When you meet someone, your first glance naturally falls on their face, and then your eyes move downward from top to bottom. Below the face is the neck, and the only feature around the neck is the lapel. The suit lapel is like your second face — it easily draws people’s attention.

Therefore, the choice of suit lapel directly affects the overall look of the whole suit. How can you pick a lapel style that better matches your body type and temperament? Let’s find out!

1. Notch lapel

The notch lapel is a classic, standard formal lapel style. There is an angle between the lower and upper sections of the lapel, typically ranging from 75° to 90°. It works with all suit styles.

Notch lapels are commonly seen on single-breasted suits. They pair well with all kinds of fabrics. For those who have trouble making decisions, a suit with notch lapels is the safest and most reliable option. Because it suits all body types and occasions. It works for business, weddings or casual events. It pairs easily with any dress shirt or Tshirt and won’t look out of place in any setting.

For formal business occasions, you may opt for dark-colored suits with notch lapels. For daily life or casual events, you can pick notch lapel suits in vibrant colors. You can choose purely based on personal preference, with few restrictions.

2. Peak lapel

Peak lapel is a more fashionable lapel style. It combines the steadiness and classic look of the notch lapel while boasting its own elegant and refined temperament. Its prominent upward-pointing peak accentuates the sharp, firm vibe of the suit. Meanwhile, it draws the eye upward, creating a taller and slimmer visual effect.

Peak lapels are a perfect match for double-breasted suits, though they also work well on single-breasted ones. Worn for daily commutes or gatherings with friends, they showcase your fashion sense and great taste. Compared with notch lapels, peak lapels carry stronger authority and formality, making them ideal for meetings, banquets and weddings. Besides, for gentlemen who are shorter or have a stocky build, peak lapels can help soften some imperfections.

3. Shawl lapel

The shawl lapel, also known as the blade lapel, is a type of formal evening lapel commonly used on tuxedos. It is a variation of the notched lapel. Its lapel panel is shaped like an olive. A shawl lapel has no lapel notch; it curves down like a semicircle or scarf all the way to the buttons. Therefore, suits with shawl lapels are ideal for dinners, weddings, grand ceremonies and other formal events.

For gentlemen with round faces or fuller cheeks, slim elongated suit lapels create a lengthening visual effect and flatter your facial shape well. Slender men can also choose this lapel style. Its sharp lines and tailoring will balance soft features and bring out a strong masculine vibe.

The notch lapel is versatile and foolproof, suitable for most occasions and body types. The peak lapel is more stylish and commanding, best paired with double-breasted suits and ideal for gentlemen who want to show refined charm. The shawl lapel is reserved for formal evening wear, the top pick for banquets, weddings and grand events. When choosing your suit lapel, consider not only your personal preference but also your body type and the event.