The resurgence of suit vests, once deemed old-fashioned, is gaining notable traction. While this traditional attire had waned in popularity over recent decades, it never truly lost its timeless appeal. Fortunately, a growing number of men are embracing the sophistication inherent in this classic style.
It’s the perfect moment to rekindle your admiration for the timeless three-piece suit! Adding a suit vest to your wardrobe is effortlessly achievable and will instantly rejuvenate your appearance. Let’s explore with Lana Tailor How to Properly Fit and Wear a Suit Vest in the following article.
What Defines a Vest?
A vest refers to a sleeveless garment that is typically worn over a shirt. You might also encounter the term “waistcoat” used interchangeably. Vests come in various styles and are prevalent in both men’s and women’s fashion. In men’s fashion, vests commonly serve as the third component of a three-piece suit, distinguishing it from a two-piece ensemble.
Originally, “vest” derived from the French word “veste,” which referred to a jacket or sport coat. Nowadays, the French have adopted the term “gilet” for what is known in English as a vest or waistcoat. The origin of the term can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire, where the Turks referred to this type of garment as “yalek.” This reveals the extensive and rich history behind this men’s fashion style.
Vest Compared to Waistcoat
What distinguishes a vest from a waistcoat, then? Although the terms are often used synonymously, there are subtle distinctions between them.
As mentioned, a vest refers to any sleeveless garment worn over another piece of clothing on the torso. Vests are versatile and can range from casual to formal. They can be crafted from various materials, including knitted versions like sweater vests, and some are even designed for outerwear in cooler temperatures.
Conversely, a waistcoat is typically part of a formal ensemble, worn with a jacket and tie. It tends to be more structured, often featuring a lower cut in the front and fewer buttons compared to a vest, which might extend higher up the torso with more buttons.
In the context of men’s fashion, while you can refer to a waistcoat as a vest, the reverse isn’t always true. Thus, all waistcoats fall under the broader category of vests, but not all vests qualify as waistcoats.
Single-Button Vest
The single-breasted vest is a prevalent style, typically featuring between 3 to 6 buttons. Among these options, the five-button single-breasted vest is the most traditional choice.
A general guideline is to ensure your vest has at least one more button than your suit jacket. For instance, if you’re wearing a three-button suit jacket, opt for a vest with at least four buttons.
Double-Breasted Waistcoat
The double-breasted vest, although less prevalent, exudes a heightened formality compared to its single-breasted counterpart. Typically adorned with 4 to 8 buttons, the six-button style is the most frequently encountered.
It’s customary for double-breasted vests to be fully buttoned, maintaining a polished appearance. Often distinguished by peaked lapels, they exude sophistication and elevate the overall style quotient.
How to Ensure a Proper Fit for Your Suit Vest
Proper fit is essential for both comfort and style when it comes to clothing. Many men complain about discomfort when wearing suits, often attributing it to the nature of the attire itself. However, the real culprit is usually an ill-fitting suit.
A suit vest, along with the entire ensemble, should feel so comfortable that you almost forget you’re wearing it. A well-fitted suit not only enhances comfort but also leaves a positive impression. It projects a sense of organization and refinement, contributing to a professional appearance.
Conversely, an oversized suit can give off a disheveled and aged appearance. Conversely, a tight suit may create the impression of weight gain or make it seem like you’re wearing someone else’s clothes.