Lapels and their variations are most commonly referenced when talking about Suit Jackets or Blazers, and can also help to differentiate between colder weather Coat options .
Whether you know what a lapel is, but that’s as far as it goes, OR you have no idea what I’m talking about…here’s a crash course on lapels so you can be more deliberate when shopping for your next Suit, Winter Coat, Blazer, or Sport Jacket.
La-pel: Pronounced “luh-pel”
The lapel refers to the two folded flaps that extend from the collar on either side of a Suit Jacket, Blazer, Coat, Sport Jacket, and other more formal clothing options.
The Notched Lapel
A “notched” lapel is…notched. There is a sideways “V” shaped indentation on either side where the lapel meets the collar.
The notched lapel is considered standard, and the most commonly found lapel across the board. Easy to dress up, or wear in more casual settings, you can’t go wrong with a notched lapel on a coat, blazer, or suit jacket.
Pro-tip: A notched lapel looks best on a single breasted option. If your Coat, Blazer, or Suit Jacket are double breasted, then a peak lapel is going to be a more flattering choice .
The Peak Lapel
The peaked lapel is often seen on a more formal Coat or Jacket option, and comes to a “peak”, and points upwards where it meets the collar.
This option looks great on both single and double breasted options, and will always elevate your outfit.
Pro-tip: Because of its angle, a peak lapel has a will add length to your upper torso. It also creates a diagonal line spanning from your shoulders to your waist, which slims the waist, and adds balance to the body.
The Shawl Lapel
The shawl lapel or collar is rounded, has no notch or peak, and is often seen on Tuxedo’s, Cardigans, and Coat options.
Apart from a Tuxedo Jacket, a shawl collar or lapel option is easy to throw on top of a dressier shirt option or a casual t-shirt and jeans to elevate your look.
Devina Bhaga is a Personal Stylist with over 10 years of experience in empowering men and women to confidently express their inner BADASS.
For immediate help to upgrade your wardrobe virtually or in-person, contact Devina here
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Devina Bhaga is a Personal Stylist and Image Consultant with over 10 years of experience in empowering men and women to powerfully step into, and own their authentic personal style.
Devina has worked with The Wendy Williams Show, Good Morning America, and styled for various film and television productions. She now works with men and women who are READY to take their lives to the next level.
For immediate help upgrading your wardrobe virtually or in-person, contact Devina here