and ties becomes the canvas for your individuality to shine.

Pocket Squares and Cufflinks

 Pocket squares, those deceptively small fabric swatches, resemble an artist’s brushstrokes, introducing flair, color, and texture to the suit jacket. Whites and subtle pastels retain their classic appeal, while more daring shades or intricate patterns make a confident statement. Whether neatly folded or playfully puffed, these squares bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, captivating attention with their understated grace. While silver and gold remain timeless options, gemstones, enamel, and novelty designs provide an opportunity to showcase your style.

Belts, Suspenders, and Braces

Despite being associated primarily with aesthetics, accessories also serve functional purposes. Belts, suspenders, and braces step into the scene to both secure items and finalize the look with finesse. Classic black and brown leather belts offer versatility, while exotic leather choices and statement buckles inject a dash of personality. Suspenders and braces, once relics of the past, have made a modern comeback, infusing a touch of vintage charm and highlighting a man’s flair for the distinctive. Subdued colors like navy, black, and gray exude sophistication, whereas patterned or boldly colored options convey individuality.

MrGuild’s legacy is about clothing and empowering men to embrace their unique style and confidence.

Choosing the Right Suit for Different Occasions

From distinguished business formals to elegant wedding attire and innovative casual suits, our journey will redefine how you perceive and present yourself through men’s suits. MrGuild’s extensive range of suits caters to a myriad of occasions, ensuring that men are impeccably dressed in the best suits for any event.

Business/Formal Suits

Classic suits are the foundation of men’s formal wear, versatile enough for different dress codes and occasions, such as corporate meetings, conferences, or formal events. A well-fitted classic suit radiates confidence and professionalism. Choose solid colors like navy, charcoal, or black for a polished look, pairing them with a white dress shirt and tasteful tie. In trendy workplaces, slim-fit suits bring a modern edge while preserving a professional appearance. Ideal for making a statement with style.

Wedding Suits

Traditional weddings call for classic or slim-fit suits in gray or navy, complemented by coordinating ties or pocket squares. A tuxedo is the highest level of sophisticated clothing for formal or black-tie events. Choose black for a traditional look, or try midnight blue for a modern twist.

Casual/Informal Suits

Suits, known for formality, can also channel casual charm and style. Smart casual wear involves a light suit jacket with chinos or dress trousers, refined yet tie-free, ideal for easygoing business meets or cultural events. Modern suits encourage creative expression with distinctive lapels, unique fabrics, and sleek cuts, fitting for artistic gatherings or presentations.

Tips for Proper Suit Fitting

Every man deserves confidence in a suit that fits like a second skin. Here, we explore the art of proper fitting, emphasizing accurate measurements and offering insights into game-changing alterations and tailoring techniques.

Importance of Proper Measurements

Central to a perfect suit are exact measurements. Tailors catch nuances that automated methods may miss. Keep in mind that your posture and stance affect how a suit drapes over your body. Stand naturally and comfortably when getting measured. Our blog post, ‘The Ultimate Guide to Men’s Suit Size Charts: How to Get the Perfect Fit,’ delves into sizing intricacies, guiding you through the suit journey.

Alterations and Tailoring Tips

Tailoring allows you to customize the suit to your body’s unique proportions, ensuring that every detail aligns harmoniously.

Prioritize the Jacket: The jacket is the centerpiece of your suit ensemble. Ensure that it fits snugly across your shoulders without pulling or sagging.

Trousers That Flatter: Trousers play a pivotal role in your overall look. A well-fitted pair should sit comfortably at your waist without needing a belt to hold them up.

Embrace the Waist: Tailoring can also address any excess fabric around the waist. A jacket and trousers that taper slightly towards the waistline create a slimming effect.