The Summer Edit
Style advice
The art of wearing a vest
There are numerous examples of ideal autumn attire, and a quilted waistcoat is one of them.
It's remarkably versatile and suitable for a range of occasions, whether you're spending time with your partner, at work, or enjoying some alone time. For many, a quilted waistcoat might be outside their comfort zone and something they've never considered trying. Perhaps that's true for you? Yet, when you spot someone else donning one, you tend to give them a second glance, don't you? Because it looks fantastic!
Text: Emanuel Kristing | Photography: Ion Kombokis Lancing | Published: 2021-10-06
Looking Well-Groomed and Stylish
Being well-groomed and stylish is essential. It can also reflect your confidence. Let's be honest, there are occasions where you really don't want to make a fashion faux pas. For instance, being inappropriately dressed could be the deciding factor in whether or not you receive a job offer. Turning up for an interview in a tailored shirt paired with a blazer, having paid special attention to the cut and fit, will undoubtedly earn you extra points! Meeting your in-laws for the first time? You certainly don't want to give the impression of being a dishevelled chap, do you? You want to show that you look good and are stylish... that you're comfortable in your own skin without appearing too arrogant. The French have a perfect term for this: chef d'oeuvre. You want to, with exuberant energy, demonstrate that you are a walking masterpiece!
Why a Waistcoat Could Be Perfect for You
There are numerous reasons why a waistcoat could be ideal for you. It's the perfect garment for both smart and casual looks. It's lightweight yet keeps you warm and allows free movement of your arms. When the weather is unpredictable, a waistcoat is the ideal choice. It also accentuates your physique, enhancing the V-shape of your upper body. Not someone who frequents the gym much? Don't fret. As long as you don't choose a waistcoat that's too large, your look will be effortlessly stylish and masculine. Heading out on a warm spring evening? Consider it a fantastic opportunity to wear something lighter than a jacket. That said, a waistcoat is equally ideal for autumn. It shields your chest from chilly winds. Don't hesitate to wear it under a coat on frosty winter nights either. And, just like the options for wearing a casual denim shirt instead of the classic linen, there are numerous ways to wear a waistcoat. To assist you, we present three variations below on how to style the look. We hope you'll discover just how luxurious a waistcoat can be!
For the Well-Dressed
If you wish to wear a waistcoat to the office, a more formal design is necessary. We recommend wearing it under a blazer. Choose a colour in a similar shade to the blazer. This way, the contrast won't be too stark. You can, of course, add other accessories to your ensemble, as they always add the finishing touch to your look. A silk scarf, for instance, would elevate it to new heights. And, as always with a formal look, selecting the right size is crucial. Ensure you don't choose a waistcoat that's too large, as you don't want to appear as if you're wearing a life jacket. Too small is also a poor choice, as it would restrict your movement and make breathing difficult. You want your waistcoat to fit as perfectly as your favourite white twill shirt. Top it off with a paisley bow tie for the ultimate look.
The Carefree Look
Wearing a waistcoat needn't be demanding. Let it instead reflect your confident, carefree attitude. If your waistcoat has buttons, don't hesitate to leave one or two undone. If it has a zip, we suggest not fastening it all the way. You can also wear your waistcoat completely unzipped over an Oxford shirt or a flannel shirt in a matching colour. When it comes to trousers, excellent choices include loose-fitting chinos, dark wash jeans, or even a pair of wool trousers. You deserve to be comfortable! You might shy away from a more daring colour, but we encourage you to be bold! By selecting other items in subtle hues, you can tone it down and achieve the perfect balance. One way to do that is by pairing your waistcoat with blue jeans and a merino wool jumper. Add a wool scarf to elevate the look to entirely new heights. Because a wool scarf isn't just stylish; it also keeps you warm on crisp autumn days and evenings. Trust us on this! You might shy away from a more daring colour, but we encourage you to be brave! By choosing other items in subtle colours, you can tone it down and achieve the perfect balance. One way to do that is matching your vest with a pair of blue jeans and a merino wool sweater. Add a wool scarf to boost the look to entirely new heights. Because, a wool scarf is not just stylish. It also keeps you warm on chilly fall days and evenings. You can trust us on this!
The Layered Look
Nothing beats the layered look. What do we mean by that? Layering is a way to stay warm and achieve impeccable style. By wearing multiple layers, your look becomes highly versatile! And as the weather turns colder, you'll remain warm without needing to don your bulkiest coat. In other words, just because it gets cold doesn't mean you have to compromise on style. There are ways to dress elegantly, even when the temperature dips below freezing. The solution? A waistcoat, of course! A waistcoat looks splendid worn with a white, casual shirt and a beige cashmere jumper or a dark turtleneck. But the pièce de résistance will be your slightly snug waistcoat in a darker shade. It might be wise to opt for a thinner waistcoat, so you don't overheat. Or, why not go all out with a reversible outer waistcoat? Generally, though, a thinner waistcoat will allow you to throw on a coat with ease.
We recommend going for three layers. How about a ribbed cardigan in pima cotton, or a crisp turtleneck matched with a thinner waistcoat, topped off with a double-breasted blazer? Don't just settle for being warm when you can also be stylish! Ensuring you feel stylish is the whole point of this article. We aimed to inspire you by showcasing how versatile and perfect a waistcoat is with everything from a brown corduroy shirt to a cotton polo shirt! We hope you'll want to incorporate a waistcoat into your everyday look. Regardless of the challenges you face, tasks you need to complete, or goals you must achieve... a waistcoat is the perfect choice.
