The history of women's suits dates back to the time of the French Revolution, when women began to wear trousers for practical reasons. Over time, they claimed their right to wear suits, but it came with difficulty. At the beginning of the 20th century, the women's suit was considered a bold and avant-garde choice, often reserved for those who worked in free professions such as medicine or law.
For a long time, the “jacket and trousers” ensemble was a feminine version of men's suits, with slender cuts to highlight curves. Today the suit allows women to emphasize their personality and evokes their status. So, we are going to figure out in this article what are the main differences between the male and the female version of this attire.
How do you know at first sight if it is about a men's or a women's jacket? One of the biggest differences is in the buttoning: indeed, men have the buttons on the right side, and the other way around for women. This contrast dates back to the time when high society ladies, given the complexity of their outfits, were assisted by their maid. Therefore, the buttoning that went from right to left was easier for their maid, positioned in front of them.
Another difference is the fit. Women actually have more freedom in this regard. For example, they have the option of a super slim cut (very close to the body), or oversize (“too big”). In terms of the length of the jacket, they can choose from very long ones, often reaching the knees, to bolero-style jackets, to show off high-waisted trousers for example. Also, the length of the sleeves can be adapted according to the personal style of each (3/4 sleeves, extra-long...). It's about choosing the right options, with the aim of obtaining the best effect for the silhouette of each one.
Thus, in terms of cuts, women can afford much more than men, who must keep fairly classic characteristics in terms of measurements and lengths.
It's almost the same for pants: men will keep very standard criteria, whilst there are many more options for women, especially regarding the length and width of the bottom of the pants. A woman can indeed opt for several cuts, such as the slim cigarette for more formal occasions, or on the contrary to very flared high-waisted pants to wear casually and have more comfort.
In addition, women are freer in choosing what they will wear under a suit. They can opt for a blouse, a shirt, a T-Shirt, a tank top, etc. It is a question of playing with different looks and finding the one that suits them. Men, on the contrary, are limited to wearing only a shirt with this kind of outfit.
The choice of fabrics is also different for the two sexes. In our shop, women can use the ranges of fabrics that we offer for men (wool, linen, cotton), but also have access to materials intended only for them. These are collections of crepe, shantung silk, tweed bouclé among others, very colorful fabrics that evoke femininity.
Opting for clothes in very strong tones such as fuchsia or turquoise is also a relevant choice to stand out, assert your style or get out of your comfort zone.
Women are entitled to choose the same collar and lapel shapes as men, however, in tailoring, men’s collars are generally wider and more structured than those of women’s. Moreover, female customers, who decide to order a made-to-measure outfit, can select more extravagant or even more colorful customizations than men. It is a choice of lining, buttons or contrasting buttonhole threads that make a suit unique.
In summary, women have more freedom in terms of customizing their suit. They can play with different choices of cuts, more original colors, and adopt looks that suit them. On the men's side, the customization possibilities are often more limited, which does not prevent them from being able to opt for more eccentric looks!