Due to their association with morning coats and tailcoats, the peak lapel is by nature a more formal style and will instantly take any outfit up a notch. They also make an unapologetic statement and are guaranteed to have you standing out from the notch-lapelled crowd, so they need to be worn with confidence. Just how ‘peaky’ your peaks should be depends on your own physical dimensions. If you’re slim and narrow shouldered then you should opt for small peaks, and vice versa. Furthermore, it’s important to consider where in the lapel the peak is positioned. Hardy Amies’ SS15 showcase, for example, featured gorgeous double-breasted jackets with peaks that finished on the collar bone, giving the appearance of height – perfect for shorter gents or those carrying a few extra pounds who desire a lengthening effect. Pick a dark coloured suit and this illusion is amplified further. Canali was another brand that had some fantastic examples of classic peak blazers in their latest collection, while Brioni revealed a peaked tuxedo jacket to die for, proving that Italians are always right on the money when it comes to the double-breasted cut:

Modern Lookbook Inspiration

Key Styles

• Topman Blue Skinny Fit Tuxedo Lapel Blazer
• Topman Navy Jacquard Contrast Peak Skinny Suit Jacket
• Topman Light Grey Suit Jacket
• River Island Light Blue Double Breasted Blazer
• He By Mango Double-breasted Unstructured Blazer
• He By Mango Double-breasted Jersey Blazer
• Ovadia & Sons Slim-fit Woven-wool Double-breasted Blazer
• Reiss Heart Shawl Collar Tuxedo Jacket Midnight
• Topman Grey Jacquard Skinny Suit Jacket
• River Island Navy Leather-look Shawl Collar Blazer
• Etro Slim-fit Faux Suede-collar Cotton Blazer
• Mcq Alexander Mcqueen Black Slim-fit Twill Tuxedo Jacket
• Austin Reed Nick Hart Blue Mohair Jacket

Final Word

The three lapels showcased above are firmly engrained in the very fabric of menswear, with each bringing its own unique characteristics and personality to any modern gent’s tailoring collection. But it’s important to remember that excluding true formal occasions, there are no right or wrong answers when it comes to picking a lapel style – experiment and find what works best for your wardrobe and body type. Make sure you let us know what type of lapel you prefer and for what occasions, in the comments section below…