If you have been invited to a formal event, but are unsure whether you should wear a dinner jacket or a suit jacket, then look no further as we explain what the key differences are and when it is most appropriate to wear each respective jacket.
What are the key features of both jackets?
The most notable difference at first glance between the dinner jacket and the suit jacket is the satin, or lack thereof.
A dinner jacket features satin lapels, whereas a suit jacket does not. The satin theme found on a dinner jacket will extend to the buttons and sometimes the pockets.
In essence, a dinner jacket is more refined, supremely elegant and a luxury item of clothing to be worn on occasion.
A suit jacket may be worn to a formal event or for everyday business and is made using a harder-wearing fabric. Listed below are some other differences between the two jacket styles:
- A dinner jacket features one button fastening unless double breasted vs a suit jacket which will feature 2 or 3 buttons (and is also available as double-breasted). The general rule is, the fewer the buttons, the more formal the event.
- A dinner jacket will often be black with black satin lapels, and a sheen to the rest of the jacket material, oozing charm and sophistication vs a suit jacket which has lapels made from the same fabric as the rest of the suit and is available in many colours and patterns.
- The lines blur a little when it comes to the style of lapel, as the peak and notch lapels feature on both jackets. However, a stark contrast would be that of a dinner jacket worn with shawl lapels. These are designed as one piece of material that starts at the collar curving down to the waist for the optimum formal look.
- A dinner jacket is traditionally worn with a bow tie vs a suit jacket which can be worn with a bow tie or a normal tie.
Which jacket should I wear and when?
Both jackets are pretty smart. The most important point is to follow the dress code if there is one!
A dinner jacket is the highest level of smartness and sophistication. If the event you are attending is at the top end of the formal scale, especially if it states ‘black tie’, or if it is a wedding where your role is important / the bridal party requests it, then the dinner jacket is the one for you.
If there is no dress code but smart attire is required, then a regular suit jacket is the most versatile and offers more flexibility for the wearer to explore their own style and preference.
The time of day is another important factor - most often a daytime event will call for a lighter suit jacket, whereas an evening event would justify a dinner jacket.
In Summary
Your personal style and comfort is of the essence.
So unless a dress code is stipulated, you can choose the elegant timeless look of a dinner jacket, or experiment with colours and style with the flexibility of a suit jacket.
At Shepherd & Woodward, we want the modern gentleman to have access to a range of traditional British formalwear.
We believe that history and style combined produces a very favourable outcome!
If you need any further help, please do not hesitate to contact us via email or visit us in-store.