Exploring 2017 New Style Suits: Material Grades, Properties, and Uses

Types of 2017 New Style Suits: Fashion, Fit, and Functionality

The year 2017 marked a turning point in men's suiting, where traditional formalwear evolved into a dynamic blend of comfort, individuality, and modern aesthetics. No longer confined to rigid, one-size-fits-all designs, 2017 new style suits embraced innovation in tailoring, fabric technology, and color theory. These suits were designed not only to reflect personal style but also to accommodate diverse body types and active lifestyles. From performance-driven stretch fabrics to bold two-tone combinations, the 2017 suit landscape celebrated versatility without sacrificing elegance. Below is a detailed exploration of the most influential suit types that defined the era.

S-Body Suits

Also known as "slim-fit" or "athletic-cut" suits, S-body suits are tailored to accentuate a muscular, V-shaped physique with a tapered waist and structured shoulders.

Advantages

• Enhances natural body contours for a sharp, modern silhouette
• Ideal for athletic or lean body types seeking a fashion-forward look
• Offers freedom of movement despite snug fit
• Versatile for both business and social events

Limitations

• May feel restrictive for broader or heavier builds
• Requires precise tailoring for optimal fit
• Less forgiving for extended wear or layering

Best for: Men with athletic builds, modern professionals, fashion-conscious individuals

Stretch Suits

Engineered with elastic fibers like Lycra or elastane, stretch suits offer enhanced flexibility and comfort without compromising formal appearance.

Advantages

• Superior comfort for long hours of wear
• Allows greater range of motion for sitting, standing, and traveling
• Wrinkle-resistant and low-maintenance fabrics
• Available in slim, modern cuts with contemporary styling

Limitations

• Potential for fabric pilling over time
• May lose elasticity with frequent washing
• Slightly less structured than traditional wool suits

Best for: Business professionals, frequent travelers, active office environments

Two-Tone Suits

These innovative suits combine two contrasting colors—such as a navy jacket with charcoal trousers or a gray waistcoat with a lighter tie—creating a bold, fashion-forward statement.

Advantages

• Expresses individuality while remaining office-appropriate
• Adds visual interest and depth to formal attire
• Can be worn as separates for maximum wardrobe versatility
• Perfect for weddings, parties, and creative industries

Limitations

• May not be suitable for conservative corporate settings
• Requires careful coordination of accessories
• Color combinations can date quickly if not chosen wisely

Best for: Creative professionals, wedding guests, fashion influencers

Chambray Suits

Made from lightweight cotton fabric similar to denim but softer and more refined, chambray suits offer a relaxed yet polished alternative to traditional wool.

Advantages

• Breathable and comfortable in warm weather
• Casual elegance suitable for semi-formal or smart-casual events
• Pairs well with both dress shoes and sneakers
• Easily styled with T-shirts or button-downs

Limitations

• Less formal than wool or worsted suits
• Prone to wrinkling and fading over time
• Limited to spring/summer or casual settings

Best for: Outdoor events, summer weddings, weekend brunches, creative workplaces

Textured Suits

Featuring rich weaves like herringbone, twill, corduroy (wale), or velvet, textured suits add depth, warmth, and tactile appeal to formalwear.

Advantages

• Visually dynamic—catches light and adds dimension
• Warmer and more insulating, ideal for fall and winter
• Exudes sophistication and timeless elegance
• Reduces the need for additional accessories due to inherent detail

Limitations

• Heavier fabrics may be too warm for summer
• Some textures (e.g., velvet) require special care
• Can appear dated if not styled with modern pieces

Best for: Winter weddings, holiday parties, evening events, formal funerals

Styling Tip: In 2017, the key to pulling off new style suits was balance. Pair a bold two-tone suit with a solid shirt, or offset a textured velvet jacket with minimalist accessories. For stretch and S-body suits, ensure a professional look by pairing with a crisp dress shirt and leather dress shoes.

Fashion Insight: The rise of the 2017 new style suit reflected a cultural shift toward personal expression in professional settings. As workplaces became more flexible, men embraced suits that combined performance, comfort, and personality—ushering in an era where "dressing well" meant dressing authentically.

