Suits come with a host of rules, like never fastening the bottom button or ensuring that your shirt cuffs peek out about 1-1.5 cm from under your jacket. But where did these seemingly random guidelines come from?
According to Jan van Teeffelen, Quality Manager at Suit Supply, many of these suit jacket rules have surprising origins. Here are four intriguing facts about suit jackets that you might not know:
Cuff Buttons: Originally for Surgeons
The cuff buttons on suit jackets were designed with battlefield surgeons in mind. These buttons allowed doctors to roll up their sleeves quickly, facilitating easier access during operations. This feature was crucial for surgeons who needed to stay identifiable on the battlefield, as removing their jackets could lead to confusion and increase their risk.
While rolling up the sleeves of a perfectly tailored suit might seem unsightly today, a casual cotton blazer is more suited for this relaxed look.
The Bottom Button Rule and the King of France
The practice of leaving the bottom button of a suit jacket undone is often attributed to King Louis XIV. The story goes that the king, who was quite overweight, found it uncomfortable to fasten all the buttons on his coat during a banquet. Out of respect, the other men at the event followed his lead, and this practice gradually became a standard.
Shirt Cuffs and Suit Durability
In the past, suits were expensive and required meticulous care. To prolong the life of their suits, men would let their shirt cuffs show, avoiding wear and tear on the jacket sleeves from daily activities like eating or writing. This habit became a standard, with the recommendation to have your shirt cuffs extend about 1-1.5 cm beyond the jacket sleeves.
The Practical Purpose of the Lapel Buttonhole
The top buttonhole on a suit lapel was once more than just a decorative feature. It was designed to connect with a button on the opposite side, effectively converting the jacket into a fully enclosed garment. This design helped keep gentlemen warm while riding horses and protected them from the wind.
Comentarios