8 Different Ways to Wear Your Waistcoat: From Casual to Formal

Staff

/

Published July 14, 2014

/

Updated December 24, 2022

How to Style Your Waistcoat–Once a menswear essential, somehow the waistcoat has been left behind as modern men, many in their efforts to simplify their wardrobe, have abandoned the smart piece. Often seen as formal, it’s been easy to overlook the waistcoat, but in our latest style guide, we showcase the waistcoat in both casual and formal looks. Maybe it’s time for you to update your wardrobe with a couple of new waistcoats.

1. Pairing your waistcoat with a casual button-down shirt and dark jeans. 

Justin Timberlake WaistcoatPin
Justin Timberlake at “Friends With Benefits” Premier Photocall in Moscow
Johnny Depp WaistcoatPin
Johnny Depp visited The Late Show with David Letterman in 2009
David Beckham WaistcoatPin
David Beckham at the 2008 Teen Choice Awards

2. Pull all the versatile separates together. 

David Gandy wears a dapper evening look from Marks & Spencer to 'One For The Boys' charity ball.Pin
David Gandy (in Marks & Spencer) at 2014 ‘One For The Boys’ charity ball

3. Pair your tailored waistcoat with a chambray shirt. 

Vogue Foundation Gala Arrivals - Paris Fashion Week : Haute-Couture Fall/Winter 2014-2015Pin
Jeremy Kapone (in Burberry Tailoring) attended the 2014 Vogue Foundation Gala in Paris

4. Team with a collarless pullover shirt because there is no hard and fast rule that says you have to wear a collared shirt underneath your waistcoat every time! 

Giorgio-Armani-Men-Spring-Summer-2015-Milan-Fashion-Week-040Pin
Giorgio Armani Men Spring/Summer 2015

5. Or better yet, wear nothing underneath your waistcoat and call it a day!

GA 2Pin
Giorgio Armani Spring/Summer 2013

6. Camouflage has been all the rage these days, so how about a camouflage waistcoat? 

Nick-WoosterPin
Street-style rockstar Nick Wooster

7. Experiment with different textures when fall/winter season approaches. 

GAPin
Giorgio Armani Fall/Winter 2014
dolcegabbana66Pin
Dolce & Gabbana Fall/Winter 2012

 8. If you are daring, wear yours the Ann Demeulemeester ways. 

AD WaistcoatsPin
Ann Demeulemeester’s menswear collections throughout the year

Recent Updates

Golf Outfits for Men: Comfort & Style on the Fairway

Golf Outfits for Men: Comfort & Style on the Fairway

Classic men's golf outfits embody precision, style, and functionality, seamlessly integrating essential elements like well-fitted polos, tailored chinos or shorts, ...
Vintage Outfits for Men: Embracing the Past with Modernity

Vintage Outfits for Men: Embracing the Past with Modernity

The world of vintage outfits for men illuminates the enduring appeal of pieces that have stood the test of time ...
How to Wear a White Suit: From Classic to Modern Styling

How to Wear a White Suit: From Classic to Modern Styling

Mastering how to wear a white suit, including its nuanced off-white variations, unfolds a new chapter in the narrative of ...
Rugged Style for Men: A Guide for the Adventurous Spirit

Rugged Style for Men: A Guide for the Adventurous Spirit

The rugged style for men encapsulates the idea of resilience and an adventurous spirit. This sartorial choice speaks to the ...
Bomber Jacket Outfits Men

Bomber Jacket Outfits for Men: How to Wear the Style Staple

Men's bomber jacket outfits epitomize the essence of timeless clothing—symbolizing style and versatility that has endured through the years. Originating ...
Spring Outfits for Men: Embracing Fashion Staples for [year]

Spring Outfits for Men: Embracing Fashion Staples for 2024

As the chill of winter fades, men's spring outfits come to the forefront of fashion. The season focuses on versatile ...