*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. Read my disclaimer for more info.
I can’t scroll through my social feeds without seeing a well-dressed woman wearing a waistcoat. The waistcoat has been having a moment lately.
The suit vest first appeared in the 1970s as part of women’s uniforms. It resurfaced again in the 90’s and is now seen on models, celebs, and fashionable women.
The waistcoat is an androgynous piece. A bit masculine, a little bit bohemian, it is a great piece for any time of the year.
Gaining momentum over the last few seasons, the sleeveless garment has been reimagined for in chic, flattering silhouettes, cementing any look to polished perfection.
What To Wear With A Vest
Styling-wise, it’s the perfect mate for a masterfully minimalist or statement maximalist outfit. Depending on your personal style, the vest can be layered over a white t-shirt and jeans for an interesting outfit.
The transitional outerwear option is a true layering essential, and can be worn as part of a three-piece suit, and finished with sneakers for a cool, easy vibe.
Scroll below for 9 ways on what to wear with a vest. Find inspo on how to wear the timeless piece for any season.
1. Trousers
When it comes to a smart casual look for the springtime, a white vest whispers “chic” no matter which way its worn.
For a classic look that defies trends and seasons, pair with trousers that are of the same color palette. These Aritzia trousers and the matching Aritzia vest on light birch are a dream of a set.
The muted color and elongated silhouette of this look instantly draws you in and is the perfect outfit for various occasions.
Lean into the neutral color palette, and pair it with a white heels and a tan structured tote.
When the weather is warm one day and cool the next, a transitional outerwear option is a true layering essential, especially when styled with a vest that functions as an extra layer.
Complete the look with a pair of black pants and white sneakers. Mixing and matching different shades looks just as good.
Although vests are normally considered polished pieces, this outfit proves that you can dress them down with sneakers.
2. Jeans
White jeans outfits always exudes a chic look and provide the best blank canvas to build an aesthetically pleasing outfit.
If it’s warm enough, a vest can just be a top. Keep it casual but polished with a pair of straight-leg jeans and sandals.
When summer ends, you’ll still want to reach for a gray vest. In terms of style, there is no needs for a full suit – just grab a pair of jeans for those cool summer nights.
A gray suit vest feels especially fresh when paired with crisp blue denim and an oversized blazer.
3. Shorts
Proof that you can make a pair of comfortable shorts look dressed-up with a casual vest.
Oftentimes, it’s the wardrobe basics that are the best investments and get the most wear. Linen shorts are the anti-loungewear trend that will always be a timeless summer staple.
We’re not here to talk about the suit vest just as a standalone item.
It reaches its full polished potential when styled as a matching set. It is one of my favorite ways to style the vest.
The twosome is the embodiment of summer-in-the-city style, requiring just a simple black sandal and festive raffia tote to complete the look.
4. Skirts
The luxurious fabric of the satin skirt works seamlessly with the structured vest to give a luxe look. The suit vest also has an appealingly practical element.
The vest is one of the most versatile pieces you can purchase: it can be either androgynous or sexy depending of the season and your personal style.
As we await summer’s much-anticipated arrival, refresh the contents of your closet now, starting with white linen vests.
For a healthy balance of ease and drama, consider a longline linen vest which creates a sense of proportion when paired with a straight maxi skirt.
Paired with a linen vest, the maxi skirt in a neutral shade becomes a sartorial hero for moments when you’re in need of an elegantly polished ensemble and an extremely stylish outfit.
Styling-wise, the white maxi skirt is the ultimate blank canvas, adding an element of effortlessness and bohemian charm to any outfit in mind.
