Rivalling seasonless silhouettes such as the oversized blazer and the crisp shirt, the waistcoat has carved itself out as a must-have womenswear tailoring classic.
If its thriving presence among the street style set is anything to go by, the waistcoat spells fresh, off-duty elegance. We’ve seen it slowly creeping into womenswear wardrobes, and has now cemented itself in the timeless capsule wardrobe.
Runways tell a similar tale, with the core piece adorning a number of collections from Tom Ford to Emporio Armani. Tom Ford showcased the waistcoat in a number of looks, from a classic grey pinstripe to a bold purple hue.
The perfectly polished piece is the easy answer to elevate any look. In the summer, we paired it with a floaty midi skirt, and as we move into the colder months, we’ll be styling it with matching suit trousers and a blazer for a sleek all-in-one look, or for a more casual style, our trusty jeans and trainers are the answer.
© Claudio LaveniaAs a three-piece suit
Nothing will make you feel more instantly put-together than a matching three-piece suit. Whether you opt for a plain simple style, or find a set with a print or a bold colour, it’s such a sleek option and oozes elegance. Style it with loafers or pointed heels for office-appropriate, or to give it a more casual feel, opt for a trainer.
© Claudio LaveniaWith a midi-skirt
If you’re not quite ready to stow away all of your skirts, the midi skirt is a great option as we lean into colder weather. Styling your waistcoat with it gives it a more elevated, structured feel. Just add a knee-high boot to finish off your look.
© Kirstin SinclairWith a high-drama blouse
Dispelling the notion that a waistcoat ought only to be worn with a shirt silhouette, this look advocates the whimsical blouse and embraces the resurgence of the much-loved boho trend à la Chloé. Wear with a baggier jean rather than anything slim fitting to really tap into the trend.
© Jeremy MoellerTo elevate your jeans
Jeans are one of the most versatile pieces in any wardrobe. Usually associated with a casual look, that doesn’t have to be the case. To give them an instantly chic uplift, add a crisp, statement shirt and your trusted waistcoat and it gives your jeans a new lease of life. To finish off the look, add a heel and minimal jewellery.
© Edward BerthelotAs a double denim look
When we think of double denim, we tend to think of Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake’s iconic matching looks. However, it’s come a long way since then. Xenia Adonts gives us a lesson in winter whites and how to style a waistcoat in a more relaxed, laidback way. We love the signature gold accents on this Schiaparelli look.
© Edward BerthelotWith a mini skirt
One way to style with a mini skirt is to opt for a waistcoat with a longline hem. This gives the illusion of a longer torso, but also is a quick way to make a mini skirt feel more elevated and dressed up. Styling it with a chunky boot or a knee-high boot allows you to effortlessly transition into the winter months.
