“Do I fasten my waistcoat bottom button or not?” I’m often asked this question. I would love to say “No, Do NOT…Totally and 100% NO!” and I will but I wish I could say why with 100% fact.
There are 4 main theories to this conundrum and, although you could argue its personal choice, the reasons below would strengthen why my personal choice is to leave it unfastened.
This was blog was on of the first things I wanted to write about as I’m always asked on the day. For more of my blog click here.
The theories listed below are in no particular order to shed light on why the bottom button on waistcoats should remain unfastened.
“Poor Edward”
“Fine & Dandy”
When Edward the VII (Prince of Wales) became quite rotund he couldn’t fasten his bottom button. To make him feel better about his body image the court followed him and thus it became the fashion.
At one point the dandies deemed it was fashionable to wear 2 waistcoats. To show the bottom waistcoat and their refinery they would leave the top waistcoat open at the bottom.
“Bl@#dy Students”
“Giddy up”
Another popular theory is that, in the Victorian days, members of an exclusive club called “Pop” at Eton wore the waistcoat like this. Later on in life the same members would carry on this tradition and, being part of the nations “Elite”, it didn’t take long before Saville Row tailors adopted the habit to entice these so called Elite.
When a gentleman was in the saddle a buttoned waistcoat would ride up the chest a little spoiling one’s appearance, therefore it was a necessity for comfort and appearance, when riding a horse, to leave it open.
As a side note I often get asked where to get grooms suits from, there are many places but I personally love the service I get at Slaters. The staff are always helpful and they offer free tailoring with the suits you purchase.
“Elegance is not standing out, but being remembered”
– Giorgio Armani
Conclusion
Personally, I prefer it open and over the years I have wondered, when in a room full of gentlemen who have theirs buttoned up, “but should I fasten it?” I don’t have a horse, I’m far from being an Eton student, my main go to look is jeans and t-shirt and I have never been to the palace. The only time I get to really wear this fine garment piece is when I have the honour of being a guest or am working at a wedding so it’s a “leave unfastened” from me.
I hope this helps.