Design of 2017 New Style Suits: A Modern Evolution in Men’s Tailoring

The year 2017 marked a pivotal moment in men's fashion, where traditional elegance met contemporary functionality. Suit design evolved significantly, embracing slimmer silhouettes, innovative fabrics, and refined details that catered to a modern, dynamic lifestyle. This transformation was driven by shifting workplace cultures, a growing emphasis on personal expression, and advancements in textile engineering. The result was a collection of suits that balanced sophistication with comfort, making them suitable for everything from boardroom meetings to evening galas.

Key Design Elements of 2017 Suits

Cut and Fit: The Rise of the Modern Silhouette

In 2017, the dominant trend in suit design was a shift toward a more tailored, athletic fit. Unlike the boxy, oversized suits of previous decades, the new style emphasized a streamlined silhouette that followed the natural contours of the body. This “athletic cut” was particularly popular among men with toned physiques, as it enhanced shoulder definition and tapered through the waist, creating a powerful yet elegant profile.

Designers increasingly incorporated stretch fabrics—blends of wool with elastane or Lycra—to improve mobility without sacrificing structure. These performance-oriented materials allowed wearers to move freely, making the suits ideal for active professionals and frequent travelers. The overall effect was a refined, modern look that maintained classic tailoring principles while adapting to contemporary demands for comfort and versatility.

Lapels: Defining Formality and Style

Lapels played a crucial role in determining the tone and appropriateness of a suit. In 2017, three primary lapel styles dominated the market, each serving a distinct purpose:

• Peak Lapels: Characterized by their upward-pointing edges, peak lapels conveyed authority and sophistication. They were most commonly found on double-breasted suits and formal wear, making them ideal for high-profile events, executive settings, and black-tie-adjacent occasions.
• Notched Lapels: The most traditional and widely accepted style, notched lapels offered a balanced, professional appearance. They remained the go-to choice for single-breasted business suits, blending seamlessly into corporate environments and everyday formal wear.
• Shawl Lapels: With their smooth, continuous curve, shawl lapels exuded elegance and were typically reserved for tuxedos and evening wear. Their resurgence in 2017 reflected a renewed interest in timeless glamour, especially for weddings, galas, and upscale social events.

While peak and shawl lapels retained their prestige, notched lapels gained popularity due to their versatility and alignment with modern business attire.

Color Trends: From Classic Neutrals to Seasonal Statements

Color remained a powerful tool for self-expression in 2017. While timeless shades like navy, charcoal gray, and black continued to anchor men’s wardrobes, designers introduced fresh interpretations through texture and subtle tonal variation.

Chambray-inspired weaves and two-tone fabrics brought depth and visual interest to traditionally monochrome suits, offering a relaxed yet polished alternative for creative industries and smart-casual settings. Lighter blues and soft grays gained traction as spring and summer favorites, providing a refreshing contrast to winter’s darker palette.

Textured finishes—such as birdseye, herringbone, and flannel—added warmth and dimension to classic colors, making them more adaptable across seasons and occasions. This nuanced approach allowed men to maintain professionalism while expressing individuality.

Pockets and Embellishments: Functional Elegance

Attention to detail elevated the 2017 suit beyond mere garmentry into the realm of craftsmanship. Functional elements like jetted pockets and ticket pockets—small pockets above the right-hand side—were not only practical but also contributed to the suit’s clean, uncluttered aesthetic.

Subtle embellishments such as pick stitching (a decorative hand-sewn line along lapels and edges) and contrasting thread details added sophistication without appearing ostentatious. These touches were often found on higher-end or bespoke suits, signaling quality and attention to detail.

The design philosophy emphasized minimalism and intentionality—every element served a purpose, whether functional or aesthetic. This approach resonated with a generation that valued authenticity, simplicity, and understated luxury.

Why 2017 Was a Turning Point in Suit Design

The 2017 suit represented a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. It preserved the dignity and structure of classic tailoring while embracing modern needs for comfort, flexibility, and personal style. The integration of stretch materials, refined cuts, and thoughtful detailing made suits more wearable than ever, appealing to a broader audience—from corporate leaders to creative professionals.

