13 Vest Outfits to Inspire Your Wardrobe

Vests have entered the fashion group chat in a major way. Whether as standalone tops, base layers, or part of a summer suit, this trend continues to stick around to become — dare we say — a wardrobe essential. It comes in myriad forms — from the wool or linen blend waistcoat to the oversized utility version to an open-quilted version — making it a breeze to wear and too stylish to dub a short-lived trend.

Kaia Gerber and Kendall Jenner are just a couple of the "It girls" who have stepped out in the vest-as-top trend, along with every fashion influencer from New York to Milan. Today, it's offered everywhere, including Coperni, Stella McCartney, Free People, and Aritzia. Hop on board, folks, because the vest has become a foundational part of dressing. So prepare to get inspired and invest in this trend-turned-closet-essential.  

Below, we share 13 vest outfits to put on rotation.

Denim 

Just like a good pair of jeans, a cropped denim vest (see: Madewell Caterina Denim Cropped Vest is one of those items that can go with everything. Pair it with baggy denim for the perfect top to a Canadian tuxedo, or switch it up with almost any material and style, from cargo maxiskirts to trousers and beyond. It can be worn as an open-outfit topper or alone for a streamlined street-style vibe.

LBV

Rather than reach for your classic LBD, why not try black separates instead? This vest and pleated skirt combo wears well from day to night. Best of all, it can be dressed up or down by simply swapping out your footwear.

Schoolcore

A classic way to wear a vest is with a shirt, tie, and pleated skirt. It's giving major preppy-meets-punk. Keep it sophisticated with the three-piece layered suit option (tie included) by wearing it with brogues, ballet flats, pumps, or add some edge with combat boots and chain accessories. 

Sweater

You can't read a vest story without seeing at least one sweater vest (this one included). Consider a mini cropped style layered over an oversized dress shirt or a nap-style dress. It acts as a belt, giving shape to any shapeless fabric and turns out to be totally chic.

Dyed Leather

A leather trench coat is a statement all on its own, but when paired with a matching leather vest, it is next-level. While you can't go wrong with a timeless black color palette, we're partial to this burgundy color hue, which is perfect for fall.

Pinstriped

Don't be afraid of the full commitment to a pinstripe vest and trousers. Playful accessories like '90s shield shades, a chain link belt, and pumps turn this office attire into a cool girl's dream. 

Utility 

As with cargo pants, utility vests with pockets are a genderless streetwear staple. Even though it was once made for function (thanks to its many pockets), this stylish piece is equal parts fashion. Bonus points if you can score a vintage Carhartt version, perfectly distressed due to a construction worker's past work or a fisherman's past life. Keep the bagginess going with a big pair of '90s denim or trousers, or add some flounce with a loose blouse or dress. 

Double-Breasted

When you make a double-breasted oversized suit summer-appropriate, you get a double-breasted vest with culottes. This chic ensemble's relaxed fit calls for strappy, sexy heels and a fitted tank or tee underneath to balance the flowing fabric.

Oversized Leather Gilet

Nothing feels more rock 'n' roll than a genuine leather oversized open outfit topper. It gives any blouse, tee, or blazer (as shown here) major edge. It's like a cool leather jacket with a Western nod. Wear with flare pants, baggy denim, or trousers for a not-so-buttoned-up pants moment. 

Linen Waistcoat

The perfect vest-as-a-top is tailored, typically neutral, and provides full coverage all around. It's an outfit that doesn't call for many accessories because it gives quiet luxury at its finest. This style is more about fabric and fit over pairings. Look for styles in cotton, wool, and linen.

Bold Hue

Even though vests are a minimalist's dream, they don't always have to come in a neutral. Bold, saturated hues are a fun way to make this a style statement rather than understated luxury. A bold color vest paired with a matching bottom makes for the perfect summer work outfit.

Trucker

A trucker vest is basically a big, baggy denim vest with the sleeves cut off. It's genderless but gives any outfit a hint of sass. Even though it's super casual — whether a hoodie, leggings, or printed trousers — it fashion-izes any outfit.

Summer Suit

The suit of summer most definitely comes in the form of an easy vest and matching pants in a lightweight cotton material. It's a one-and-done tailored outfit that feels polished and comfortable. Dare to show a bit of skin and play with buttons with just one top closure. Then, stay comfy with a pair of chunky sandals, throw on some cool shades, and call it a day.

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