Traveling for business or a special event can be stressful. You have to worry about flights, hotels, and meetings. Consequently, the last thing you need is a wrinkled suit. This guide will show you exactly how to fold a suit jacket for travel. Following these simple steps ensures you arrive looking sharp and professional, without any last-minute panic.
Why Proper Folding Matters for Your Suit
You might be tempted to just lay your jacket flat in your suitcase. However, this is often a recipe for disaster. Proper folding does more than just prevent wrinkles.
- It saves space: A correctly folded jacket is compact. This leaves more room for other essentials in your luggage.
- It protects the fabric: Folding protects the outer layer and the delicate shoulder structure. Therefore, your suit lasts longer.
- It maintains the shape: The goal is to preserve the jacket’s tailored lines. A good fold supports the lapels and shoulders, keeping them crisp.
Before You Start: Preparing Your Jacket
Before you even begin to fold, a little preparation goes a long way. These quick steps will make the process smoother and more effective.
First, empty all the pockets. Items like keys or wallets can create ugly bulges and strain the seams. Next, give the jacket a quick brush to remove any lint or dust. Finally, find a large, clean, and flat surface, like a bed or a table. This will give you plenty of room to work.
The Best Method: How to Fold a Suit Jacket for Travel (The Inside-Out Roll)
This method is a favorite among frequent travelers because it works wonders. It protects the outside of the jacket and uses the lining to shield it from wrinkles. Let’s break it down.
Step 1: The Shoulder Pop
Hold the jacket in front of you, with the collar facing up. Then, pop one shoulder inside-out. You are essentially turning one half of the jacket inside-out, but not the sleeve.
Step 2: The Shoulder Tuck
Now, take the other shoulder (the one that is still right-side-out) and tuck it into the inside-out shoulder. The lining of both shoulders should now be touching. This clever move aligns the jacket perfectly and protects the exterior fabric.
Step 3: The Fold and Roll
Lay the neatly folded jacket on your flat surface. You should see that the lapels are perfectly aligned. Next, smooth out any wrinkles with your hand. Fold the jacket in half lengthwise. Finally, you can either fold it in half again from top to bottom or loosely roll it to create a compact bundle. The roll is often better for preventing a hard crease.
Quick Tips for Unpacking Your Suit
Your job isn’t done once you’ve packed. What you do upon arrival is just as important for a wrinkle-free look.
- Hang It Immediately: As soon as you get to your hotel, take the jacket out of your suitcase. Place it on a proper hanger to let gravity help release any minor creases.
- Use Steam: You don’t need an iron. Simply hang the jacket in the bathroom while you take a hot shower. The steam is a gentle and effective way to relax the fabric and smooth out wrinkles.
- Allow Time to Rest: If possible, unpack your suit a few hours before you need to wear it. This gives the fabric time to breathe and return to its natural shape.
By learning how to fold a suit jacket for travel, you can step off the plane with confidence. A well-kept suit says a lot about you, and now you have the skills to make a great impression, no matter where your travels take you.
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