Note: While 2017 trends emphasized slim fits and modern details, proper fit remains paramount. A suit should enhance—not constrict—the wearer’s physique. Always consider body type, occasion, and personal comfort when selecting a suit. Consulting a tailor for adjustments ensures optimal appearance and longevity.

Scenarios of 2017 New Style Suits: Functionality, Fashion, and Flexibility

The 2017 men’s suit trend marked a pivotal shift in modern menswear, blending traditional elegance with contemporary versatility. No longer confined to boardrooms or black-tie events, suits evolved into multifunctional wardrobe staples suitable for a broad spectrum of occasions. From corporate offices to creative runways, the year celebrated innovation in cut, fabric, and styling—redefining how men engage with formalwear across professional, social, and artistic environments.

Business and Professional Settings

2017 reinforced the suit’s dominance in corporate culture, but with a modern twist: comfort and mobility took center stage. The rise of the athletic cut and stretch fabric suits catered to professionals who value both appearance and agility—ideal for executives traveling between meetings, giving presentations, or working in dynamic office environments.

• Functional Design: Four-way stretch wool blends and ergonomic tailoring allow full range of motion without sacrificing silhouette.
• Color Palette: Navy, charcoal gray, and classic black remained dominant, projecting professionalism and timelessness.
• Fit Philosophy: Slim yet comfortable cuts support prolonged wear, aligning with the modern ideal of a sharp, confident, and unhindered professional.

Key Insight: The 2017 business suit is not just about looking the part—it's about feeling capable and composed throughout a demanding workday.

Weddings and Formal Events

Formal occasions in 2017 embraced a fusion of tradition and personal expression. Grooms, groomsmen, and guests increasingly opted for stylish alternatives to the standard tuxedo, favoring elevated tailoring with distinctive details.

• Lapel Trends: Peak and shawl lapels gained popularity, offering a sophisticated nod to vintage glamour with a modern edge.
• Double-Breasted Revival: This classic style returned with slimmer proportions, adding drama without bulk.
• Color & Texture: Two-tone suits, light blue chambray, and textured wool provided visual interest while maintaining elegance—perfect for daytime weddings or upscale evening affairs.

Style Tip: Pair a navy double-breasted suit with a patterned pocket square and velvet loafers for a refined yet memorable formal look.

Casual Outings and Social Gatherings

One of the most transformative trends of 2017 was the casualization of the suit. No longer reserved for formal events, suits became a go-to choice for dinners, weekend brunches, and social meetups—especially in urban settings where “smart casual” reigned supreme.

• Chambray & Textured Fabrics: Lightweight materials like cotton chambray offered breathability and a relaxed aesthetic, perfect for warm-weather gatherings.
• Styling Flexibility: Blazers worn without ties, paired with crew-neck tees or roll-up sleeves, created a polished yet approachable vibe.
• Footwear Pairings: Sneakers, Chelsea boots, or suede loafers replaced oxfords, softening the overall look while maintaining style integrity.

Pro Tip: Roll up the sleeves and ditch the jacket for a transitional look from dinner to after-party.

Creative Performances and Fashion Shows

2017 saw the suit become a canvas for artistic experimentation. Fashion weeks in Milan, Paris, and New York showcased avant-garde interpretations that challenged conventions and celebrated individuality.

• Innovative Cuts: Asymmetrical lapels, exaggerated shoulders, and deconstructed blazers redefined tailoring boundaries.
• Bold Textures & Patterns: Herringbone, bouclé, and jacquard fabrics added depth, while two-tone color blocking made strong visual statements.
• Interactive Styling: Designers incorporated LED elements, detachable panels, and mixed-material layering, turning suits into wearable art.

Cultural Shift: The suit evolved from a symbol of conformity to a medium of self-expression, especially in creative industries and performance art.

Expert Insight: The 2017 suit trend reflects a broader cultural movement toward versatility and authenticity. Today’s man doesn’t just wear a suit—he adapts it. Whether it’s a stretch-fabric navy suit for the office, a chambray two-piece for a rooftop dinner, or a double-breasted statement piece for a wedding, the key is choosing a foundation that aligns with both occasion and personal style. Tailoring, fabric, and fit remain paramount, but confidence in styling is what truly completes the look.

