Doublebreasted

Doublebreasted, commonly written as double-breasted, is a style of jacket or coat in which the front panels overlap and are fastened by two parallel columns of buttons. The overlap is typically wide, producing a formal, structured look and a more pronounced chest silhouette than a single-breasted garment.

Garment construction usually involves two rows of buttons and a broad front, with the inner row often functional and the outer row sometimes decorative. Common configurations include jackets with multiple buttons per column, and varying numbers of usable fasteners, such as four or six in total.

Doublebreasted jackets are generally perceived as more formal and authoritative, frequently associated with business attire, evening wear, or traditional outerwear. They create a broader shoulder line and a vertical line of fabric in the chest, while lapels can range from wide notched to peak styles.

Historically, the double-breasted silhouette rose in the 19th century and became a staple of menswear and military coats, notably in pea jackets and dress suits. It has waxed and waned in popularity, with revivals in modern fashion across both genders.

In contemporary wardrobes, doublebreasted garments appear in wool suiting, blends, and casual outerwear. They are offered in various lengths and fits, from structured blazers to long coats. Care typically involves dry cleaning or gentle laundering according to fabric, and proper tailoring for balance.