Short answer
Peak lapels point upward and add height and authority. Notch lapels have a small notch and are the versatile everyday choice. Choose peak for formal occasions, notch for everything else.
Peak lapel — adds height
The lapel points upward toward the shoulder. More formal, adds visual height and authority. Choose for business formal and evening wear.
Notch lapel — the everyday choice
The small notch where the collar meets the lapel. Works for everything from office to dinner. The most versatile.
Shawl collar — evening only
A smooth, rounded curve. Black tie, dinner jackets and formal occasions. The most elegant and the least versatile.
Questions people actually ask
Which lapel is more formal?+
Peak lapels are more formal — they add height and authority. Choose peak for business formal and evening wear.
Which lapel for my first suit?+
Notch — it works for everything from office to dinner and is the most versatile choice.
Can I choose the lapel on a made-to-measure suit?+
Yes — at Bonturberg the lapel type is one of your personalisation choices at the fitting, included in the written price.