How to Wear a Waistcoat/Vest : Style Inspiration Guide

A man’s wardrobe is not complete without a suit and a waistcoat. Do you have a waistcoat or vest but don’t know how to wear it? This style guide gives you the more insight and the best tips on how to wear a waistcoat. 

You see, I know a few men who keep their waistcoat tucked away deep in their wardrobe – only to be worn to weddings or special events, to them a waistcoat is a scary task, more like an extra baggage.

They’d usually say, “why do I need to wear an extra sleeveless jacket when I can simply wear my two piece suit without it and still look good”, or they’d say, “when it comes to the matter of style, the lesser … the better”.

If only you knew how wearing a waistcoat would add an extra star to your STYLE RATING, plus it can also expand your wardrobe both in size and flexibility. I’m sure after reading this article, you will learn how to wear a waistcoat in a modern and stylish way.

Well, no more beating about the bush, let’s get on to the agenda for today. Shall we?

What is a Waistcoat?

A waistcoat is a fitted little jacket without sleeves or a collar worn over a button-up or dress shirt, and beneath a jacket.

And just in case you don’t know the difference between a waistcoat and a vest, I’ll tell you.

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There is no physical difference!

Surprised, right?

I bet some of you didn’t see that coming. So, a WAISTCOAT is a British pronunciation while VEST is American.

A waistcoat is traditionally a formal piece of clothing worn with a suit, but it can be worn in different other ways. Talk about using one hook to catch many fishes, right?

How to Wear a Waistcoat | 4 Ways

#1. Formal

Formal events such as work, dinners, and parties require you to dress up officially. I suggest you go for a single-breasted waistcoat in a slick fabric. Stick to navy suit or gray suit or an olive green suit to stand out.

#2. Occasion

Weddings, formal dinners, and Sunday church wear are the only times you think it’s appropriate to wear a waistcoat. Well, I agree and disagree! Like I said before, there are other fun ways to wear a waistcoat. For a formal occasion, your three-piece suit is your go-to attire.

#3. Casual

Yeah, this is very possible! But there is a catch, you can’t wear it with any kind of waistcoat. The material/fabric type is the key, so steer clear of formal waistcoats; shiny fabrics and matching colors. Cotton or tweed are the best options, they work best for a casual look.

You don’t have to match the color of your trousers with a waistcoat. It doesn’t mean you should wear it with a pair of joggers; fitted jeans or chinos is the best way to go.

#4. Black Tie

You should already know about this one from all those Oscar awards or Hollywood movies you always watch. You could use a waistcoat for a black tie event, easy and simple…

How to Wear a Waistcoat | Golden Rules

• Please, get a waistcoat that fits properly. Seriously, DO NOT wear a size too small, or a size too big!
• Just stick to natural materials like cotton, wool or linen.
• Button your waistcoat up except the last one. It adds an extra touch of elegance to your look.
• I suggest you try different combinations, don’t be afraid to experiment a little bit – just have fun! But don’t break any fashion rule.
• A U-shaped neck waistcoat can only be worn with a bow tie, or completely tie-less (depending on the occasion).
• Never wear a belt! No jokes, just skip the belt when wearing a 3 piece suit to avoid it looking bulky and crowded. Go for dress pants with side adjusters instead.

Final Thoughts

The waistcoat is one of the most classic and stylish wardrobe staples a classy gentleman can own.  While it can be worn in different ways – either with a suit to add an extra layer of formality or as a centerpiece of your entire outfit, you can never go wrong with it.

So tell me, how have you stylishly worn your waistcoat and if you don’t have one, are you thinking of getting one? Contact us, let us tailor one for you.

Until you hear from me again, continue to do well, live well and dress really well. Be Classy.

Yours in Style,

Kobi O. Mbagwu
Founder, KOBI KOACHMAN

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KOBI KOACHMAN

My name is Kobi O. Mbagwu, a professional image consultant, menswear expert, and entrepreneur who uses fashion to change people’s lives. My personal goal is to help gentlemen dress better, live well, do well and develop a unique personal style that matches their lifestyle and goals. I believe that success can be built through style. I believe that fashion is a tool that can be used to change people’s lives positively. I strongly believe that if you dress well, you look good, and if you look good, you feel good and when you feel good, you worry less, and the less you worry the more you are able to stay motivated and focused on your goals pursuit and by so doing you are able to live a more fulfilling and successful life.

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