Types of Mens Waistcoats for Trendy Fashion

Numerous designers across centuries have drawn inspiration from the classic nature of waistcoats. This has led to this quintessential garment in evolving different cuts, styles, and designs whether you wish to stand out or blend in on various occasions.

What is a waistcoat?

A waistcoat is an apparel worn over the upper body. It is usually sleeveless and serves as a pivotal part of a stylish gentleman’s formal attire. In formal senses, it accompanies and elevates the combination of a dress shirt, formal trousers, and dress shoes. You can wear a waistcoat over a dress shirt and fasten it with a clasp or buttons.

History Of Waistcoat

English King Charles II Stuart introduced the quintessential waistcoat to his subjects and couriers after hearing about it from his Persian ambassadors. The garment was of French origin and was subsequently introduced to England in 1666 in opposition to French fashion. The historic waistcoat was a knee-length jacket used by nobles, usually worn together with trousers and an overcoat of equal length. The suit formed an ensemble that would later evolve into the current three-piece suit.

Types Of Waistcoats According to style:

1. Single-breasted waistcoat

They are designed with five buttons, however, when you go bespoke, you can have anything from three to seven buttons. Generally, the more buttons you have on your waistcoat, the higher it will fasten on your chest. This is so that the buttons are evenly spaced without being too close or too far from each other. The bottom of the waistcoat is usually pointed, rather than straight, which has a flattering torso-lengthening effect. Single-breasted waistcoats have a single row of buttons in the front. They are more modern compared to double-breasted vests.

Most Popular Single-breasted Waistcoat For Men

2. Double-breasted waistcoat

A double-breasted waistcoat induces a formal feel compared to its single-breasted counterpart. This is the reason why you won’t find a double-breasted waistcoat in casual tweed fabric. The double layering offered by a double-breasted waistcoat provides extra warmth making it well suited for winter months. Usually, double-breasted waistcoats feature a 6×3 button fasting but you can also opt for an 8×4 or 10×5 button fastening while going bespoke. You can choose a double-breasted waistcoat with a notched or peaked lapel for greater spunk. The ones with a shawl lapel look best with a tuxedo. Just like its single-breasted peer, the double-breasted coat would fasten higher on your chest if it has more rows of buttons. Typically, they have a straight bottom in contrast to a pointed one to render a smart look by avoiding showing any shirt. As a rule of thumb, you should never wear a double-breasted waistcoat with a double-breasted suit.

Top Trending Double-breasted Waistcoat For Men

3. Classic waistcoat

Is the basic waistcoat with 6-8 buttons and a cinch adjuster at the back to ensure a snug fit. Traditionally, you don’t need to wear a belt with a waistcoat and the cinch of a classic waistcoat ensures that you don’t feel the absence of a belt with its unique fitting. A classic waistcoat comes in both single and double-breasted designs.

4. Horseshoe waistcoat

Considered the most formal option on the list, a horseshoe waistcoat has a deeper opening compared to a suiting waistcoat to offer space for bibs, shirt buds, and pleats while covering the waistband of your trousers. This style might either be single or double-breasted and can even come with a contrasting lapel.

Types of Waistcoats According to the lapel

A waistcoat lapel uses the same cloth as the rest of the waistcoat. However, you might opt for one with a contrasting cloth such as satin or velvet for those special occasions where you wish to make a statement. A small line of hand stitching called stab stitching might be added to the edge of the lapel. This style is common in warm climates where a jacket would make you feel uncomfortable. If you are planning on wearing a flower, then you can nail an extra-smart look by making them with a buttonhole.

1. Notch lapel

Coupled with the evolution of waistcoats, designers have understood the value of a collar and a lapel in helping a waistcoat stand out. A notch lapel can make a traditional waistcoat look more elegant and splendid.

2. Peak lapel

Following the massive popularity of the notch lapel, designers started experimenting with peak lapels on the waistcoat. Adding a peaked lapel can render a more stylish look compared to a waistcoat having a notched lapel.

Types of Waistcoats According to design:

1. Low Cut formal

It has a slightly lower cut which substitutes like a cummerbund so that you can add more flair to your dress shirt be it in the form of bibs, shirt studs, pleats, and so on.

2. Cloth-backed waistcoat

Usually waistcoats feature lining at the back to offer a smooth appearance while reducing bulk. These are also cooler to wear. A cloth-backed waistcoat uses the same cloth on the front and back and looks extremely smart. It serves as the best option for people residing in cold climates since it is warmer compared to one with a lining back.

3. Donegal tweed

This particular fabric features faint specs of colors offering a unique look and excellent texture. The lightweight build of these waistcoats makes them tailor-made for being sported during the summer months. Given the highly versatile nature of a tweed waistcoat, you can wear them to a formal, casual, and informal setting.

4. Windowpane

You can make a bold statement with a windowpane waistcoat featuring a checked pattern. It looks best if you have dressed formally in monochromes by exuding your style. Confident gentlemen can be seen sporting Windowpanes while donning the three-piece suit.

5. Hooded waistcoat

These types of jackets are extremely in vogue and perfect for city styles and swag looks. You can also add them to your wardrobe as a functional choice of winter attire.

Types of Waistcoats According to the occasion

1. Casual events

While sporting a casual waistcoat, you should avoid shiny fabrics and matching hues that symbolize formality. Rather, you can go for a textured look with fabrics like tweed or corduroy. You don’t need to worry too much about matching the fabric of your trouser with your waistcoat in casual dressing. Your look can be easily completed with slim-fit denim or a tailored pair of chinos.

2. Formal events

The right type of waistcoat can add an aura of formality as you dress for special events like dinners, parties, and work events. You should stick to single-breasted styles in slick fabrics. While grey and navy are traditional choices of waistcoat colors for formal events, you can also turn heads by adding a dash of color to your wardrobe with shades such as wine red or olive green.

3. Dressy/Black-tie events

Dressing for these events requires more thought and care compared to formal events. You should avoid doing anything too risqué and pair your waistcoat with the suit jacket and trousers.

How to pull off a waistcoat?

• Go for a waistcoat that fits like a glove as nothing looks as unflattering as an ill-fitted waistcoat.
• Your waistcoat has buttons for a reason. Make sure to button up at all times.
• Keep your shirt neatly tucked beneath the waistcoat as nothing should come below the waistcoat.
• The type of fabric you choose has a big role to play in helping you stand out on various occasions. While you can choose between different types of fabrics, tweed and cotton are the most popular choices. Cotton waistcoats are perfect for formal events while tweed ones are worn more casually.