A Short History of Lapels

The genesis of lapels can be traced back to the military uniforms of the 17th century, where functionality and decoration began to intertwine. Initially designed to allow soldiers to button up their coats for warmth or unbutton them for ease of movement, lapels evolved into a staple of civilian menswear in the 18th century. The tailcoat, a precursor to the modern suit jacket, featured lapels that were as much a statement of style as they were a remnant of their utilitarian past. In the 19th century, as the industrial revolution brought about a democratization of fashion, the lapel became a canvas for personal expression and a reflection of one’s social status. The Victorian era saw a rise in the intricacy and variety of lapel styles, with morning coats, frock coats, and evening tails each boasting distinct lapel shapes and sizes, indicative of the garment’s formality and the wearer’s class. <a href="https://medium.com/ai-and-mens-fashion/a-short-history-of-lapels-3850a68ad11e">Read More</a>