suits

A suit is a coordinated set of clothing for men or unisex wear, consisting of a jacket and matching trousers, usually worn with a shirt and tie. In many cases a waistcoat is included, creating a three-piece suit. Suits are a standard form of Western business and formal attire and are worn in many cultures for professional, ceremonial, and social occasions.

Jacket styles vary from single-breasted to double-breasted. Notch, peak, and shawl lapels are common, and jackets may feature vents at the back. Trouser styles include flat-front or pleated cuts. The fabric is typically wool or wool blends, with lighter weights for summer and lighter colors for warm climates; linen and cotton blends are also used in hot weather.

Historically, the modern suit developed in the 19th century from tailored coats and became widespread as business attire in the 20th century. Today, suits signal formality or professionalism in many regions. Dress codes range from business formal to business casual, and cultural norms shape how suits are worn and interpreted.

Fit and maintenance are important. A well-fitting suit should allow comfortable movement, with sleeves showing a small amount of shirt cuff and trousers with an appropriate break. Most suits are dry-cleaned; jackets are kept on hangers and pressed to maintain shape. Tailoring is common to achieve a precise fit.

Variants include the three-piece suit with a waistcoat, the morning coat for formal daytime events, and the tuxedo or dinner suit for black-tie occasions. In some markets, the term lounge suit refers to a standard business suit.