Suit Design Options Breakdown – Peak vs Notch Lapel

Choosing between peak lapels or notch lapels might seem like a small design detail, but it plays a big role in defining the overall look of your suit. At BLUGIALLO, we believe that every element of a suit should be intentional—this includes the lapels. As the folded flaps on the front of your jacket, the lapels may not have a functional purpose, but their impact on style and balance is undeniable. The choice between notch, peak, or shawl lapels brings a different level of formality and attitude to your look.

Are you after a sleek suit for work? Planning for your wedding or attending a formal event? Or maybe you’re searching for a more casual jacket to combine with various pieces in your wardrobe? Whatever the occasion, choosing the right lapel is essential. This guide will walk you through the options and help you make a confident decision for your custom or made-to-order suit.

Peak & Notch Lapel Options

At BLUGIALLO, we offer four key lapel options and two different widths, ensuring that we cater to a wide range of personal tastes and styles. Each type of lapel brings its own flair to your suit, and the width is crucial in achieving balanced proportions that suit your frame. Here’s a breakdown of each design:

2-Button Notch Lapel
The 2-button notch lapel is perhaps the most classic, versatile option. It’s simple, timeless, and perfect for both formal and casual settings. A jacket with notch lapels works effortlessly in any wardrobe and is an excellent first choice for anyone starting their tailoring journey.

2-Button Peak Lapel
While similar to the 2-button notch, the peak lapel extends a bit further across the chest and shoulders, adding more structure and formality. Peak lapels tend to bring a bit more attitude and are often seen on double-breasted jackets but work equally well on a single-breasted suit when you want to elevate your look.

2.5 Button Notch Lapel
A BLUGIALLO signature and a favorite among our clients, the 2.5-button notch lapel brings subtle novelty to a classic design. With three buttons, the top button is rolled under the lapel, giving it a soft, relaxed drape that perfectly aligns with our Soft Tailoring approach. The added “roll” creates a more casual, yet still tailored, aesthetic that embodies modern luxury.

6-Button Double Breasted
For those wanting a statement piece, the double-breasted jacket is a go-to. With peak lapels and a wrap-around design, the double-breasted option offers boldness and sophistication in equal measure. The 6-button closure gives this jacket a distinctly structured and polished appearance.

The width of the lapels

When selecting lapel width, proportions are key. At BLUGIALLO, we offer two widths—standard and wide—to ensure your jacket feels perfectly balanced with your body and style preferences.

Notch Lapels
Our standard notch lapel measures 9.5 cm, while the wide option is 11 cm. For those with narrower shoulders, the standard option keeps things proportional. If you have broader shoulders, we suggest the wide lapel to maintain the right balance.

Peak Lapels
The peak lapel, with its more dramatic extension, naturally comes in a slightly wider form. Our standard peak lapel measures 9.2 cm, while the wide version measures 11.5 cm. These lapels add definition to your suit, giving it a sharper and more striking look, especially for formal occasions.

Wide notch lapel

When to Wear Peak Lapel vs. Notch Lapel

Choosing between peak and notch lapels largely depends on the formality of the occasion and the fabric you select for your suit. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

Formal Occasions
For weddings, formal events, or if you’re the groom, the peak lapel is the way to go. It brings a heightened sense of style and sophistication to a suit or tuxedo. Peak lapels work exceptionally well with midnight blue suits or tuxedos and are a must for more formal fabrics like wool or velvet.

Semi-Formal Attire
In a business setting or slightly more relaxed environment, the notch lapel is your best friend. Whether you’re opting for a navy, grey, or brown suit, the notch lapel strikes the right balance between professional and versatile. For a contemporary twist, we love the 2.5 button notch for its relaxed, yet polished look.

Casual Jackets
If you’re looking for a jacket to wear with casual tailoring or even with denim and knitwear, a notch lapel or even a double-breasted jacket with peak lapels can bring that extra touch of refined nonchalance. For casual fabrics like flannel, linen, or cotton, these lapels bring structure without being too formal. The result? A jacket that’s as elegant as it is laid-back.

Peak & Notch Lapel: Design Options Summary

Lapels may seem like a small detail, but they’re a critical part of your suit’s overall design. From formal to casual, the lapel choice helps set the tone for the entire outfit. At BLUGIALLO, we work with you to design custom-made suits and jackets that fit your style, occasion, and lifestyle perfectly, ensuring that every detail—from the lapel to the fit—is just right.

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