Waistcoat Outfits for Women: 7 Ways to Style a Waistcoat

The waistcoat has moved from men's three-piece suits to one of the most wearable pieces in a woman's wardrobe. Worn on its own as a top, layered over a shirt or as part of a co-ord, it instantly makes an outfit look tailored. In a warm country like India, it's the perfect alternative to a blazer.

Here are seven ways to wear one.

1. On its own, as a top, with tailored trousers

The modern office look. Button the waistcoat fully, tuck it into high-waisted wide-leg trousers and add a belt. Try the V Neck Sleeveless Waistcoat with Tailored Black Pants.

V neck sleeveless waistcoat for women

2. Over a crisp white shirt

The classic layered look. Wear a white cotton shirt underneath, roll the sleeves and leave the collar open. It works brilliantly for presentations and air-conditioned offices.

3. With jeans for the weekend

A printed waistcoat with straight or wide-leg denim is effortlessly cool. The Black Floral Printed Sleeveless Waistcoat adds interest without trying too hard.

4. With a skirt or skort

For a softer look, pair a vest top with a pleated skirt or skort. A Butter Yellow Buttoned Vest Top with a Denim Box Pleat Skort is perfect for brunch or a casual Friday.

5. As a matching co-ord

A waistcoat with matching trousers is the summer suit. It's polished and comfortable, and the pieces also work separately. The Maroon Buttoned Waistcoat Co-ord is a statement on its own.

6. In a bold colour for evenings

A colourful vest like the Scarlet Button Down Vest with black trousers, heels and a mini bag makes an easy, striking dinner outfit.

7. Tonal neutrals

Pair a Chocolate Button Down Vest with beige wide-leg trousers and a tan bag. Brown-on-beige looks rich and is very easy to pull off.

Waistcoat fit tips

  • Length: the waistcoat should hit at or just below the waistband of your bottoms. Tuck it in, or wear it over high-waisted pieces.
  • Fit: buttons should close without pulling. If they gape, go up a size.
  • Proportions: fitted waistcoats look best with wide or flowing bottoms; relaxed waistcoats work with slim bottoms.

Shop waistcoats, vests and more in our tops collection and Office Fits.

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