We love a vest. Whether it’s a structured waistcoat or a cosy oversized knit, they never fail to complete any outfit — and keep us comfy. But with their versatility can also come confusion.
You might think that something thick yet sleeveless could only be called upon for some very specific in-between weather, but there are ways to make sure you’re getting the most out of your purchase. After all, being able to get creative with outfits means the pieces in our wardrobes get maximum wear, ensuring we’re not contributing to overconsumption. But sometimes we get stumped. And when the outfit block comes around, the only course of action to take is to look at our social feeds for the right inspiration to reignite the spark. This season vest styles are trending in more varieties than ever, from the cowboycore-approved denim waistcoat to the classic sweater vest.
Here to guide your sleeveless endeavours are seven kinds of vests you’ll be able to throw on and go this spring — along with expert styling tips from creators on the ‘gram.
Scroll on for vest style ideas for the season ahead.
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The Tailored Waistcoat
The revival of the waistcoat has been a blessing. We love injecting them into casual outfits with denim and tees, donning a matching set or even channelling the menswear-inspired trend with a crisp shirt and tie combo.
Levi’s Jaylah Lightweight Vest, $, available at Levi’s
The Frankie Shop Gelso Grain De Poudre And Satin Vest, $, available at Net-A-Porter
Mango Suit Waistcoat With Buttons, $, available at Mango
The Cropped Sweater Vest
These vests are a breeze to style. Simply wear it on its own as a cosy top or layer over a balloon-sleeve blouse when the occasion arises.
Ganni Brown Cotton Rope Short Vest, $, available at Ganni
iets frans Lara V-Front Top, $, available at Urban Outfitters
Arket Sleeveless Top, $, available at Arket
The linen waistcoat
A linen waistcoat gives you the best of both worlds for the warmer months: a tailored look and weather-appropriate feel. Pair with jeans or midi skirts, layer over dresses or tees, and don’t forget to pack for your next sunny holiday.
Gap Lina Linen Vest, $, available at Gap
Arkitaip The Bobby Linen Vest, $, available at Arkitaip
Reformation Aspen Linen Top, $, available at Reformation
The Button-Up Knit Vest
Layering is key with this style. Try wearing over a basic T-shirt and under a blazer or trench coat for a more polished feel.
Jigsaw Cotton Blend Waistcoat, $, available at Jigsaw
American Vintage Women’s Cardigan Vitow, $, available at American Vintage
Topshop Knitted Boucle V-neck Vest, $, available at ASOS
The Oversized Vest
If you’re over wearing your vest as a mini dress, throw it over a button-down shirt or a shirt-style maxi dress to make it office-appropriate.
Barbour Falmouth V-neck Sweater Vest, $, available at Barbour
Everlane The TENCEL™ Sleeveless Blazer, $, available at Everlane
Percy Langley Relaxed Knitted Waistcoat, $, available at Percy Langley
The Printed Vest
Prints have been shining this year, from the leopard print renaissance, to the Western fashion revival. A printed vest can bring any outfit from drab to fab.
Damson Madder Tilly Gilet, $, available at Damson Madder
Glassworks Graphic Floral Sweater Vest, $, available at Glassworks
Pilcro Crew Neck Sweater Vest, $, available at Anthropologie
The Utility Vest
Quilted and puffy, you’d think these vests would be hard to style. But what makes them pop is when they’re paired with loose knitwear and flowy silhouettes — anything too structured can make them look boxy.
Carhartt Skyler Vest, $, available at Carhartt
Zara Balloon Waistcoat Top, $, available at Zara
Nigel Preston Waistcoat Utility Top, $, available at Free People
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