Key Takeaways:

• Types of Suit Lapels Explained: Learn the difference between notch, peak, and shawl lapels and what occasions they best suit.
• Choosing the Right Lapel for Your Body Type: Discover how lapel shapes and widths can complement different physiques for a tailored, confident look.
• How to Match Lapels with Formality Levels: Understand which lapel styles align with casual, business, or black-tie events for sharper, more appropriate suiting choices.

The lapel is more than just a piece of your jacket; it’s a visual signature. The right shape can sharpen your frame, elevate your presence, and subtly signal the vibe you're going for, whether it's casually refined or sharply tailored.

But not all lapels are created equal. From the classic notch to the bold peak or the sleek shawl, each lapel style plays its role, and knowing when and how to wear them makes all the difference.

At Sartoro, we treat the lapel like an art form. Because when the fit is precise and the style is intentional, even the smallest detail can speak volumes. So, whether you’re building a suit for everyday confidence or a special event, here’s how to choose the lapel that does the talking for you.

Understanding Suit Lapels: More Than Just A Fold

A lapel is the folded fabric flap on the front of a jacket or coat, forming a distinct part of a suit’s identity. But it’s not just decoration, it shapes the entire tone of your look. Whether you’re going for sharp and defined or relaxed and understated, the lapel is where it all begins.

Below, we break down the core lapel types and how each serves a different purpose, fit, and feel.

Notch Lapel: The Everyday Essential

The most versatile of the lapel family. A small notch where the lapel meets the collar defines this cut. It’s clean, easy to wear, and ideal for business, casual events, and everything in between. Sartoro’s modern notch lapels are tailored with precision to look polished without ever trying too hard. They’re especially popular in suits for men seeking an everyday blend of style and professionalism.

Peak Lapel: Built For Bold Statements

Sharp, upward-pointing lapels that demand attention. Peak lapels bring structure and strength to a suit, perfect for weddings, formal events, or whenever you want to stand out. Pair with wide shoulders or double-breasted jackets to emphasize confidence. They’re a staple for anyone considering a wedding suit for men that commands presence while staying timeless, including a groomsmen suit.

Shawl Lapel: Sleek And Minimal

This rounded, seamless lapel is usually reserved for tuxedos and eveningwear. Its smooth silhouette offers a clean finish, making it ideal for black-tie events or elevated nights out. At Sartoro, we keep it cool and refined, never flashy. It’s also a great match for a tailored navy blue suit, blending sophistication with a modern twist.

What Is A Notch Lapel And When Should You Wear It?

Among the various lapel types, the notch lapel is the most iconic and versatile choice in contemporary tailoring. Recognizable by the small, triangular cut where the collar meets the lapel, this style is a staple in modern suiting, seamlessly bridging tradition and innovation.

Definition And Characteristics

The notch lapel features a visible 'notch' or indentation, creating a subtle visual break at the join of the collar and lapel. Generally found on single-breasted suits and blazers, it offers a clean and balanced look. Its crisp lines help frame the wearer’s face and complement a variety of jacket fits, from classic to slim.

Best Occasions To Wear A Notch Lapel

The true strength of the notch lapel lies in its adaptability. It suits almost every environment—professional offices, business meetings, interviews, and even semi-formal social gatherings. Whether you’re dressing for a day at work, a dinner engagement, or a contemporary wedding, the notch lapel delivers understated elegance. It’s the default choice for those building a versatile, modern wardrobe.

Peak Lapels: Sharp, Bold, And Made For Impact

Few style statements resonate quite like the peak lapel. Famed for its sharp, upward-pointing edges, the peak lapel is a classic detail with a distinctly modern energy, a choice that projects confidence in boardrooms, black-tie events, and beyond.

The Anatomy Of The Peak Lapel

A peak lapel is instantly recognizable by its edges, which point upward toward the shoulders, creating a strong, broad-shouldered silhouette. This angular cut elongates the body and conveys a sense of authority and determination.

Where And When To Wear Peak Lapels

Peak lapels remain the gold standard for formal occasions: think power suits, tuxedos, and double-breasted jackets. However, their assertiveness also translates surprisingly well to modern single-breasted suits, making them a go-to for those who like their tailoring to stand out regardless of dress code.

