Double or Nothing

When you’re looking to add an instant shot of swank and swagger to your outfit, throwing on a blazer is one of the easiest ways to accomplish this. But if you want to take it to the next level, opt for a double-breasted jacket. These are jackets that instantly convey you know what you're doing and that you take your personal style seriously. Because these are jackets that go the extra mile—a blazer with cajones, if you will.

It's an old-school style, of course. When it comes to men's jackets, the double-breasted option has been in and out of fashion a lot. It first emerged in Victorian times, originating from sailing apparel (think of the classic pea coat), the jackets were originally considered a more casual alternative to the single-breasted style. But as time went on, and fabric got pricier, the style became more refined. Once the favorite of '80s Wall Street bankers, the six-button jacket took a backseat to narrow, single-breasted styles for a while but has since been picked up by creative types and A-listers with enviable style—dudes like Ryan Gosling, Austin Butler, Lewis Hamilton and Paul Mescal. This makes sense because there's something about a double-breasted jacket that says “I'm living large but also chill”.

And as tailoring trends lean into a looser silhouette, with more space to relax into, the time is right to pull on a double-breasted jacket. It could be worn by itself—over a proper shirt, of course, but also with a simple tee or knit polo—with jeans or some nice trousers. Or you could opt for a matching jacket and pants combo and make it a suit, ready for nights out on the town or all those summer weddings you're currently RSVPing to. That's the real beauty of the double-breasted style. It can be all things for any occasion. If you want it to be dressed up, just fasten the button and straighten your tie. If you want a more louche vibe, then let it waft open and have a good time. Despite its formal heritage, these modern interpretations of the double-breasted suit can hit these different frequencies. You might even say it's twice as fun as a regular jacket.