Jacket Buttons - Sometimes, Always, Never

Did you ever wonder why we don't fasten the bottom button on a suit or tuxedo jacket, or when the jacket should be buttoned, and when it shouldn’t? Well, here are a few tips to help you remember!

Many of you have probably heard of the “Sometimes, Always, Never” rule, but have noticed most modern jackets only have up to 2 buttons, making this rule a little confusing. As you probably guessed, this rule is primarily for 3 button jackets. You can start by fastening the top button “Sometimes” as a personal preference when the middle button is also fastened. The second or middle button should “Always” be fastened, and the last or bottom button should always remain open. But why? Well let's jump back in time a bit and head over across the pond.

A little over a hundred years ago, King Edward VII of England liked to eat a lot, and as a result there came a point when he could no longer fasten the bottom button on his waist coat. Out of fear, respect, or just fashion, others soon began imitating Edward and leaving the bottom button open becoming a trend that persists to this day. 

Not long after, suit manufacturers began to change the way they made the jackets so the bottom button looked better open. As a matter of fact, fastening the bottom button nowadays can cause a perfectly fit jacket to seem uncomfortable and restrictive.

As mentioned before, most modern jackets are produced with only 1 or 2 buttons. The same principal stands. Fasten the top button but if there is a second button, leave the bottom one open at all times. 

In this case the top button should remain fastened except for when you are sitting. The jacket should be unbuttoned, so you are not putting extra stress on the button itself, and to avoid creasing around the midsection.

With the different styles and button counts on coats, the easiest way to remember all of this info is the tried and true “Sometimes, Always, Never”. Just remember to alter that rule to fit your specific jacket, and you can't go wrong!