Vests have become a staple in modern wardrobes, offering a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Vests provide endless possibilities, whether you're aiming for a casual look or a refined formal attire for men and women. They work across seasons and can be incorporated into styles that transcend gender norms, making them an essential piece for fashion-forward individuals. In this guide, we’ll break down four ways to style vests, showcasing their flexibility for any setting.
How Do You Make Vests Look Good?
Styling vests comes down to mixing materials, patterns, and layering. Whether it’s a utility vest for a casual day out or a more refined vest for formal occasions, choosing the right textures and prints can make or break the look. Start by playing with contrasts. Pairing a solid vest with a patterned shirt or a textured vest with a plain undershirt creates balance and depth. Incorporating patterns like stripes or checks beneath a vest can add visual interest without overwhelming the outfit.
Additionally, the type of vest you choose—whether pocketed, fitted, or oversized—will dictate the tone of your look. Casual vests with multiple pockets give off a utilitarian vibe, while tailored vests instantly elevate an outfit. The key to making a vest look good is ensuring that the rest of the outfit complements its structure and fit, creating a cohesive, stylish look. For those looking for gifts for fashionable men, a well-selected vest can be a timeless option that blends style and function.
#1 Pocketed Vests and Cargo Pants
For a modern, utilitarian-inspired look, pairing a pocketed vest with cargo pants is a go-to option. This combination blends functionality with style, creating a relaxed yet fashion-forward outfit. The pockets on both the vest and the pants give a cohesive feel, while the loose fit of cargo pants balances the structure of the vest.
Choose a neutral-colored vest—like this Bonded Gabardine Vest in tan or gray—and pair it with matching Bonded Gabardine Cargo Pants to maintain a streamlined look. If you’re feeling bolder, opt for cargo pants with a subtle pattern to add contrast. For footwear, chunky sneakers or combat boots tie the outfit together, giving it a street-ready appeal that works for casual settings.
This look is perfect for day-to-day menswear and offers a functional approach without sacrificing style. The key here is balance—pairing the utility elements of the vest with the more relaxed fit of cargo pants keeps the look both practical and effortlessly cool.
#2 Layering for the Season
Vests are perfect for layering, offering both style and warmth as the seasons change. For colder months, layering a vest like this Brushed Plaid Vest over a long-sleeve hoodie with our B531 Carpenter Flare Denim provides an extra layer of insulation while still keeping the outfit sleek. This look also works well with knit long-sleeves or turtlenecks under a vest, adding texture and depth to the outfit.
In the winter, layering a puffer vest under a long wool coat or parka keeps you warm while maintaining a sharp silhouette. Opt for a cotton long-sleeve underneath to avoid too much bulk. Alternatively, you can layer a fleece-lined vest over a crewneck cozy sweater or hoodie for a casual, relaxed winter look.
This outfit formula works across genders and can be adjusted based on personal preferences, offering a balanced approach to layering that’s both practical and stylish.
#3 Vest Only Look
For those who want to push the boundaries of traditional vest styling, consider the vest-only look—wearing the vest without an undershirt. This bold approach brings an element of sleekness to your outfit, creating a statement look ideal for formal or elevated streetwear occasions.
Pairing a well-fitted vest with these baggy suit pants and double-breasted coat keeps the look sharp and sophisticated. Add accessories like simple necklaces or chains to bring a touch of personality to the outfit without overshadowing the clean lines of the vest. This minimalist approach works well for evening events or nights out where you want to stand out while maintaining a refined look.
It’s crucial to keep the rest of the outfit simple when going for a vest-only look. Another option would be a solid color vest paired with neutral trousers that lets the vest take center stage without looking overdone. This look is all about balance—sleek accessories and understated footwear, like polished loafers or minimalist sneakers, ensure the outfit feels cohesive.
#4 Refined & Modern Vest Outfits
For more formal occasions, vests can be styled with suiting pieces for a sophisticated yet modern look. Pair a striped mohair sweater vest with black baggy suit pants and a black suit coat for a fresh take on traditional formalwear. The relaxed fit of the pants contrasts with the more tailored silhouette of the vest and coat, creating a balance between casual and refined.
Keep the undershirt tucked in for a clean look, and opt for sleek boots or minimalist dress shoes to complete the outfit. The combination of different textures adds visual interest while maintaining a modern edge. This approach to suiting works well for business settings, semi-formal events, or even upscale casual outings, offering a contemporary twist on classic formalwear.
Shop Modern Styles at mnml
Vests are an incredibly versatile wardrobe staple that can be styled for any occasion, from casual daytime looks to more formal events. Whether you’re opting for a pocketed vest with cargo pants or layering up for the season, vests offer endless possibilities for fashion-forward individuals. At mnml, we offer a range of modern vests designed to fit seamlessly into your wardrobe, allowing you to explore different styles and fashion trends that reflect your personal style.
Discover the latest vest styles in neutral tones, layering pieces, and tailored fits in our new suiting collection. With pieces that match any occasion, mnml ensures that you can incorporate this essential item into your everyday looks with ease.
