Men's Three Button Suits

Although, at first, it may seem like a button is the only difference, the jackets silhouette and lapel length is quite different. A two-button jacket has a longer lapel, as it has further to go in order to reach the first button. This creates a more elongated and leaner line through the torso. A three-button suit has a higher button stance with shorter lapels, giving a more upright, conservative appearance. The extra button closes more of the chest, which can suit taller frames particularly well.

The three-button suit was in it's heigh of fashion during the 1990s and early 2000s, before the two-button suit began to gradually take over. However, it remains a legitimate and distinguished choice within a traditional wardrobe, particularly in heavier cloths and more formal contexts.

The traditional rule is 'sometimes, always, never'. The top button is optional, the middle button should always be fastened, and the bottom button is never done up.