You might think that something thick yet sleeveless could only be called upon for some very specific, very strange weather, but there are ways to make sure you’re getting the most out of your purchase. As with any trend, making them work is all in the styling. 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.
Here to save vests across the world from a bleak future at the back of the closet are thirteen outfits featuring every kind of vest that will (hopefully) inspire some creative styling of your own.
Scroll on for style ideas for the season ahead.
The Cropped 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.
Pull & Bear Sleeveless Knitted Vest With Floral Detail In Ecru, $, available at ASOS
Ganni Crystal-Button Ribbed Sleeveless Sweater, $, available at Matches Fashion
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.
Urban Outfitters Archive Stone Button-Up Waistcoat, $, available at Urban Outfitters
Soft Rebels Gemma Cardigan Vest, $, available at Zalando
The Oversized Sweater 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.
COS Cashmere Knitted Vest, $, available at COS
& Other Stories Polo Knit Vest, $, available at & Other Stories
The Waistcoat
The revival of the waistcoat has been a blessing. We love injecting them into casual outfits with denim and t-shirts, donning a matching set or even channelling Annie Hall with a crisp shirt and tie combo.
The Frankie Shop Gelso Tailored Waistcoat, $, available at Matches Fashion
Reformation Devin Vest, $, available at Reformation
Y.A.S Tailored Waistcoat Co-Ord In Sand, $, available at ASOS
Light Before Dark Linen Tailored Waistcoat, $, available at Urban Outfitters
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.
The Frankie Shop Aspen Belted Down Gilet, $, available at Matches Fashion
Native Youth Padded Gilet Vest In Navy, $, available at ASOS
Topshop Boxy Quilted Liner Gilet In Black, $, available at ASOS
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
The 8 Best TikTok Fashion Creators To Follow In 20