There are three suit lapels: the notch (the everyday default), the peak (more formal and assertive), and the shawl (rounded, reserved for tuxedos and black-tie). For a first or business suit, choose a notch lapel; save peak for double-breasted or dressier suits, and shawl for tuxedos. Made-to-measure suits from $299; rated 5.0 from 178 Google reviews.
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The three lapel types
| Lapel | Look | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Notch | A “notch” where collar meets lapel — the standard | Business, everyday, first suit |
| Peak | Upward-pointing tips — sharp, formal, assertive | Double-breasted, weddings, dressier suits |
| Shawl | Smooth rounded edge, no notch or peak | Tuxedos, black-tie, dinner jackets |
Notch lapel — the versatile default
The notch is the most common lapel and the safest choice for almost any single-breasted business or everyday suit. It’s understated and works across dress codes, which is why it’s the right pick for a first suit, the office, and interviews. If you’re unsure, choose notch.
Peak lapel — sharper and more formal
Peak lapels point upward toward the shoulders, creating a bolder, more formal line. They’re standard on double-breasted jackets and a strong choice for weddings or a dressier single-breasted suit when you want presence. A peak lapel elevates a navy or charcoal suit for a groom or a formal event.
Shawl lapel — black-tie only
The shawl is a smooth, continuous rounded lapel with no notch or peak. It belongs to tuxedos and dinner jackets — it’s a black-tie detail, not for business suits. If you’re having a tuxedo made (from $599), a satin-faced shawl (or peak) lapel is the classic choice.
Lapel width and your build
Width matters as much as style. A medium lapel that roughly reaches the midpoint between collar and shoulder seam suits most people and dates the least. Very skinny or very wide lapels are trend-driven and limit how long the suit stays current. With made-to-measure, the lapel width is cut to balance your frame — broader shoulders can carry a slightly wider lapel, slimmer builds a touch narrower.
Which lapel should you choose?
- First / business / everyday suit → notch lapel.
- Double-breasted, or a dressier single-breasted → peak lapel.
- Tuxedo / black-tie → shawl (or peak) with satin facing.
See our single vs double-breasted guide and men’s style guide for the full picture.
Frequently asked questions
What are the three types of suit lapel?
Notch (the everyday standard), peak (more formal, upward-pointing), and shawl (rounded, for tuxedos and black-tie).
Which lapel is best for a business suit?
A notch lapel — it’s the most versatile and understated, ideal for the office, interviews and a first suit.
When should I wear a peak lapel?
On double-breasted jackets and dressier single-breasted suits — for weddings or formal events where you want a sharper, more assertive look.
What is a shawl lapel for?
Tuxedos and dinner jackets (black-tie). It’s not used on business suits.
What lapel width should I choose?
A medium width that reaches about the midpoint between collar and shoulder seam — it flatters most builds and dates the least. Made-to-measure tailors it to your frame.
Does lapel style affect formality?
Yes — notch is the most casual-to-versatile, peak is more formal, and shawl is the most formal (black-tie).
More: tuxedos · single vs double-breasted · bespoke suits · book a fitting
