This blog post has been automatically translated from Icelandic.
When people are taking their first steps into the world of well-dressed men, it may be surprising how many numbers there are in most garments, whether we are talking about trousers, waistcoats, jackets or coats. The numbers send the message that you know what you're doing and know the basic rules of being well dressed, or not.
Jackets
When it comes to jackets, there is a simple rule to follow, which is as follows:
jacket with two numbers - the upper number should be buttoned during the ceremony and never button the lower.
a jacket with three numbers - sometimes the top button, the middle during activities and never the bottom.
or
2 numbers - always , never
and
3 numbers - sometimes , always, never
If the jacket has one number, it should be buttoned during the ceremony.
Jackets should not be buttoned while sitting and should be unbuttoned (with one hand) before taking a seat.
But if you're wearing a vest, what do you do?
If you are wearing a vest, it is not mandatory to button your jacket, but of course it is not forbidden or frowned upon, but it is unnecessary.
Double-breasted jackets
On double-breasted jackets (see photo), two rows of numbers run down the belly, which can confuse some in the space. The left row, however, is only a little to do with the appearance. On the inside of the jacket on the left side there is a number that is buttoned but not visible, it is to keep the garment balanced so that it does not lean in the other direction, then there is usually one number on the right side that you button. The upper number is usually buttoned if there are more than two numbers, but the Italian has made it fashionable to button the lower number for a more casual and relaxed look. You can get a double-breasted jacket with 6, 4 or 2 numbers. more than there are for royalty and formal military wear.
You don't unbutton double-breasted jackets when you sit down.
Waistcoat
Men wear waistcoats less and less now, but if you decide to do it, it's nice to follow the rules.
If you are wearing a so-called normal waistcoat (but not double-breasted, more on that later) you button all but the bottom number on the waistcoat, but if the waistcoat is too short and it shows too much of the shirt or the tie underneath, it is better to button the bottom number, it is much neater.
Double-breasted waistcoat
Other than double-breasted jackets, all numbers on a double-breasted waistcoat must be buttoned, the number on the inside and all on the outside.
Pants
Most suit pants have numbers on the inside and more often than not there are two on the waistband. All the numbers on the string must be buttoned, but there is no obligation to button the inside of the pants, and for some, this is just another unnecessary number to button in order to get to the toilet.
In trousers, you can get strap numbers, such as for straps. You actually get this not out shop today and that's why you don't see men with braces or with braces with clips, we recommend against using such. Get someone to sew numbers onto the string or get custom numbered pants for suspenders and splurge on real suspenders, you won't regret it.
Shirts
When it comes to shirts, conditions matter, if you're going out on a limb, no one is bragging about the top two numbers, lower than that is debatable. But if you are at some kind of business meeting, for example applying for a job in an office or an important event such as a funeral or a wedding, it is a duty and respect to button up the top number and wear an appropriate tie. This shows that you take both the situation and yourself seriously enough to A) buy a shirt that fits properly and B) learn how to tie a tie.
French
Frenchmen should be buttoned up as they see fit and there are no rules for them. If you are hot, you button up, but if the weather is bad (as is often the case in Iceland) you button up all the numbers and run for cover.
Conclusion
Jackets - Never a bottom unless you are wearing a jacket with a single number.
Double-breasted jackets - The number inside the jacket and one on the outside.
Waistcoat - Preferably not the bottom, unless you can see too much of the shirt at the bottom.
Double breasted waistcoat - All the numbers, also inside the waistcoat.
Pants - At least all fasteners on the string.
Shirts - Up to the neck on important occasions + tie, otherwise casual.
French - Whatever works.
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