Two-Button Or Three-Button Suit?

Whether you’re buying your first suit or just updating your wardrobe, the question of whether you should buy a suit with one, two or three buttons will likely be one of your biggest dilemmas. Your lifestyle, body type and the trend factor of the garments themselves all play a role in determining which style of suit you’ll want to shell out the cash for. To ensure you’re purchasing the right suit for your body and your current wardrobe needs, we’ve broken down the rules for the who, what, where, and when of wearing one-button, two-button or three-button suits — of the single-breasted variety.

The three-button suit

Best for: The three-button suit is an excellent option for men taller than six feet because the buttons on the jacket reach higher up on the chest, making it more comfortable and visually appealing on taller men. The three-button suit jacket is also an option for waistcoat enthusiasts. Trend factor: A three-button suit has a ‘60s-mod feel to it. Accordingly, it has recently made a comeback with several influential designers showing three-button suits in their fall 2009 collections. Although they are not as timeless as their two-button cousins, three-button suits are relatively trend-proof — so long as you purchase a classic-cut model.
How to wear it: The recent trend for wearing three-button suits has been to fasten the top two buttons, but this can make the lapels on some suits appear unusually short, and you run the risk of appearing somewhat awkward. If you don’t naturally have an abundance of confidence, close only the middle button for an elegant look. Whatever you do, never close the bottom button; doing so will distort the drape of the fabric. Additionally, though you will never do up all three buttons because it will create a stiff look, you should be able to close the buttons on a good suit without pulling or stretching the fabric.
When/where to wear it: Three-button suits are a good alternative to two-button suits for office wear, particularly if you’re looking to stand out slightly from everyone else in the style department.

The two-button suit

Best for: The two-button suit is the universal standard because its frame-lengthening properties complement virtually all builds, and it has an enduring, classic appeal. If you have a short torso, two-button suits are also the best way to go. Trend factor: An impeccably tailored two-button suit that lacks unnecessary extras is timeless, so it won’t ever go out of style. However, you’ll want to replace it every five years to make sure your look stays current. If you don’t own a suit or you only keep one at a time in your closet, a two-button suit is a must for you.
We continue to demystify the two-button or three-button suit dilemma, and even talk about the one-button suit…

 How to wear it: Only fasten the top button on the blazer when you want to wear your jacket closed. Some modern versions of the two-button suit feature buttons that are positioned higher on the jacket to create a compromise between two- and three-button suits. These contemporary models can be especially flattering, so pay attention to details like button placement when you’re shopping for your suit.
When/where to wear it: If you’re buying a ready-made suit rather than having one custom-made, invest in a two-button suit because it’s really hard to go wrong with this style, even when you’re searching for an inexpensive option. Two-button suits are appropriate as work wear as well as for more formal occasions.

The one-button suit

Best for: Men with lean frames who want to appear stylishly sleek should check out one-button suits. However, avoid splurging on this suit; if you already own several two- or three-button suits, you won’t wear the one-button suit as often. Trend factor: Hugely trendy at the moment and for autumn 2009, one-button suits have made a huge resurgence in popularity. If you’re contemplating buying one, bear in mind that they are not appropriate for all occasions and you may be much more limited in terms of where and when you can sport this suit.
How to wear it: When you’re standing up, the button on the blazer should always be fastened. To avoid an unsightly drape, the reverse is true when you’re sitting down. Also, be sure to choose your shirt and tie combination wisely when donning a one-button suit because the low break of the jacket means more of your ensemble is on display.
When/where to wear it: Think jazz-age smooth and break this suit out when a swish evening of picking up glamourous women in glittering nightclubs is in your future. In short, this suit is one you wear for pleasure to appear smoking hot and incredibly suave at the same time, and not because a dress code requires you to wear one.

whatever suits you

Particularly if you’re not fond of suits, shopping for one can be a harrowing experience. There are so many factors to ponder, beginning with how many buttons your blazer should have. Now that we’ve demystified one-, two- and three-button suits, you know that your lifestyle, your budget and your body type all play a role in determining which direction you should take when it comes to suits. We’ve taken you one step closer to getting the perfect fit, all without even having stepped foot in a shop.