The pinstripe suit is making a comeback. And not in the same ways as it has in the past. The pinstripe suit still evokes a feeling of power and structure while being diverse in its many designs. However, newer iterations are a bit more fluid with expressions. It’s traditional and it’s modern. The pinstripe suit has made its mark all across history.

History of the Pinstripe Suit 

Pin-stripe. What is it? A thinly striped fabric, most often seen in dark navy or black with a lighter contrasting color. But this suit has an extensive amount of history for what it is. There is much speculation on how it began in the early 19th century. Some stories say it evolved from British Boaters’ striped jackets, and its significance evolved when it became more widely worn by bankers in London. From there, it became one of the most influential styles of menswear and would later define historical figures such as Al Capone into fashion icons.

The pinstripe suit in the modern-age

The pinstripe suit experienced significant dormancy in the professional world in the past twenty years. However, its comeback has been seen more by influential fashion designers and subsequently, celebrities. Just take a look at Cynthia Erivo’s double-breasted blazer Dolce & Gabbana suit at the 2025 NAACP image awards. (Incredibly styled, if we do so say, with gorgeous brooches). Or Kerry Washington’s pinstripe skirt suit at New York fashion week for 2025. What used to be a staple for lawyers in the 90s has transitioned into something that is both a powerhouse statement and also takes on a new twist. The pinstripe is a significant design and one that only has more room to grow.

How you should wear a pinstripe suit

Anyone looks fantastic in a pinstripe suit. The design is what matters. Depending on your frame, perhaps a double-breasted may evoke a stronger sense of power. Color-wise, opting for darker, cooler colors such as blues and greens evoke a more serious nature, whereas oranges and pinks (surprise, surprise) tend to be more playful. (Just take a look at some of these designs we made for Seattle Seahawks player, Olu Oluwatimi). 

The lucky part about the pinstripe suit is that it can be styled in vastly different ways, according to an individual’s style. For shoes, there is no standard shoe that is required. Think of leather shoes, boots, cowboy boots, or even platform shoes. A silver watch looks wonderfully paired with a darker color suit. Consider a neck-tie to draw in more European-fashion influences.

A complementary or contrasting floral tie is an easy accent for a bolder suit. The pinstripe suit can even be worn with separate pieces. Pinstripe sport coats can be worn over darker jeans or pinstripe pants worn with cashmere sweaters. How the pinstripe suit makes a comeback for the modern age is all about ensuring it fits into your overall wardrobe.

Design your own pinstripe suit

If you’re looking to begin your suiting journey, our designers will work with you 1-on-1 to find exactly what you’re looking for. Book a consultation for a made-to-measure suit at Sew Generously or peruse our fabric library from UK and Italian mills at our Seattle showroom. The process begins first with finding the perfect fabric for you.