Are you preparing your luggage and planning to bring your suit jacket, whether for a business trip or a fancy night out? The problem is you don’t know how to fold a suit jacket properly. This how-to guide is for you! You’ll discover the three main ways to fold a suit jacket to avoid wrinkles.
- The Jacket Roll
- The Inside-Out Fold
- The Shirt-Style Fold
Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to know how to adapt based on your situation. For these techniques, ensure you have a flat surface available; this will help you properly fold.
1. Best Way: Jacket Roll
The most efficient way to preserve a suit jacket without compromising the garment is to not fold it at all! Rolling it is the best method for keeping it intact, even though it might not be the most space-efficient option in your luggage. You can optimize this by rolling other clothes with your jacket (shirts, socks, polos, etc.).
First Step: Pop one of the shoulders inside out and reverse half of the jacket.
Second Step: Take the other shoulder and tuck it into the reversed shoulder. This protects the outer fabric and sleeves while folding your jacket in half lengthwise. Ensure the bottom of your jacket is positioned correctly to avoid creasing.
Third Step: Lay your suit on a flat surface (like a bed or table) and start rolling from the collar of the suit jacket. Avoid applying too much pressure when rolling to prevent creating creases. Your jacket will then be ready to pack in your bag!
2. Cleanest Fold: Inside-Out Fold
If you must fold your suit jacket, you’ll want to preserve it from wrinkles by doing it correctly. The same principles as the roll apply here to ensure the outer fabric is protected.
First Step: Similar to the roll, turn one of the shoulders inside out. You can also pop both shoulders, but this might take up extra space without providing significant additional protection for the fabric.
Second Step: If you’ve popped only one shoulder, tuck the other into it, which helps you fold it in half. Keep the sleeves straight and the bottom well arranged. This can be done on a flat surface. If both shoulders are reversed, simply fold it in half.
Third Step: Place your jacket on the flat surface and fold it into thirds, starting from the collar to protect it as well. The result should resemble a square.
3. Fast Way: Shirt-Style Fold
The shirt-style fold is a common method for folding various-sleeved garments. While it’s not the most recommended option for a suit jacket, it can still be effective and is probably the fastest if you’re in a rush or not accustomed to the previous two methods.
First Step: Lay your jacket on a flat surface with the back facing you. Fold the sleeves in, aligning them with the middle seam of the back of the jacket. This should create a proper rectangular shape.
Tip: To make this easier and maintain the jacket’s structure, button it up beforehand.
Second Step: Grab the bottom edge of the jacket and fold it up to the collar, then turn it over and place it in your suitcase.
Remember to avoid this option if possible, as it may create creases in the fabric—especially if you’re packing it tightly in a full suitcase or bag.
General Tips About Transporting Suit Jackets
- Try placing the jacket inside a dry-cleaning bag before folding it; this can enhance protection while in your bag.
- The best-case scenario for transporting a suit jacket is using a hanger with a complete garment bag. This ensures that you completely avoid folding it and protects the fabric from external elements.
- Always turn the jacket inside out to keep the lining facing outside when not using a suit bag. This will prevent the outer fabric from getting scratched, which could require repairs.
You’ve now learned how to properly fold your suit jacket to prepare your luggage for travel. Choose the method that suits you best, but remember to minimize folding whenever possible.
The suit jacket is probably not the only piece of clothing you’ll bring with you, right? Check out our complete guide on how to prepare your luggage efficiently for perfect packing techniques!
