At work and formal events, a young man’s suit style can determine whether the first impression he makes is a good one or a bad one.
What a person wears reveals how well put together they are, and there’s nothing like a tailor-fit classic suit to leave a lasting positive impression.
With so many options available, determining which style fits you best can be challenging. Below, we unravel the mystique behind classic suit styles and identify the best suit styles for young men.
How the classic young men’s suit style evolved
The classic suit styles as we know them all originated in the time of King Charles II, who required attendees of his court to wear an ensemble that included a long coat, waistcoat, cravat and breeches. Throughout the centuries, young men’s suit styles would adapt to improvements in technology, changes in lifestyle and trends in popular culture.
In fact, it was thanks to the young gentleman Beau Brummel that the court uniform was popularised in English society. Beau Brummel used matching muted colours for the three main pieces — the jacket, trousers and waistcoat of the suit — and added a necktie, a trend that lasts to this day.
In the past, it was common for suits to include three pieces made with heavier fabrics. The advent of centralised indoor heating meant fewer layers and lighter materials were used, with frocks and overcoats to supplement the suit as needed.
The length and fit of the suit pieces also changed with trends that highlighted certain parts of a man’s figure: the shoulders, waist and legs. One element that has never altered is how a young man’s suit style reveals details about his status, professionalism and overarching style.
Surprisingly, suits were originally exclusively worn as casual wear. Now, suits are much more diverse and can be worn in both formal and casual settings, with a lot more freedom in the materials and colours used for young men’s suit styles.
Different classic suit styles for young men
- Single-Breasted Two-Button Suit — The most versatile and casual of classic suit styles for young men, this suit is also one of the most popular. The single-breasted jacket is more open and can feature a notch, peak or shawl lapel.
This suit jacket can be styled down with jeans or chinos. But, with a matching pair of trousers and the right suit accessories, it’s every bit as formal as any other young men’s suit style.
If you’re hoping to invest in a versatile bespoke suit, the single-breasted suit is great for smart casual looks and business suits.
- Three-Piece Suit — This is also a popular young man’s suit style that features a third element — the vest or waistcoat. This third piece is worn on top of the dress shirt and under the suit jacket.
The vest pulls the look together, tapering the figure even further. It can be mixed and matched with other coordinated suits or styled down with well-fitted jeans.
- Double-Breasted Suit — This suit style is always formal and features a peak or shawl lapel with four to six buttons. The suit jacket usually has four buttons that almost always remain done up, along with additional fasteners and extra fabric.
They are extremely stylish but aren’t as forgiving or versatile for all figures and occasions. We recommend you always wear them to formal events.
- Tuxedo Suit — This suit style’s main difference is the use of satin facing on the lapels, buttons and pocket trims. They are usually worn with bow ties, but neckties have also become more popular in recent years.
Tuxedos are usually worn on very formal black-tie occasions. This is a very elegant suit and, when styled correctly, can look very sleek and elegant on a young man.
The suit style can send a very different message compared to other styles, especially for a professional that wears other suit styles often. It’s a change from the norm that says you take yourself and the event you’re attending very seriously.
Additionally, the number of buttons on the jacket for each of these styles may vary, but as a good rule of thumb, most suit jackets are designed to leave the bottom button undone.
This is why two-button suits are the most common and arguably more comfortable. You can check our guide on how to button up your suit jackets to learn more.
Completing the look
Aside from suit style, the colour, pattern and choice of fabric material will inform you on which dress shirt, socks, shoes and accessories to wear.
Although accessories are highly dependent on the occasion, we recommend investing in one or two of the following to supplement your suit:
- Ties — Neckties and bowties are a great way to change up a suit, especially if you’re wearing suits often for work. They can also add a pop of colour and personality to your ensemble.
- Pocket Squares — These are also a great way to break up the monotony of your suit and add a pop of colour to your look.
- Cufflinks — We highly recommend having a pair of cufflinks ready to polish off your French cuff shirt on more formal occasions and business events.
Find your perfect fit with Woolcott St.
Present yourself in the best professional light by investing in a Woolcott St. bespoke suit. We offer virtual consultations and travel services for professionals on the go, as well as after-product services to ensure your suit always fits you perfectly.
Let us dress you for any business event or even fit a custom wedding suit for your big day. Book a fitting with us for a completely bespoke attire tailored to your needs.