Reader Questions

From Chase

"I am about to purchase a suit for the first time in ten years, and have been watching Cary Grant movies to see his style in men's clothing. I just finished watching The Awful Truth.

In this film, Grant wears three piece suits with the jacket buttoned. I am not familiar with this look at all. I thought if one is wearing a vest, one would display it. Is this just an affectation of Grant's, or of the 1930s, when this film was made? Or am I incorrect, and it is appropriate to wear a three piece suit in this manner?"

Watching Cary Grant is a great way to learn. Jackets should normally be buttoned while you are standing so they don't flap about and display the lining. But don't make too much of this. No-one will pillory you for leaving a single breasted coat unbuttoned (double breasted is another matter). Grant's jacket is open many times on camera, even when he's not being chased by a crop duster.