It’s Time to Invest in a Vest

Got a closet full of athleisure and loungewear? Fight back! Don’t get us wrong, we love a slip-on crochet top and a slinky tank, but this season,  it’s time to factor some sartorial structure into your life. Amidst an overtly casual era of dressing, the polished vest for women is shaping up to be the investment of the season.

From its roots in 17th-century royal court dress codes to its ubiquity among the party-going early 2000s It girls, the vest — with its waist-cinching shape, sleeveless silhouette and traditional button-up front — is a top with a big reputation.

Its sobering formality can be jarring at first glance. But when you think about it, what’s not to love? Vests are an essential piece of the everyday suiting equation. With their gendered history, they remain an ongoing emblem of fluid self-expression. Plus, there are simply so many ways to wear them. Whether it’s paired with low-slung trousers, a mini pleated skirt or billowing Bermuda shorts, the right vest for women can do it all.

As you search for the perfect going-out garment in peak heat days, consider divesting from your rotation of easy-going tops and embracing the styling intentionality of a sleek vest for women.

The best vests for women to shop now

Reformation Primrose vest

For a more feminine feel, Reformation’s fitted vest checks all the boxes. Adorned with dainty embroidered detailing around its V-shaped neckline, this halter cream top has the utilitarian appeal of a classic waistcoat with the added romance of a going-out chemise.

Frank and Oak button-up sweater vest

Most fashion lovers would agree that knitwear is in fact a year-round staple. And this patterned piece vest is the perfect example. Made of organic cotton yarn, it features a button-down front and a geometrical vintage-inspired print. To balance out the softness of the cotton, pair it with structured jeans.

The Drop Sadie cropped slim vest

You can’t go wrong with this classic black vest pick from fan-favourite Amazon retailer The Drop. Made of a polyester-rayon blend, it features a cropped length, a V-neck cut and a satisfyingly snug fit. Ranging up to a 4X, it’s the ideal versatile garment to factor into your fall office outfit rotation.

Aritzia Babaton Deniro vest

Available in seven tonal shades, this button-up vest is the classic choice for its traditional tailoring and curve-accentuating stretch. Made with a structured fabric that moves with you, this responsibly-sourced garment is ideal when paired with matching slouchy trousers.

Eileen Fisher boiled wool vest

Pictured in a dynamic charcoal shade, this Eileen Fisher vest is drawn from the brand’s best-selling archives. It’s been updated with RWS-certified boiled wool with sourced through regenerative farming practices. With a soft-to-the-touch feel and a subtly structured silhouette, it can be worn alone or layered atop a crisp collared top.

Belle The Label Portia top

Switch things up with this aesthetically experimental top by eco-conscious label Belle. Featuring a front zip and snap closure, its dainty tie-up neckline merges the quintessential “girl” visuals du jour with the classic menswear garment.

Gap longline twill vest

A reliable addition to your office-wear outfits, this red wine vest has an effortless on-trend appeal. Complete with a deep V-neck cut, two statement buttons and a subtle peplum flare, it adds sophistication to an outfit with zero effort required. Plus, this pick comes in petite and plus-size options.

Ba&Sh Essy waistcoat

Inspired by traditional men’s tailoring, Ba&sh’s Essy waistcoat hones in on chic androgyny. The V neckline and cropped length plays into feminine dressing codes, while the adjustable belt at the back is reminiscent of gentlemen’s attire. Plus, the intricate contrast stitching gives it an elevated finish.