Additional Trends That Defined 2017 Suits

• Fit Over Formality: Proper tailoring became more important than strict adherence to traditional rules. A well-fitted slim suit in a casual fabric was often preferred over an ill-fitting formal one.
• Sustainability: Eco-friendly fabrics and ethical production methods began gaining attention, especially among younger consumers.
• Color Experimentation: Beyond navy and gray, soft pastels, olive green, and burgundy emerged as popular choices for fashion-forward individuals.
• Mix-and-Match Separates: Blazers and trousers in complementary but non-matching colors or textures allowed for personalized, modular styling.
• Global Influence: Designers drew inspiration from Japanese minimalism, Italian tailoring, and British heritage, creating a richly diverse suit landscape.

Specification & Maintenance of 2017 New Style Suits

Understanding the specifications and proper care of 2017’s trending suit styles is essential for preserving their elegance, fit, and longevity. This guide dives into the fabric choices, construction details, and maintenance routines that defined modern suiting in 2017—helping you make informed decisions whether you're wearing, storing, or caring for these garments today.

Important Note: Many 2017 suit designs emphasized modern aesthetics and comfort, incorporating stretch materials and refined tailoring. Proper maintenance is crucial to preserve these qualities, especially as fabrics like wool, cotton, and velvet each require unique care approaches.

Specifications of 2017 Suit Styles

• Fabric Choices: Style, Comfort, and Durability

  The fabric of a suit plays a pivotal role in its appearance, comfort, and longevity. In 2017, designers expanded beyond traditional wool to embrace a broader range of materials, catering to both formal elegance and casual versatility.

  • Wool: The gold standard for formal and business suits, wool offered a luxurious drape, natural wrinkle resistance, and excellent durability. Ideal for year-round wear, especially in cooler climates. Variants like worsted wool provided a smooth finish, while flannel added texture and warmth.
  • Cotton: Lightweight and breathable, cotton suits were favored for summer events and informal occasions. While comfortable, cotton is prone to wrinkling and moderate wear, requiring more frequent care. Chambray and seersucker cotton blends were particularly popular in 2017 for their relaxed yet stylish appeal.
  • Velvet & Textured Fabrics: Reserved for evening events and high-fashion statements, velvet suits made a bold return in 2017. Luxurious and rich in appearance, they demanded careful handling due to their sensitivity to moisture, crushing, and dust.
  • Stretch Blends: A hallmark of 2017 suiting innovation, fabrics incorporating 2–5% elastane (spandex) offered enhanced mobility without sacrificing structure. These suits were ideal for active professionals seeking comfort in a tailored silhouette.
  • Synthetic Blends: Polyester and rayon blends were used to reduce cost and increase wrinkle resistance, though often at the expense of breathability and premium feel.

  Wear & Tear Summary:

  • Wool: High durability; resists pilling and maintains shape well with proper care. Avoid excessive friction and store carefully to prevent shine.
  • Cotton: Moderate durability; prone to creasing and tearing with frequent use. Best rotated with other suits.
  • Velvet: Low durability; susceptible to crushing, staining, and dust accumulation. Recommended for special occasions only.
• Construction and Fit: Modern Tailoring Trends

  2017 saw a shift toward sleek, body-conscious silhouettes that balanced tradition with contemporary style. Key construction features included:

  • Athletic and Slim Fits: Designed to flatter broader shoulders and tapered waists, these cuts provided a sharp, modern profile without restricting movement.
  • Single-Breasted Design: Dominated the market for its clean, minimalist look—typically with two or three buttons and narrow lapels.
  • Precision Tailoring: Emphasis on clean lines, structured shoulders, and minimal detailing (e.g., no vents or single-vented jackets) to achieve a streamlined aesthetic.
  • High-Quality Craftsmanship: Premium suits featured hand-stitched lapels, functional buttonholes, and canvassed construction (as opposed to fused), ensuring longevity and a natural drape.
• Lining and Functional Details

  The interior of a suit is more than just a finish—it impacts breathability, comfort, and functionality.

