Suit: meaning, definitions and examples

Historical Origins

• The suit as we know it started to take shape in the 17th century, originally consisting of knee-length coats and long trousers.
• In the 19th century, the modern three-piece suit (jacket, trousers, and waistcoat) became popular among Western gentlemen.
• Tailoring and fabric choices heavily influenced styles, with the industrial revolution making suits more accessible to the middle class.

Fashion

• The color and style of a suit can say a lot about the wearer's profession or personality; business suits are often gray or navy, while creative fields may embrace bolder colors.
• Accessories like ties, shoes, and pocket squares can completely change how a suit looks, allowing for personal expression within a formal framework.
• With the rise of casual clothes in business settings, suits are being reinvented with more relaxed fits and fabrics like denim or knit.

Pop Culture

• Suits have been popularized in countless films and TV shows, symbolizing power, professionalism, and sometimes, deception – think of characters in 'Mad Men' or 'The Godfather'.
• The iconic image of a suit was also heavily influenced by musicians and actors in the 20th century, who used fashion to create memorable personas.
• The phrase 'dressed to the nines’ often refers to being very well-dressed, implying that a suit is the outfit of choice for making a grand impression.

Psychology

• Wearing a suit can enhance feelings of confidence and authority, affecting how others perceive the wearer as more competent.
• Research shows that dressing well can improve cognitive function and performance, highlighting the psychological benefits of formal attire.
• Colors and styles of suits can evoke different emotions; for instance, a bright-colored suit might seem more approachable, while a dark suit can appear more serious.

International Variations

• Different cultures have their own traditional 'suits'; for example, the Japanese kimono or the Indian sherwani serve similar formal purposes.
• In some countries, business attire leans towards more casual styles, while others still adhere to traditional suits for all formal interactions.
• The way suits are worn can vary significantly across cultures, with some emphasizing accessories, while others focus on the cut and fit of the suit.

Positioned at #1,481, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.

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