Fashion Trivia: The Suit Jacket Vent

Why is there a vent in the back of your suit jacket? By Janine Giorgenti I get this question time to time. Discerning customers inquire about the different elements of a suit ensemble, in particular their

suit jacket.

Dating back to nearly a century ago, suit-wearing men – who rode horses – discovered that they needed a way to mount a horse without splitting their suit coats. The vent was devised as means to provide enhanced flexibility and range in movement for those wearing a suit.

(Image via thenobspot.weebly.com)

As a tip of the cap to the evolution of the suit jacket vent, today’s equestrian riders wear suit coats with double back vents (with vents on both sides of the back flap).

Bonus Tip: Heavier set men (or men with a larger derriere) will find the double back vent more desirable, as the design (and lay) allows for the illusion of length. A single vent can work against heavier set men, as certain movements (eg: putting your hands in your pocket) may lift the jacket from the sides, revealing the areas you’re looking to conceal in the first place.

(Main image via VeritasImage.com)

Update your summer look with a beautiful new suit, shirt, and tie combination from Giorgenti New York.

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About the Author

Janine Giorgenti For over 25 years, Janine Giorgenti, renowned fashion designer and image consultant – has provided a long line of satisfied clients with unparalleled service and first class made-to-measure custom suits. Featured in the Wall Street Journal, Vogue Magazine, The New York Times, CNN, Fox News, CBS, and other top media outlets – Janine has established a clientele of some of New York’s most successful and discerning professionals – including such New York dignitaries as former New York Islanders legend Bobby Nystrom and chief economist Dr. Irwin Kellner.