  • Lining Materials: Viscose (rayon) was the most common lining fabric in 2017, offering smooth movement, breathability, and a polished interior. Some high-end suits used Bemberg cupro for superior softness and moisture-wicking.
  • Internal Pockets: Modern suits often included hidden pockets for phones, wallets, or pens—strategically placed to avoid distorting the suit’s shape.
  • External Pockets: Flap pockets and chest pockets were subtly designed to maintain clean lines. Ticket pockets (double jetted) added a vintage flair to select models.
  • Vent Options: Most suits featured either a center vent or were ventless for a sleek back profile, aligning with the minimalist design trend.

Maintenance Guide for 2017 Suit Styles

• Regular Care: Preserving Appearance and Shape

  Consistent daily maintenance extends the life of any suit:

  • Use a soft-bristled clothing brush after each wear to remove dust, lint, and debris—especially on wool and cotton suits.
  • For velvet, use a specialized velvet brush or soft cloth, gently stroking in the direction of the pile to restore texture.
  • Always hang suits on wide, contoured wooden or padded hangers to maintain shoulder shape and prevent stretching.
  • Allow suits to rest for 24–48 hours between wears to let fibers recover and prevent odor buildup.
• Cleaning: When and How to Clean

  Improper cleaning is a leading cause of suit damage. Follow these guidelines:

  • Dry Cleaning: Limit to once every 3–4 months or after 5–6 wears. Over-dry cleaning can strip natural oils from wool and degrade linings.
  • Spot Cleaning: Address small stains immediately with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid rubbing; instead, blot gently. Test on an inconspicuous area first.
  • Never Machine Wash: Water and agitation can shrink wool, distort structure, and ruin delicate linings.
  • Special Fabrics: Velvet and textured suits should only be cleaned by professionals familiar with delicate pile fabrics.
• Storage: Long-Term Suit Preservation

  Proper storage prevents damage from moths, moisture, and deformation:

  • Use breathable cotton garment bags—avoid plastic, which traps moisture and promotes mildew.
  • Store in a cool, dry, dark closet away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
  • Include cedar blocks or anti-moth sachets to deter pests, especially for wool suits.
  • Rotate seasonal suits and avoid overcrowding to maintain airflow and shape.
• Ironing and Steaming: Safe Wrinkle Removal

  Improper heat can ruin delicate fabrics:

  • Steaming is Preferred: A garment steamer gently removes wrinkles without direct contact, ideal for wool, cotton, and blends.
  • If Ironing: Use a low heat setting and always place a pressing cloth between the iron and suit. Never iron velvet—steam only.
  • Focus on high-crease areas: lapels, collars, cuffs, and trouser creases. Use a tailor’s ham for curved areas like lapels.
  • Avoid high-gloss finishes, which indicate scorching or over-pressing.

Expert Tip: After wearing a suit, hang it overnight in a steamy bathroom (after a shower) to naturally relax wrinkles and refresh the fabric—especially effective for wool and cotton suits. This reduces the need for frequent dry cleaning and helps maintain fabric integrity.

Additional Care Recommendations

• Inspect suits monthly for loose buttons, fraying threads, or stains.
• Rotate between multiple suits to reduce wear on any single garment.
• Consider professional pressing between cleanings to maintain sharpness.
• Repair minor damages (e.g., loose linings) promptly to prevent further deterioration.
• Keep a care log noting cleaning dates and repairs for valuable suits.

While 2017’s suit trends emphasized modern comfort and sleek aesthetics, their longevity depends on informed care. By understanding fabric properties and following proper maintenance routines, you can preserve the elegance and fit of your suits for years to come. When in doubt, consult a professional tailor or dry cleaner experienced in handling fine suiting fabrics.

Frequently Asked Questions About 2017 New Style Suits

In 2017, the fashion industry embraced a blend of classic elegance and modern functionality, reflected in the materials chosen for new style suits. The most commonly used fabrics included:

• Wool: The dominant fabric in suit construction due to its natural breathability, durability, and excellent drape. Wool fibers regulate body temperature, resist wrinkles, and provide a professional appearance, making them ideal for business, formal events, and year-round wear.
• Stretch Fabrics: Blends incorporating spandex or elastane (typically 1–3%) became increasingly popular, especially in slim-fit and performance-oriented suits. These materials enhance comfort and mobility, making them perfect for long workdays or travel.
• Cotton: Valued for its softness and breathability, cotton suits were favored in warmer climates or for summer wear. While less structured than wool, cotton offers a relaxed, casual elegance suitable for daytime events or creative workplaces.
• Textured Materials (e.g., Velvet): Used for statement pieces and evening wear, velvet added a luxurious, tactile dimension to 2017’s fashion landscape. Its rich appearance made it a favorite for weddings, galas, and holiday events, though its delicate nature and higher maintenance limited everyday use.

