How to Fold a Suit Jacket: Mastering the Classic and Advanced Techniques

I. Introduction

When it comes to suits, proper storage is essential. If you’re someone who frequently travels or needs to pack a suit jacket, knowing how to fold it properly can make a world of difference. It not only ensures the jacket stays neat and wrinkle-free but also extends its lifespan. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to fold a suit jacket, offer some advanced techniques, eco-friendly alternatives, and even a DIY suit jacket organizer.

II. The Classic Fold: Step-by-Step Instructions

The traditional way of folding a suit jacket is still one of the most efficient and favored ways of doing so. Here’s how to fold your suit jacket:

1. Unbutton the jacket and turn it inside out, then lay it flat on a clean surface, with the sleeves outstretched.
2. Take one half of the jacket and fold it to the back, followed by the other half. Keep the collar facing down.
3. Take the sleeves and fold them back so that they run parallel along the back of the jacket.
4. Finally, take the bottom of the jacket and fold it up towards the collar, making sure it’s straight and lies flat.

To avoid wrinkles, try to keep the folds as tight as possible. You could also layer tissue paper over the jacket to provide a little extra padding.

III. Mastering the Art: Advanced Techniques

If you want to take things up a notch, here are some advanced techniques for folding a suit jacket:

1. The Roll-Up Method: This folding technique requires you to roll the jacket into a tight, compact bundle. Start with the jacket inside out, then fold one-third of the jacket inward before folding the sleeves in. Roll the jacket tightly from the bottom up while smoothing out any wrinkles.
2. The Inner Lining Method: For this technique, fold the jacket inside out as with the classic fold. Then, fold it in half vertically and tuck the sleeves inside the jacket. Next, tuck the bottom of the jacket up until it meets the collar. Finally, tuck the entire jacket into itself, resulting in a small, compact bundle.

Based on your needs and the type of jacket, different techniques may be more suitable. For linen and summer suits, for example, the roll-up method works best.

IV. Quick and Easy Methods for Traveling

When you’re traveling, you need to be able to pack your jacket efficiently and quickly. Here are some tips and quick alternative folding methods for different travel situations:

1. The Suitcase Fold: Lay the jacket flat in your suitcase with the sleeves extended outwards. Fold one sleeve across the jacket and then the other. Finally, fold the jacket in half from bottom to top.
2. The Hanger Method: Fold the jacket as you would for the classic fold, but keep it facing outward. Slip it into a protective garment bag and hang it in your closet once you arrive.
3. The Stuff and Go Method: If you’re in a hurry, you can alternatively stuff the jacket sleeves inward and lay the jacket flat at the bottom of your suitcase. This method is not recommended, however, as it can lead to creases or wrinkles.

V. Eco-Friendly Alternatives

If you’re conscious of the impact you have on the environment, there are sustainable ways to fold a suit jacket without using single-use plastics:

1. The Towel Method: Take a clean towel and lay the jacket on it with the collar facing down. Fold the sleeves back and then fold the towel over the jacket, making sure it’s completely covered. Finally, roll the towel and jacket into a tight bundle.
2. The Reusable Garment Bag: Use a high-quality, reusable garment bag made from recycled materials to protect and store your suit jackets when traveling.

VI. Hybrid Solutions

If you want to find a customized approach that works for you, combining different folding techniques can be an excellent solution. Don’t be afraid to experiment with methods to see what works best for your needs and the type of suit jacket you have.

VII. DIY Suit Jacket Organizer

Want to maximize space and minimize clutter? Create your own DIY suit jacket organizer! Here’s how:

1. Take a hanger and slide two shower curtain rings onto it.
2. Slip the suit jacket over the hanger and rings, so the rings are at the bottom of the jacket.
3. Then, pull the jacket down through the rings, creating two shoulder straps in the process.
4. Finally, hang the hanger in your closet or on a hook, and your suit jacket will take up minimal space and stay protected from wrinkles and creases.

VIII. Conclusion

Knowing how to fold a suit jacket properly can make all the difference in how well it holds up over time. From the classic fold to advanced techniques, there are plenty of ways to fold your jacket to keep it wrinkle-free and protect its shape. Don’t forget to try out different methods and find the best option for your needs.