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3 Ways to Style a Vest

Versatility, function, fashion – vests check all the boxes when it comes to completing the ideal outfit for any outing.

5 Min. Watch | How-To Guides

When we first introduced our colorful collection of Trail Model Down Vests back in ‘82, we didn’t just give people a throw-on-and-go jacket alternative; we gave them a fashion statement that’s endured for decades and a versatile outerwear piece that can be styled in so many ways. Want to learn how you can live your best vest life? Try these three styling tips for men and women, courtesy of wardrobe stylist Cristina.

Tip 1. Invest in Color

Building a look around a vest is all about experimenting with color. Neutrals will almost never let you down, but even vests in bright, vibrant tones have the ability to play nice with – and even accentuate – the colors and patterns in the rest of your outfit.

Use a bold pop of color to accentuate what you’re wearing underneath without distracting from the full look.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with color – you might be surprised at what you can pull off!

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Tip 2. Take a Layered Approach

People typically think of vests as outerwear, but what if we flipped that concept on its head? It may seem a little unconventional to wear a vest over a jacket or under another outerwear piece, but it’s a next-level tactic for adding warmth and style that our wardrobe stylist lives by – and you should too.

Wearing a simple vest under a slightly oversized jacket will give you a cool “three-piece suit” look, with super laid-back vibes.

Try putting a puffer over your jacket. Consider it an accessory that ties your outfit together, but won’t overwhelm the look.

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Tip 3. Go High-Low

High-low is a popular styling technique that mixes casual pieces with more formal ones to give an outfit a specific mood. Vests are the perfect vehicle for dressing an outfit up or down, requiring only a couple of simple strategies to take you from a hike to brunch and beyond with almost no effort at all.

Choose a vest with classic details like quilting and corduroy to take a casual look to the next level.

Adding a more active vest can bring a sophisticated look down to earth, while still feeling totally put together.

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