Man in Business Suit - Flat Front or Pleated Pants?

TX_Aggie_Dad · May 2013

So I'm a mid to late thirties professional in a somewhat conservative accounting firm. I just got put on a client that will require me to wear a professional business suit 3-4 days per week at the client. Acknowledging how much that is going to suck in the heat of the summer, I will still need to pick up 2-3 new suits. The big question - flat front or pleated pants?

I have a relatively athletic build while still trying to lose another 3-4 inches off my waist. The internet seems to have quite a bit of bias toward flat front, but when I look around the only people I really see wearing flat front are those in their 20's or those that are extremely lean/skinny (not muscular at all). What say you, MFP?

Timshel_ · May 2013

With a dress suit I like a few pleats.

Casual suit, don't care either way.

I don't really like the look of the flat front personally.

goldenboy2532 · May 2013

I rock the flat front. Honestly, I think the pleats are well suited for the gentlemen that are more than few pounds heavy

AggieCass09 · May 2013

flat front. always.

NotRailMeat · May 2013

Suit Jacket = Pleats
Blazer or Sports Coat = Flat Front

In case you don't know the difference between the three...
http://dappered.com/2011/06/the-differences-between-a-sportcoat-blazer-and-suit-jacket/

jersey_jenn · May 2013

I prefer the look of the flat front, pleats seem too poofy, especially when seated.

hellokittymaui · May 2013

Hmmmm.....I'd have to see you in said flat-front or pleated suit pants.

I say, whichever one YOU feel comfortable in and feel that YOU look best in.

TX_Aggie_Dad · May 2013

so a few years ago I heard a couple of the younger female professionals in our office discussing how some men just should not wear flat front pants. I assumed that was aimed at guys that were overweight but I'd be interested to know the female perspective here on if there are guys that should not wear flat front pants and opt for pleats. Is it simply fat guys should go for pleats?

fitnh · May 2013

I vote flat front.

JennC831 · May 2013

I prefer my husband in flat front pants but here's some info I found on Josbank.com

http://www.josbank.com/menswear/shop/ContentView?storeId=11001&catalogId=10050&contentKey=DRESSPANTS

Pleated dress pants are the classic look. Pleats have a couple benefits, like adding detail to the pants as well as flattering large-built body types. If you have larger legs, carry extra weight in your midsection, or have a broad upper body, pleated pants will help balance out your appearance. They may actually help you look slimmer. One to two pleats will sufficiently capture this effect.

Flat-front pants, on the other hand, are more modern and complement a business casual look. Plain front slacks have no pleats, giving them a slimmer and more tailored appearance. Men with slim-built body types look best in this type of pant.

shellma00 · May 2013

IMO Flat Front looks nicer. I dont personally care for Pleated Pants on men or women.

catrinaHwechanged · May 2013

Always flat!

mulsas · May 2013

While purists still like pleats because they do serve a functional purpose, the trend is definitely towards flat front. Last year I picked up two BB suits (though an online reseller, I would not normally be able to afford their stuff) with flat front pants, and I think they look great. I feel like the key with flat front dress pants is that you have to be reasonably slim/fit to pull them off, otherwise it isn't flattering. But at the same time, they can't be too slim, otherwise it just isn't professional, and everyone will be able to see everything you are carrying in your pockets. There still needs to be some natural drape to them. I think some of the more fashion brand suits look silly, because they come with basically skinny pants. Also, the cut of your dress shirts needs to match the suit. Since flat fronts offer a slimmer profile, it won't look right with a fuller cut shirt.

Power_Man77 · May 2013

I rock the flat front. Honestly, I think the pleats are well suited for the gentlemen that are more than few pounds heavy

This works for me

SLLeask · May 2013

In my humble opinion - Flat fronts. Always. Unless you are over 60 or still living in the 80's. I have never seen pleat fronts looking good on ANY man, fat, thin, muscled, ugly, good looking, actor, model or man in the street. None. Not one....