Wearing a suit or sport coat used to be a standard for men, for everything from work to going to a baseball game. And then, with advances in fabric technology, cultural changes – hello, polyester and disco – and economic shifts, men started wearing more casual clothes. Denim crept into our wardrobes. Many offices, especially in the early 2000’s took on a “business casual” environment where chinos, jeans, button down shirts, and sweaters became a new standard. Once the pendulum swings one way, though, it’s bound to swing back. We’re settling into a time now when suits and sport coats are making a strong comeback in our wardrobes – and they’ve really evolved to be so much more versatile than our structured suits from the ‘80’s and ‘90’s. Sure, suits will also be the quintessential polished look for work or a dressier event. 3-piece suits (with a vest), double breasted options, and slim silhouettes are stronger than ever. But they are also being worn with more of a casual, sportswear flare – layering with vests and outerwear, so it’s not just about your dress shirt and tie. And the same is certainly true for sport coats. Checks and plaids give sport coats a lot more interest, and silhouettes with a less structured shoulder create a more casual look for your jackets. All of these details make our coats great layering pieces over sweaters and sport shirts.

Take a look at a few of our favorites here, and then head over to Fashion Finds, to see more top picks for work, after 5, and casual dressing.
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