I was curious as to your opinion on a peaked lapel versus a notched lapel for a single breasted suit jacket. I have always favored the notched lapel as I find it to be more classic. Within my wardrobe, I have relegated peaked lapels to the domain of double-breasted jackets. What are your thoughts?
The peak lapel is a positively rakish way to stand out in modern menswear. It creates a more formal, vintage look. Done right, it slims and adds height to a silhouette.
For dressing formally in today’s menswear scene, I personally prefer the look of peak lapels only with double breasted jackets. That’s just my preference on the overall visual balance of the suit. The notch lapel is a more timeless style, too. I have confidence that when I invest in a notch lapel suit, I don’t run the risk of it going out of style in a few seasons.
That being said, there are men doing the peak lapel, single breasted jacket right. There’s something a bit throwback about it, like David Suchet as Hercule Poirot. Its association with Art Deco, martinis, and swing music is an exciting twist on contemporary menswear. Look to Tom Ford, Brooks Brothers, and Ralph Lauren for style inspiration on pulling off the look.
Nicholas Hoult in Tom Ford (2019)
Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot, portrayed here by David Suchet, famously adhered to the peak lapel suit long after it had gone out of style post-World War II.