Who Should Consider Peak Lapels?

Peak lapels benefit anyone seeking a sophisticated, impactful look. They’re especially flattering for men seeking to accentuate their shoulders or create a more athletic profile. Best of all, this lapel type is inclusive—whether tall, broad, streamlined, or somewhere in between, the peak lapel adapts, offering sartorial confidence.

Shawl Lapels: Sleek, Minimal, And Evening-Ready

The shawl lapel stands apart for its smooth curves and understated sophistication. An eveningwear staple, its continuous, rounded edge traces the neckline without interrupting notches or peaks, evoking a clean and fluid silhouette. This is the lapel of choice for those who appreciate subtlety with an edge of old-world glamour reimagined for today’s refined wardrobes.

Characteristics Of Shawl Lapels

• Shape and Structure: Defined by a single, sweeping curve, the shawl lapel dispenses with angles in favor of an elegant, uninterrupted line.
• Width Variations: While typically seen in medium to wide proportions, thinner adaptations exist for a modern twist on the classic tuxedo style.
• Exclusivity: Most commonly reserved for formal jackets—think dinner scene or black-tie event—the shawl lapel delivers a formal, polished statement without overpowering the suit.

Best Occasions And Pairing Tips

• Evening Events: Black tie affairs, galas, and weddings are natural habitats for the shawl lapel, signaling occasion and taste.
• Fabric Choices: Luxurious materials like velvet, satin, or high-end wool amplify the minimalist effect, letting the cut and curve speak for themselves.
• Personal Style Considerations: This lapel suits those who prefer a softer shoulder and want to exude relaxed confidence rather than commanding attention with sharp lines. For beach or outdoor ceremonies, a men's linen suit for weddings with a shawl lapel brings refined comfort to warmer settings.

Best Lapel Types For Different Body Shapes

The perfect lapel is more than a detail; it's a powerful tool for enhancing your silhouette and expressing individual style. Understanding which lapel types harmonize best with different body shapes empowers you to create custom suiting that feels as good as it looks. Here’s an insider’s guide to matching lapels to your body type.

Broad Shoulders Or Athletic Build

Opt for notch lapels in a standard or slightly wider width. This creates a balanced, refined profile without adding unnecessary bulk. A soft peak lapel can also work, lending a subtle sense of dynamism without overwhelming your frame.

Slim Or Tall Frame

Peak lapels make a bold statement and add visual width, which flatters longer or leaner builds. A wider notch lapel also draws the eye horizontally, creating a strong, structured look.

Fuller Figures

Choose notch or shawl lapels in a moderate width—too narrow or too wide can exaggerate proportions. Darker suit fabrics with classic lapels elongate the torso and provide a sleek, polished appearance.

Shorter Stature

Narrow notch lapels or slim peak lapels create vertical lines that visually lengthen the body. Avoid overly wide lapels, which can cause the torso to appear more compact.

Formal vs. Casual: Matching Lapel Styles To The Event

The nuances of lapel style can elevate your ensemble, signaling a deep understanding of tradition and contemporary fashion. Here’s how to distinguish when to choose each lapel for optimal effect.

Peak Lapels: The Pinnacle Of Formality

Peak lapels are synonymous with formal occasions. Characterized by their upward-slanting edges, they impart a sharp, commanding presence that’s tailor-made for black-tie events, galas, and weddings. Their architectural lines naturally broaden the shoulders, making this style an inspired choice for those seeking a more assertive silhouette.

Notch Lapels: The Versatile Standard

Notch lapels, with their clean, angular cut where the lapel meets the collar, strike a harmonious balance between sophistication and approachability. This lapel type is ideal for office environments, business meetings, and smart-casual affairs—consider it your day-to-night staple. Its universal appeal ensures it pairs effortlessly with most suit configurations.

Shawl Lapels: Effortless Elegance

Defined by their smooth, rounded edges, shawl lapels evoke a sense of old-school refinement, perfect for tuxedos, dinner jackets, or any setting that calls for an extra dose of elegance. While traditionally reserved for evening wear, contemporary styling has seen shawl lapels incorporated into modern, creative event attire for those unafraid to stand out.

