Find the style to suit you
Louis Copeland and Sons are proud to mark their 90th year in the business this year. While we now offer a diverse selection of casual and smart casual wear, our reputation lies in the realm of men's exquisite suits. Whether you prefer off-the-rack options or custom-made suits, Louis Copeland and Sons cater to the needs of every individual. With three stores in Dublin, along with stores in Cork, Galway, and an online presence, we strive to meet the men's suit requirements of customers far and wide. Furthermore, we provide complimentary lifetime alterations for our suits, ensuring that our valued customers can enjoy the longevity and perfect fit of their garments. This blog explores men's suits, providing valuable insights into different suit types, fabrics, accessories, and more. The goal is to offer readers a thorough understanding and knowledge of the various components that contribute to the world of men's suiting.
Types Of Suits
Two Piece Suit
A two-piece suit for men includes a matching suit jacket and trousers that are intended to be worn together, although there is also the option to mix and match the jacket with different trousers. While a two-piece suit is generally considered more casual compared to other options, it can still be worn formally by pairing it with a crisp Louis Copeland Shirt, dress shoes, a tie, and a pocket square. On the other hand, it can be dressed down for a more relaxed look by wearing a casual item, like a crewneck or jersey shirt, underneath the suit jacket for added comfort. To create a more informal appearance, the suit can be paired with sneakers or loafers.
Three Piece Suit
A three-piece suit is a formal attire comprising three essential components: the suit jacket, waistcoat, and trousers. It is a classic and refined option for suiting, known for its sophisticated and well-structured appearance. This style of suit is particularly popular for significant events like weddings and formal business occasions. Typically, a three-piece suit consists of three matching pieces, ensuring a cohesive and harmonious look. However, there is room for personalization and variation.
Occasionally, individuals may choose to introduce a different-colored waistcoat, adding a touch of contrast or individuality to the ensemble. Another option is to have a matching waistcoat and trousers, while the suit jacket may feature a pattern or design, creating a stylish and distinctive combination. These variations provide opportunities for personal expression while maintaining the overall elegance and formality of the three-piece suit.
Tuxedo
A tuxedo is the epitome of formal men's attire and is reserved for black-tie events. It distinguishes itself from two- or three-piece suits through several notable features. While black is the most popular colour for a tuxedo jacket, there has been a recent trend towards white tuxedo blazers, as well as velvet options in shades of green and blue. The jacket typically boasts silk lapels and can be fastened with one or two buttons.
An essential component of a tuxedo ensemble is a crisp, white dress shirt. This shirt is often adorned with pleats or a bibbed front, exuding elegance. French cuffs are a common feature, requiring the use of cufflinks. While a wingtip collar is the traditional choice, a spread collar is also acceptable with a tuxedo.
Tuxedo trousers are distinct from regular suit trousers due to the satin stripe that matches the satin lapel, running along the outer leg. They are designed without belt loops for a sleek appearance and are commonly worn with suspenders for support. Tuxedos can be worn as either a three-piece ensemble, featuring a matching waistcoat, or as a two-piece suit.
To complete the tuxedo look, a bow tie is the customary accessory of choice. Highly polished black formal shoes are typically worn to complement the ensemble, adding to the overall sophistication.
Suit Jacket Lapels
Lapels are the folded-back flaps on either side of a suit jacket, located just below the collar. They play a significant role in defining the style and formality of a suit. Let's delve into the distinctions among the three main types of lapels:
1.Notch Lapel
The notch lapel, which is the prevailing and adaptable lapel style seen on suits, exhibits a triangular indentation where the lapel meets the collar, resulting in a distinctive "notch" shape. Notch lapels are regarded as traditional and are commonly found on business suits or more informal suit styles. They can be found on both single-breasted and double-breasted jackets. Similar to a solid white shirt, this lapel style is a reliable and timeless choice that doesn't draw excessive attention, offering a balanced and classic aesthetic.
2.Peak Lapel
The peak lapel derives its name from the pointed edges that extend upward and outward towards the shoulder. The lapel "peaks" at the point where it meets the collar, forming an upward-facing shape. Peak lapels are typically associated with formal or semi-formal attire, adding an element of elegance and sophistication to a suit. They are frequently found on double-breasted jackets but can also be seen on certain single-breasted jackets. Choosing a suit with peak lapels imparts a sharp and classy appearance.
3.Shawl Lapel
A shawl lapel is characterized by a smooth, rounded, continuous lapel that does not feature a notch or peak. It maintains a consistent width throughout and curves gracefully from the collar to the button closure. Shawl lapels are most commonly associated with tuxedos, making them a popular choice for black-tie events.
