You might have already heard in the past that the only button that you need to fasten in your sport blazer is its waist button. Now, that’s easy, right? Well, maybe not as simple as you think. For sure, you still have other question such as which is your waist button and how do you even button your blazer the right way?

To put an end to your confusion, the waist button is that button on the suit blazer that a tailor places at the waist by tradition. Now, this might not be exactly placed at the natural waistline that is around 2 inches on top of your belly button since tailors tend to measure just a bit differently. However, this is where this button’s name came from. It means that when you are standing, these are the rules that you need to follow:

• Button the only button in your one-button suit.
• Button the top button in your two-suit button but never button the one at the bottom.
• The middle button or the two buttons on the top can be buttoned in a three-button suit. The bottom one should never be buttoned at all.

The main reason why these rules are important is because the drape and fit of the blazer mainly depends on the waist button. It is the reason why you might have been told before that it is best to have your suit blazer buttoned while you are standing. If not, the blazer’s fit will not appear as fine. But, if you sit down while wearing any kind of suit blazer, it is best that you undo all the buttons.

What if you will attend a wedding and you have plans to dance the night away? Interestingly, the answer to this question will vary based on the kind of dancing you want to do. If it is only a slow dance, it is most suitable that you keep the blazer buttoned based on the rules above. On the other hand, if you will dance to fast-paced music, your blazer can be completely unbuttoned.

Now, if you will really go all out dancing with your friends, you might want to just remove your blazer, roll up your sleeves to the elbows then loosen the tie knots. However, this is something that you should never do during a nice and more formal sit-down dinner. No matter how hot it gets in the room, never take off your blazer while eating. The best thing you can do is drink cold water and excuse yourself politely to the restroom to wipe your forehead instead of dining without your blazer.

Just like other rules, the button rule also has an exception. If you are living in an area with cold climate with the risk of your suit blazer blowing open while outdoors, don’t think twice and button up all its buttons. In this specific instance, there is nothing wrong here since function is more important than form. A fully buttoned up blazer with monogrammed custom blazer buttons will surely look better instead of letting it wildly flap in the wind.