Slim And Wide Lapels: Personality Meets Occasion

The width of your lapel subtly telegraphs your style. Slim lapels, often chosen for casual or fashion-forward settings, convey modernity and a streamlined look, while wider lapels are bold, retro-tinged, and inherently dressier—a nod to classic tailoring that never feels out of place in formal moments.

Selecting The Ideal Lapel For Your Next Suit Purchase

Finding the right lapel is more than a matter of taste; it's about harmonizing personality, physique, and the occasion. With many lapel types and variations, your choice can define your suit's overall look and feel. Here’s how to navigate the essential considerations:

Consider The Occasion And Suit Model

Those seeking formality and tradition often gravitate toward peak lapels or shawl collars, signatures of tuxedos and business attire. For everyday versatility, notch lapels remain a timeless, universally appropriate choice. Consider the context where your suit will shine, and let the lapel reflect the intended mood.

Factor In Your Body Type

Lapel width plays a crucial role in proportion. Broader lapels add presence to slender frames, while slimmer designs can elongate broader builds. Consider your shoulder width and chest; the lapel should echo your physique, neither overwhelming nor underplaying your natural shape.

Expressing Personal Style

Whether you’re drawn to sharp, architectural peaks or the understated curve of a notch, your choice of lapel can amplify your individuality. Pay attention to details like edge stitching, gorge height, and the lapel’s roll—they serve as subtle but impactful design cues.

Embracing Modernity And Innovation

Today’s tailoring landscape offers nearly limitless customization. From imaginative contrasts to bolder silhouettes, modern lapel types encourage you to step outside convention while staying true to sophisticated style. Engage with new trends mindfully—your suit should remain relevant yet unmistakably your own.

Final Thoughts

Your lapel choice says more than you might think when suiting up with intention. Whether it’s the everyday elegance of a notch, the bold authority of a peak, or the refined curve of a shawl, each lapel offers a different way to express your style, frame your physique, and signal your presence. At Sartoro, tailoring should reflect tradition and individuality, right down to the lapel. By understanding the nuances of each style, you’re not just wearing a suit, you’re wearing your story, with every detail tailored to tell it just right.

Read also:

• What Makes A Suit? A Guide To Every Key Piece
• Types Of Suits: A Guide To Styles, Cuts, And Occasions
• How Should A Suit Fit? Key Points To Achieve A Tailored Look

Frequently Asked Questions About The Art Of The Perfect Lapel: Types, Styles, And How To Choose

What is a lapel?

A lapel is the folded flap of fabric on a suit jacket or blazer that runs along the chest, framing the collar and neckline. It’s a key design element that influences your suit's appearance and personality. 

How many types of lapels are there?

There are three primary lapel types: notch, peak, and shawl. Each carries its own style signature. Notch lapels are the classic choice, peak lapels exude a bold, sophisticated energy, and shawl lapels present a smooth, rounded elegance, each fit for different occasions and sensibilities.

Which type of lapel is most formal?

The peak lapel is traditionally the most formal among the standard lapel types. Its angular, upward-pointing finish makes it a favorite for formal business suits and tuxedos. The shawl lapel, while also highly formal, is most commonly reserved for black-tie events and dinner jackets.

What is the most versatile lapel style?

The notch lapel is considered the most versatile lapel style. Its clean lines and understated shape transition seamlessly from business to social settings, making it a favorite for modern urban professionals and those building a foundational wardrobe.

How does lapel width affect suit style?

Lapel width can powerfully shape the mood of your suit. Slim lapels lean modern and youthful, while wider lapels evoke classic elegance and vintage inspiration. Sartoro allows you to customize lapel width, ensuring your suit harmonizes with your proportions and personal aesthetic, empowering every man to define his style standards.

What is the significance of lapel buttonholes?

Lapel buttonholes, often found on the left lapel, are a nod to classic tailoring. Historically practical, they now mostly serve as a stylish accent—an ideal spot for a boutonnière or lapel pin, especially for special occasions or moments of celebration.