Suit Trousers
Suit trousers are an essential part of a formal suit, paired with the suit jacket to create a polished and sophisticated look. The main styles of suit trousers that people go for are single-pleated, double-pleated, flat-front, slim-fit, and straight-leg.
Single Pleated Trousers: feature a single pleat on each side of the front, which creates a visually appealing division in the fabric across the lap. Moreover, they offer a flattering crease line running from the waistband to the cuff, adding an elegant touch to your trousers appearance.
Double pleated trousers: adds two pleats to each side of the front of the trousers. Double Pleats are a more dramatic way to add extra comfort to your trousers, as they draw more attention to the lap area in addition to adding more room there.
Flat Front trousers: have a smooth front near the zipper, lying flat on the hips, creating a slim and fitted appearance. In contrast, pleated pants have folds of fabric at the waist, usually worn above the hip bone, and offer a more relaxed fit.
Slim fit trousers: are a modern and stylish variation of traditional suit pants. They feature a fitted silhouette with a tapered leg, sitting lower on the waist for a cleaner and neater look. These trousers are ideal for slim builds, providing a tailored and fashionable appearance.
Men's straight leg suit trousers feature a timeless and classic design with a consistent width from thighs to ankles, offering a relaxed and comfortable fit. They sit at the natural waistline and provide a professional appearance suitable for formal and business occasions.
Choosing your suit colour
Black Suits
A black suit is a valuable wardrobe staple for many men due to its versatility and timelessness. It is appropriate for formal occasions, exudes professionalism, and can be dressed up or down. Its classic and slimming effect makes it a reliable choice for various events, providing the option to mix and match with other garments.
Navy Suits
A navy suit radiates professionalism, complements a wide range of skin tones, and is suitable for all seasons. It offers versatility, as you can adapt it to different seasons by pairing it with various colours, such as a pink shirt or a classic crisp white shirt, along with a bright or patterned tie or pocket square to match your style.
Grey Suits
The grey suit is a popular option for business settings due to its professional appearance. It is suitable for various seasons, with lighter shades being well-suited for spring and summer, while darker tones are more appropriate for winter.
Green Suits
Throughout this season, suits in various shades of green have been trending, becoming a popular choice for grooms, groomsmen, and other significant events held year-round. Green, known as a power color, offers a unique appeal with its range of shades from emerald to olive. Moreover, green suits are exceptionally complementary to a diverse array of skin tones.
Suit Fabrics and Patterns
Check Suits
Check patterns in suits come in various styles, including windowpane, glen plaid, and houndstooth, adding individuality to your overall look. These versatile check suits can easily transition from formal business settings to semi-formal or casual events, depending on the pattern's size and color combination. Whether in classic charcoal and navy hues or bold colors like brown, green, or blue, check suits are a stylish way to showcase your personality while maintaining a polished and refined aesthetic.
Pin Stripe Suits
Pinstripe suits are classic and sophisticated attire with timeless appeal, characterized by thin vertical stripes on the fabric. They add refinement and structure, making them popular for formal business occasions and professional settings. Available in various colors, such as navy blue and charcoal gray, pinstripe suits offer versatility and flatter individuals of all body types. They exude confidence and elegance, making them a timeless and impeccable choice for a polished look.
Linen Suits
Linen suits are stylish, lightweight, and breathable outfits perfect for warm weather and tropical climates. They exude relaxed elegance and are ideal for summer events.
Woollen Suits
Woollen suits are classic and versatile wardrobe staples, known for their warmth and comfort. Crafted from natural wool fibers, these suits are ideal for colder weather and formal occasions. They come in various weights, making them suitable for different climates. Woollen suits are breathable, ensuring a polished look throughout the day.
How To Accessorize Your Suit
Here's some ideas on how to accessorize your suit effectively.:
- Use pocket squares that complement but don't exactly match your tie, and experiment with various folds for visual interest.
- Choose ties that match your suit's colour and pattern, with appropriate widths for the suit's lapel.
- Select well-fitted shirts that coordinate with your suit, and consider classic white or light blue options.
- Pair men's dress shoes that match the formality of your suit, and ensure they are well-polished and in good condition.
- Add elegant cufflinks to your dress shirt for a sophisticated touch, opting for classic designs for formal occasions.
- Coordinate the metal colour of your cufflinks with other accessories like your belt buckle or watch.
- Choose a leather belt that matches the colour of your shoes, and opt for a simple design for formal events.
- Aim for a balanced and coordinated look, avoiding over-accessorizing, and experiment to find your personal style and suitable combinations.
