A groom fastening his waistcoat buttons on his wedding suit

Mastering Button Etiquette: A Gentleman’s Guide

While the allure of a well-tailored suit often takes centre stage, the subtle details, such as button etiquette, can significantly elevate your overall appearance.

This guide unravels the intricacies of button etiquette, particularly for wedding attire, empowering you to make informed choices and exude confidence on your special day.

The Evolution of Button Etiquette

Button etiquette has its roots in equestrian fashion, where practical considerations influenced the placement and fastening of buttons. As fashion evolved, these conventions transformed into sartorial guidelines.

However, it’s essential to remember that while etiquette provides a framework, personal style and comfort ultimately dictate your choices.

Jacket Button Etiquette

The traditional rule for jacket buttons is as follows:

Single-breasted jackets: The top button should always be fastened, while the bottom button can remain unbuttoned. This rule stems from equestrian origins, where fastening the bottom button restricted movement when riding.

However, modern fashion has relaxed these rigid guidelines. Some men prefer to fasten all buttons for a more formal look, while others opt for a more relaxed style by leaving all buttons unfastened. Ultimately, the choice is yours.

Waistcoat Button Etiquette

Waistcoat button etiquette is equally important:

Single-breasted waistcoats: The top button should always be fastened, while the bottom button can be left unbuttoned.
Double-breasted waistcoats: All buttons should be fastened.

Interestingly, the tradition of leaving the bottom waistcoat button unfastened is often attributed to King Edward VII. It’s believed that he found it uncomfortable to have a full buttoned waistcoat restricting his movement, leading to this sartorial convention.

The Importance of Button Etiquette for Weddings

While button etiquette may seem like a minor detail, it significantly impacts your overall appearance. Adhering to these guidelines creates a polished and refined look, reflecting your attention to detail. For weddings, where photographs are abundant, proper button etiquette ensures you look your best in every shot.

Breaking the Rules: When and How

While traditional button etiquette provides a solid foundation, there’s room for personal interpretation. Consider these factors when deciding whether to break the rules:

Wedding Theme: A casual or modern wedding might allow for more relaxed buttoning styles.
Personal Comfort: If a particular buttoning style feels uncomfortable or restrictive, feel free to adjust it to your preference.
Body Shape: Experiment with different buttoning styles to find what flatters your body shape best.

Mastering button etiquette is just one aspect of achieving a perfect wedding look. Visit Astares Menswear for expert styling advice and a wide selection of suits to complement your personal style.