Lapels are the folded coverings of cloth on the front part of the jacket of men’s suits. Generally, lapels are designed by folding the front edges of the jacket and then sewing them to the collar.
Lapels normally come with a buttonhole on the left side designed to hold a boutonniere or a flower; this will generally be used at formal events but otherwise is left untouched.
There are three types of lapels: peak, notch and shawl. The notch lapel – also known as step collar or step lapel – has a V shape cut into the lapel; this creates a step effect. It is the most common type and is generally found in men’s suits for business use.
The peak lapel, also known as a point lapel, has an upward point. These are conventionally associated with more formal wear; they are traditionally featured in double-breasted jackets but these days can be found on single-breasted jackets too.
Shawl lapels, a continuous curve with no notch or peak, are usually seen only on tuxedos and dinner jackets.