If you make an effort to dress up, you want to look your best, and whilst it may sound silly, the way you button your garment can make or break your look. There are some generally accepted rules to follow and although it’s ultimately your choice how you wear your clothing, these tips can considerably up your style game.
 

“Sometimes, Always, Never”

The basic rule of buttoning your single-breasted suit jacket up is “sometimes, always, never” – if you have a three-buttoned jacket it applies in this order. Sometimes button the top one, always button the middle one, never button the bottom one. If you have a two-buttoned jacket, you should always button the top button, never the second. 

This means regardless of the type of jacket you’re wearing, never button up the bottom button! Tailored suits are made with the assumption the bottom button will never be fastened. This is a traditional rule that has many stories of how it came to be, but ultimately it creates a more flattering silhouette. For waistcoats the same rule is applied, never leave the bottom button open. We guaranteed you’ll be thankful for this after that big formal dinner!

If it’s a double-breasted jacket or waistcoat, the rules are simple. In British and American culture, we simply choose to have the buttons all done up. Some Italians select to have the bottom button undone for a more casual look. When it comes to the overcoat, the buttoning is also simple. Naturally, you have all the buttons buttoned up because it’s supposed to keep you warm. However, when it’s a little warmer and you’d like for a little more functionality, you may also opt to have the bottom button undone for this garment too.

Finally, with the majority of off-the-peg jackets, you’ll find they have non-functioning cuffs. Show off the fact yours is tailored by leaving the last button of your cuff unfastened. Many gentlemen like to highlight this by having the bottom buttonhole of their cuff made in a contrasting coloured thread.