Ways to Wear the Waistcoat
Content editor
Dulcie Emerson
How to style a tailored waistcoat
Tracing its roots from traditional menswear, the classic combination of a waistcoat with pleated suit trousers still resonates today. A grey double-breasted waistcoat walks the line between corporate chic and smart-casual fashion, making it ideal for work or play. Pair a sleek cropped waistcoat like this one with the matching high-waisted trousers à la Vanessa Rose Blair (@vanessaroseblair) for dining out, or try slipping over a crisp white shirt for a polished look to turn heads in the office. Minimalist silver jewellery and a structured clutch bag complete the outfit.
“My dinner LOOK for a night of good food and good company” Vanessa Rose Blair
What to wear with a denim waistcoat
Making a subtle nod to noughties fashion yet with a relaxed silhouette that screams 2024, our blue denim three-piece suit offers a more casual take on the tailored look. As seen on M&S Insider Zarah Hameed (@marksandspencer_zarah), it is perfect as a statement outfit or worn as separates for maximum cost-per-wear value. Crafted from lightweight chambray denim fabric made with linen and responsibly sourced cotton, the suit is also lined in recycled polyester for a refined finish. Style with a contrasting tote bag and simple black leather ballet pumps to add to Zarah's look.
“Still CRUSHING over what I wore to present our denim Live show” Zarah Hameed
Dress up a waistcoat for evening
Don't keep your waistcoat solely for daywear; they look just as chic elevated for evening. Instagram star Hayley Karseras (@ladyofthemanor77) opts for a sleek black velvet waistcoat for special occasions, however you could also try Albaray's longline satin waistcoat or French Connection's cream halterneck waistcoat for an equally impactful choice. Reach for high-waisted trousers with a wide or straight-cut leg to balance proportions – Hayley rates our satin cargo trousers worn with strappy heels for an unexpected twist. Heading out on the town? Up the glam factor with sequinned accessories, a diamanté bracelet and a pair of oversized sunglasses to make the most of sundowners once the evenings lighten.
“The COMBINATION of satin cargos, velvet waistcoat and sequin blazer is the perfect festive look” Hayley Karseras
How to layer a waistcoat on cooler days
M&S Insider Lisa Smith (@marksandspencerireland_lisa) knows a thing or two about how to chill-proof a waistcoat for the blustery Irish weather. Here, she's layered a single-breasted waistcoat over a white crew-neck T-shirt for added warmth, and completed the look with wide-leg jeans, a trusty trench coat and ankle boots. Look for waistcoats in insulating natural fibres such as silk and wool if you're looking for year-round wearability and size up to allow room for a layer underneath. The current trend for women's waistcoats favours boxy silhouettes over the overly form-fitting, after all.
“A BEIGE waistcoat is a versatile piece to add to your spring wardrobe” Lisa Smith
Published 4.2.2024