How to Wear a Lapel on a Suit for Every Event?

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Three men at different events, each with a distinct suit lapel. First, a man with a notch lapel on a business suit, wearing it in a corporate office. Second, a man with a peak lapel, sharp and pointed, dressed in a black tuxedo for a wedding with a lapel pin on the left side. Third, a man in a shawl lapel, smooth and rounded, in a white tuxedo at an elegant formal dinner party. The settings should reflect the formality of each lapel style, with each man looking confident and stylish for their specific event.

Want to look sharp at your next event? The lapel on your suit can change how you look and feel. The right lapel helps you stand out and shows you put thought into your outfit.


There are different types of lapels on suits. The notch lapel is simple and works for many events. The peak lapel is bold and great for fancy occasions. The shawl lapel is smooth and perfect for tuxedos. You can also add a lapel pin to make your look even better.


Picture yourself at a wedding, business meeting, or party, looking great with the right lapel on your suit. When you know where to put a lapel pin and which lapel to pick, you’ll feel confident and ready for anything.


Ready to pick the best lapel for your next event? Keep reading to find out what lapel works for each occasion and how to wear a lapel pin. We’ll make it easy for you.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

  • Different kinds of suit lapels: Learn about the three main lapels—Notch, Peak, and Shawl—and which ones are best for different events.
  • How to choose the right lapel for the occasion: Find out which lapel works for formal events, business meetings, and casual gatherings.
  • Where to put a lapel pin on a suit: Get simple tips on how to wear a lapel pin, including where to place it and how to match it with your suit.
  • How to pick a lapel pin for your suit: Discover how to choose the perfect men’s lapel pin to complete your look for different events, especially for a men’s lapel pin for wedding.

What is a Lapel Pin?

A lapel pin is a small accessory worn on the left side of your suit jacket’s lapel. Though it’s tiny, it can make a big difference in your overall look. Lapel pins are a simple way to add some personality to your outfit, whether you want something classic, fun, or a little bit quirky.

Lapel pins were once used for practical reasons, like showing support for a cause or belonging to a group. Nowadays, they’re a stylish addition to any suit, helping to make your outfit stand out.

What is a Lapel on a Suit?

The lapel on a suit is the folded edge of fabric that runs from the collar to the chest of a suit jacket. It defines the suit’s style and determines its formality. Different types of lapels on suits are suited for various occasions, ranging from casual gatherings to black-tie events.

Different Types of Suit Lapels

Notch Lapel

Man in a business suit with a notch lapel, which has a small cut where the lapel meets the collar. He is attending a formal business meeting, standing confidently. The suit is classic, in a neutral color like grey or navy, with the man looking professional. The setting is a modern office, with clean lines and a polished, straightforward vibe. The lapel should be clearly visible and show its simple, clean design, symbolizing versatility and sophistication.

The notch lapel features a small cut or “notch” where the lapel meets the collar. This design is simple and classic, offering a versatile look that works well for both formal and casual occasions. It’s the most common lapel style, often found on business suits and jackets for events like weddings and everyday wear.

Peak Lapel

Man in a tuxedo with a peak lapel, which features sharp, pointed edges angling upward toward the shoulders. The lapel design is bold and sophisticated, reflecting confidence and elegance. The setting is a glamorous, high-profile event such as a wedding or gala. The man stands tall, exuding a sharp, refined look. The tuxedo is sleek, in a classic black or dark shade, highlighting the pointed peak lapel's design. The background is sophisticated, with soft lighting and elegant decor to match the formal atmosphere.

The peak lapel has sharp, pointed edges that angle upward toward the shoulders. This bold design makes a statement, exuding confidence and sophistication. It’s typically seen in formal suits and tuxedos, ideal for high-profile events, weddings, and galas, where you want to stand out with a sharp and elegant look.

Shawl Lapel

Man in a tuxedo featuring a shawl lapel, smooth and rounded with no cuts or angles, creating a sleek and elegant appearance. The lapel is soft and refined, perfect for black-tie events like a formal dinner or gala. The tuxedo is classic, with a timeless, sophisticated look, typically in black or deep navy. The man stands confidently in a well-lit, luxurious setting, capturing the essence of a sophisticated, classic style. The background includes elegant decorations suitable for high-class, formal occasions.

The shawl lapel is smooth and rounded, with no cuts or angles, giving it a sleek, soft, and elegant appearance. This lapel style is most commonly found on tuxedos and formal dinner jackets. Its timeless, refined look makes it perfect for black-tie events and occasions where a sophisticated, classic style is required.

Choosing the Right Lapel for the Occasion

Formal Events

A neatly folded formal tuxedo in rich black with a peak lapel, accented by a white floral lapel pin, displayed against a neutral, elegant background. The fabric gleams with fine detailing, showcasing its premium texture and tailored craftsmanship. The scene is set to highlight sophistication, perfect for formal events and weddings.

Recommended Lapels: Peak or Shawl.

Why: These lapels elevate your look and pair perfectly with tuxedos.

Pro Tip: Pair your tuxedo or suit with a classic lapel pin for wedding occasions. White or floral lapel pins look great.

