Versatile Vests

Think about vests, and various personas come to mind: the gun-slinging cowboy, the Harley Davidson rider, the shirtless rockstar, the avid outdoorsman, a sharp-dressed businessman or your great aunt at Christmas.

Vests are iconic, and such a statement piece does not stem from humble beginnings. The first noted and notable vest wearer was King Charles II of England in the 17th century. 

What we now know as the vest was then referred to as the waistcoat. Royalty wore vests as a sign of status. Upper-crust folks liked them because when buttoned, they gave the appearance of broader chests and thinner waists.

Beginning in the 19th century, vests were largely reserved for formal occasions or as business attire. Men would wear them as part of suit ensembles, adding a bit of flair or a pop of color.

Photos courtesy of Overland and H&M. Rib knit holiday sweater vest from H&M

As men were donning their vests while lighting cigars in speakeasies, the women of the 1920s were experimenting with gender-bending fashion. The Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City notes that many women began wearing vests and trousers in the early 1920s.

In the same decade, Irving Schott designed the first leather biker jacket which would evolve to become the biker vest. The style wouldn’t reach its full potential until the 1960s when bikers started wearing “cuts” — cut-off vests typically made of leather or denim.

Rockstars and shunners of gender-specific clothing, including Harry Styles, Prince and Mick Jagger, took to wearing vests without shirts.

Today, vests are often worn as an accent piece, almost like an accessory or as a means of layering.

↘ Short, fitted twill vest from H&M is lined and features a low-cut, square neckline, buttons in the front and shaping seams at front and back. It makes for a boldly elegant look even when paired with baggy jeans. Photos courtesy of Overland and H&M

“The resurgence of vests, particularly in the South during winter, can be attributed to their remarkable versatility and adaptability to varying weather conditions,” said Stacey Getman, apparel stylist at Hearth & Soul. “With its role as a go-to layering item, the vest shines as a must-have addition for the winter season.”

Gerry Phipps, founder and owner of The Fix Thrift Shop, agreed, saying that shoppers look for vests in the fall and winter when Floridians begin to add layers.

And, the holidays bring occasions for vest wearing. Phipps said even a simple thrifted vest has potential.

“Doll it up, add some bling and celebrate the season,” she said.

For a timeless take, Getman suggests styling a vest with a smart collared shirt and trousers or a skirt. Think polished, preppy and professional. For a more laid-back look, let the vest shine when paired with a simple tank and a fitted pair of  jeans.

“A vest can be worn in many different ways to complement an outfit,” Getman said. “It is an essential wardrobe piece that can be effortlessly integrated into diverse outfits, making it suitable for both corporate settings and evenings out. The ability to effortlessly transition from professional to chic is a key factor driving the vest’s popularity.”

A vest can be a statement piece in a bright color or bold pattern, or it can be a subtle extension of an outfit.

“Vests have a lot of potential; style them with items that reveal your ideas and passions, or keep it simple and clean depending on the occasion,” Phipps advised.

For both men and women, the sweater vest becomes a practical option when the weather turns chilly. Layer it over a button-down for a classic, clean look, or do the unexpected and pair it with leather pants or a satin skirt.

A buttoned vest with fitted linen trousers is a look that has long been popular. Utility vests paired with cargo pants provide plenty of pockets and that edgy streetwear style we can’t get enough of.

Remember, vests are best when worn with confidence. Dig out that denim vest you’ve had since the ’90s, and give it new life.