Designers often combined these fabrics into blends—such as wool-silk, wool-cotton, or wool-polyester with stretch—to balance aesthetics, comfort, and practicality.

Dry cleaning should be approached strategically to preserve the fabric’s integrity and extend the suit’s lifespan. Over-cleaning can strip natural fibers of oils and accelerate wear. Here are best practices:

• Frequency: Limit dry cleaning to 2–3 times per year for regularly worn suits. For occasional wear (e.g., once a month), once annually may suffice.
• Event-Based Cleaning: Suits worn to high-exposure events like weddings, parties, or dinners should be cleaned afterward to remove body oils, perfume residues, and potential spills.
• Spot Maintenance: Address minor stains immediately with a damp cloth or professional spot treatment. Avoid rubbing; instead, gently blot to prevent spreading.
• Odor & Freshness: If the suit smells stale but isn’t visibly soiled, air it out or use a handheld steamer. Steaming also helps relax wrinkles and refresh the fabric without chemical exposure.
• Pre-Storage Cleaning: Always clean a suit before long-term storage. Residual sweat or oils attract moths and can set stains over time.

Choosing a reputable dry cleaner experienced with fine tailoring ensures gentle handling and proper pressing, preserving the suit’s shape and finish.

The 2017 suit silhouette emphasized a slimmer, more tailored profile—close to the body but not restrictive. Fortunately, many of these suits were constructed with adjustability in mind:

• Half-Canvassed Construction: Most premium 2017 suits featured half-canvassing, where the chest and lapel are layered with canvas for structure, while allowing some flexibility. This enables minor waist suppression by a skilled tailor without compromising the jacket’s natural drape.
• Sleeve and Hem Adjustments: Sleeve length and trouser hems can typically be altered by 1–1.5 inches. Excessive shortening may expose unfinished linings or disrupt the break of the pant.
• Shoulder Modifications: Shoulder adjustments are generally not recommended, as they affect the entire structure of the jacket. The original shoulder line should match the wearer’s frame.
• Modern Tailoring Aids: Some designs included discreet side adjusters or elastic inserts at the back waist, allowing wearers to fine-tune the fit for different body conditions (e.g., weight fluctuation) while preserving the fabric and original tailoring.
• Collar Integrity: The collar is shaped during construction and should not be altered or turned down, as this can distort the lapel roll and ruin the jacket’s appearance.

For best results, consult a professional tailor familiar with modern suiting. Over-altering can compromise the garment’s integrity and resale value.

Moths are a serious threat to natural fiber garments, particularly wool, which they consume for its keratin content. Preventative care is essential for preserving your investment:

• Natural Repellents: Use lavender sachets, cedar blocks, or dried rosemary in your closet. These emit scents that deter moths without harsh chemicals. Refresh or replace them every 3–6 months for continued effectiveness.
• Regular Cleaning: Moths are attracted to organic residues like sweat, food spills, and skin oils. Always clean suits before storing them to remove these attractants.
• Proper Storage: Store suits in breathable cotton garment bags—not plastic—since plastic traps moisture and creates a humid environment conducive to moth activity and mildew.
• Air Circulation: Avoid overcrowding your closet. Allow space between garments for air to circulate, reducing humidity buildup.
• Seasonal Inspections: Check stored suits every few months, especially when transitioning between seasons. Look for signs of moths, such as tiny holes, webbing, or larvae casings.
• Vacuum & Clean Closets: Regularly vacuum closet shelves and corners where moths may lay eggs. Wipe down wooden surfaces with a vinegar solution to eliminate lingering odors.

By combining cleanliness, natural deterrents, and smart storage, you can protect your 2017 suits from moth damage and keep them looking pristine for years.