As more people return to the office, the new work wardrobe has a surprising new element: the suit vest or waistcoat, worn alone with no coordinating blazer or jacket. Think fitted with full coverage, and you have – in the words of one fashion reporter – the new white shirt. An item to wear to work and then out for cocktails, or whatever else you have on your schedule. Our correspondent Jillian Tangen shares her edit of 12 of the top suit vests and waistcoats for women from luxury fashion designers this fall, including boxy and classic cuts, and surprising versions in linen and corduroy.
Suit vests and waistcoats are a new wardrobe staple for women this fall
Once a classic menswear garment, the suit vest – or waistcoat = has emerged as the must-have wardrobe staple for women this fall.
From the runways of Gucci, Saint Laurent and Fendi to the stylish show-goers of Copenhagen Fashion Week, the tailored suit vest trend is everywhere. And why not?
Waistcoats are extremely easy to style. Despite many associating it as a more formal clothing item, tailored vest’s are a versatile addition to any wardrobe. While they can be worn traditionally as part of a three-piece set or with matching trousers, it also works styled as a more casual layering piece. Try styling one over a fine knit, a dress, a white shirt or simply wear it on its own with jeans for a more relaxed look.
Plus depending on the situation, vests can be serious, sexy or even androgenous. Think Annie Hall in the best way possible.
Here’s an edit of 12 of the best options in women’s suit vests and waistcoats, from linen to corduroy, and boxy and fitted silhouettes.
12 top Suit vests and waistcoats for women from luxury fashion designers this fall
1. alex mill
Skip the standard black in favor of this midnight blue linen Mathilde Vest ($145) from Alex Mill.
BUY NOW – $145.
2. gucci
Gucci’s black round front Velvet Waistcoat ($1,005) is a true investment piece that you’ll be able to wear for years to come.
BUY NOW – $1,005.
3. hutch
Think stripes are just for summer? Think again. Pair Hutch’s Classic Tailored Vest ($130) with denim for the ultimate French-inspired look.
BUY NOW – $130.
4. gabriela hearst
Let the gorgeous colors of fall foliage be your fashion inspiration this season with Gabriela Hearst’s yellow corduroy Zelos Vest ($790).
BUY NOW – $790.
5. etro
Etro’s Cropped Paisley Print Vest ($550) will add a playful touch to your fall ensemble.
BUY NOW – $550.
6. anine bing
Fancy a boxier cut? This Anine Bing Tay Wool Vest ($349) draws inspiration from the classic suit jacket.
BUY NOW – $349.
7. ganni
Leave it to Ganni to remix the classic vest with a cool girl twist. The classic silhouette on this Oversized-collar Denim Waistcoat ($228) honors the traditional look, while the oversized collar and diamond buttons give it a fresh touch.
BUY NOW – $228.
8. fortela
Lean into the collegecore vibes with Fortela’s beige and brown checked wool Demi Check-tweed Waistcoat ($443).
BUY NOW – $443.
9. scotch & soda
Wear this linen Scotch & Soda Double-Breasted Vest ($228) cinched closed for a professional office look or open for a relaxed afternoon brunch with the gals.
BUY NOW – $228.
10. dion lee
Dion Lee’s sculptural Lace-up Cotton Vest ($467) ups the sultry factor with gold metallic lace-up eyelets and buckled straps.
BUY NOW – $467.
11. frankie shop
The Frankie Shop’s oversized blazers and tailored jumpsuits are a favorite among fashion insiders. Whether worn with the matching trousers and blazer or paired with jeans, this soft pink Gelso Vest ($235) will make a great addition to your wardrobe.
BUY NOW – $235.
12. maison margiela
Classic but also sexy, Maison Margiela’s Open-Back Halterneck Vest ($775) can be worn with a white shirt or alone for a spin on the classic tuxedo look.
BUY NOW – $775.
Luxury waistcoats are the new essential wardrobe staple for women this Fall
That’s our take on the 12 best waistcoats to buy now and wear forever. Are you in on this trend, readers?