Trend Report: Making vests work with your wardrobe

CMU senior Jake St. Juliana incorporates a vest into his daily wardrobe. (Jordan Oster | GCmag)

Trend Report: Vests

When most people think of a vest, they probably imagine a five-year-old child, an 80-year-old grandparent or some interpretation of “Back to the Future.”  Because of this, most people underestimate the fashion potential vests have.

Vests can be used in variety of ways.  They can be used to keep warm or add an edgy upgrade to an outfit. The key to vests is first being knowledgeable in how to wear them, and second, having the confidence to wear them.

With winter slowly winding down, a huge winter jacket soon won’t be necessary. This is the perfect time to break out your outdoors-y vest. These types of vests have more padding, and, with the free arm space, are more functional for doing outdoor activities.

Outdoor vests can be found at stores like Old Navy, Target, Kohl’s and Urban Outfitters. Outdoor vests come in a variety of colors and prints for almost any taste.

Vests can also be worn to spice up an ordinary outfit. Wearing a denim or leather vest can create a unique, and even rugged feel to an outfit. For some of the most unique vests, check out stores like Forever 21 or Urban Outfitters.

According to Illinois freshman Melissa Nowak, vests should be worn in a more professional setting.

“I think I would wear one in a job interview-type situation, but I wouldn’t wear one to class or when I go out to parties,” she said.

For guys, a classy way to give an outfit a boost is by wearing a dress vest. Pair a neutral colored vest, like grey, black, or blue, with a pair of jeans and a collared shirt to pull off the sophisticated look.

To take it one step further guys, wear a tie under your vest. With jeans, this will give
you a clean, polished look. With dress pants, you’ll look like a fashion genius.