Business Meetings

A tailored business suit in a sleek charcoal gray with a classic notch lapel, accented by a subtle metallic lapel pin. The fabric displays a refined texture, perfectly pressed for a polished and professional appearance. The backdrop features a minimalist office setting with soft lighting, emphasizing the suit's versatility and understated elegance for business meetings.

Recommended Lapel: Notch.

Why: It’s professional and understated, making it ideal for the workplace.

Pro Tip: Use subtle suit lapel pins for men to add personality without being over the top.

Casual Gatherings

A relaxed-fit suit in a light beige or pastel green shade with a wide notch lapel, perfect for casual gatherings. The lapel features a playful and artistic lapel pin, such as a minimal floral or abstract design, adding a touch of personality. The suit fabric has a breathable, textured finish, complemented by a casually unbuttoned shirt beneath. The background is a cozy outdoor garden party with warm lighting, emphasizing a relaxed yet polished vibe.

Recommended Lapel: Wide Notch.

Why: It creates a relaxed yet refined appearance.

Pro Tip: A cool lapel pin for suit lets you express creativity and style while maintaining a relaxed yet polished look.

How to Wear a Lapel Pin on a Suit

An image of a man wearing a suit with a lapel pin placed on the left side of the jacket. The suit features a classic design with a noticeable buttonhole, where the lapel pin is attached securely. The lapel pin should be elegant but subtle, with a simple and clean appearance. Show a close-up of the suit lapel, highlighting the proper placement of the pin and its attachment to the fabric. The setting should be neutral and elegant, suitable for a business or formal event.

What Side Does a Lapel Pin Go On a Suit?

If you’re wondering “where to put a lapel pin on a suit?”, the answer is simple: a lapel pin should always be placed on the left side of the suit jacket. This is the traditional position and standard for men’s suits.

How to Attach It: 

Use the buttonhole, if available, or pin it securely to the fabric.

Lapel Pin Color Matching Guide: Perfect Pins for Every Suit Color

Enhance your style with the perfect lapel pin placement on suit and color combinations:

Lapel Pin on Grey Suit: 

A grey suit with a simple and elegant lapel pin in soft colors like white, silver, or light blue. The lapel pin should be understated yet refined, adding a touch of sophistication without being too bold. The focus is on a clean, classy look with the pin complementing the grey suit.

Try soft colors like white, silver, or light blue.

Lapel Pin on Black Suit: 

A sharp black suit with a bold red, gold, or deep blue lapel pin placed on the left side. The lapel pin should be vibrant and eye-catching, contrasting beautifully with the black suit. The overall look should be striking, with a focus on the bold pin's vibrant colors against the dark suit.

Bold shades like red, gold, or deep blue stand out beautifully.

Lapel Pin on Navy Suit: 

Show a well-dressed man in a navy suit, wearing a lapel pin with a color that complements the navy tone. The pin can be in a rich, elegant hue like dark red or green, sitting neatly on the left lapel. The overall look should be polished and professional.

Burgundy, emerald green, or navy pins blend well.

Lapel Pin on Brown Suit: 

Show a stylish man wearing a brown suit with a lapel pin in earthy tones like beige, tan, or light brown. The pin should blend smoothly with the brown suit, enhancing the overall sophisticated and refined appearance.

Earthy tones like beige, tan, or light brown match beautifully.

Lapel Pin on White Suit: 

Show a stylish man wearing a white suit with a lapel pin in pastel shades like pink, lavender, or mint green. The pin should add a subtle yet vibrant touch to the white suit, enhancing its fresh and elegant look.

Pastel shades like pink, lavender, or mint green add subtle vibrancy.

Final Thoughts: Why Lapel Choice Matters

The lapel on a suit jacket does more than add style; it reflects your personality and suits the occasion. A shawi lapel suit is perfect for black-tie events, while a peak lapel suit makes an impression at weddings or high-profile meetings. For everyday versatility, the notch lapel remains unmatched.

Pairing the right types of lapels used in suits transforms your look. Whether it’s a wide lapel for a relaxed event or a peak lapel for a formal one, your choice shows attention to detail.

FAQs

What are the different kinds of suit lapels?

The most common different kinds of suit lapels include the notch lapel, peak lapel, and shawl lapel. Each type offers a unique look and is suited for different occasions, from casual gatherings to formal black-tie events.

When should I wear a shawl lapel?

A shawl lapel is perfect for formal events, such as black-tie occasions. Its rounded edges lend a refined and elegant look, typically found on tuxedos and dinner jackets.

What is the difference between a notch lapel and a peak lapel?

A notch lapel has a small cut or “notch” at the collar’s edge, providing a classic, timeless look. A peak lapel, on the other hand, has pointed edges that angle upward, offering a bolder and more formal appearance, making it perfect for weddings, galas, or high-profile business events.

Are lapel pins necessary, or can I skip them?

While lapel pins are not strictly necessary, they can enhance your look and make your outfit stand out. A well-chosen lapel pin can add a touch of sophistication and style, especially when paired with the different kinds of suit lapels.

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