Ladies who layer, it's time you try the vest. The sleeveless jacket is the perfect throwover for all occasions. Read on for seven killer ways to nail this fashion must-have
Who says layering is reserved only for winter fashion? Us tropical girls know the struggle all too well – staying stylish while beating the heat? Not quite an easy feat. Two words: the vest. Ranging from the breezy, chiffon variety to structured ones with lapels, the sleeveless jacket is an effortless, lightweight layer to spiff up basics and dressy enough to turn skimpier ensembles into work-appropriate ones. We’ve put together seven outfits featuring the versatile vest, so you can rock the look every single day of the week.
Monday
Can’t seem to pull it together after a manic weekend? Trust us – we get it. But know this: looking sharp and polished for your Monday morning meetings (while still hungover) is perfectly do-able. Throw on your well-tailored basics like a structured vest and chic grey trousers, slap on sensuous red lippie and pair with a statement bag and masculine brogues to show ’em who’s boss.
Mango adjustable cord gilet, $47.90
Uniqlo Airism tank top, $19.90
A.P.C Stretch-piqué slim-leg pants, USD110 via Net-a-porter
Lingwu Atlantis beige batik bag, $1200
Aldo Kerrobert oxfords
The Mindful Company Breathe band, $58
Tuesday
Tuesday feeling a lot like Monday? Shake off that work dread with cosy basics. Slip on a simple denim dress, and a lightweight vest for breezy layering. Cover up day-old hair with a cap, and finish with comfy, platform kicks for added height (and style!).
Mango Lapels ramie-blend gilet, $47.90
Equipment Lanie cotton-chambray mini dress, USD252 via Net-A-Porter
New Era 9Forty New York Yankees Cap, $28.76 via ASOS
3.1 Phillip Lim Medium Satchel, USD895 via Shopbop
Chanel Première Rock Metal via Worldtempus
Superga 2750 LEASNAKE – Silver, $139.90
Wednesday
Out for tipples with the girls today? Give your cocktail dresses a rest – switch up your look for something a little more modern. Start with the bralet you reserve for date nights and festivals. Don’t worry about flaunting too much skin; the highwaisted, wide-legged trousers and long vest you’ll pair it with promises sufficient coverage.
Mango Light Knit Gilet, $42.90
Mango Cropped Frilled Top, $16.90
Michael Kors stretch crepe wide-leg pants, USD 110 via Net-A-Porter
Marie Turnover Accessories The Lunch Clutch USD240
Skagen Gitte bracelet watch via Nordstorm
Thursday
Sail through meetings and post-work events with a power vest dress, belted at the waist for a more slimming silhouette. You don’t need much to make this dress pop – complement with towering nude heels, a sleek crossbody bag and minimal accessories.
Jennifer Zeuner Jewelry Ivy Gia Double Wrap Necklace, USD132 via Shopbop
By Malene Birger Dazango belted bouclé-cotton gilet, USD289 via Net-a-porter
Call it spring Eowossa Heeled Naked Lace Up Sandal, $88.49 via ASOS
Saint Laurent ‘Kate’ Pebbled Calfskin Leather Clutch, $1688.11 via Nordstorm
ASOS Limited Edition Open Knot Bracelet, $13.27
Forever 21 Cat Eye Glasses, $7.90
Friday
Ring in the weekend with a spangly, slip dress – but first, layer with a vest for work. Keep eye makeup neutral before blending into a smoky eye with darker shades for after-hours. Finish with statement heels, a leather clutch and silver accessories for a little sparkle.
ZARA long waistcoat, $49.90
Bershka spaghetti strap dress, $39.90
Lost Ink Rally Grey Strappy Heeled Sandals, $92.91 via ASOS
Sancia x Vanessa Mooney Buckle Clutch, USD260 via Shopbop
Tory Burch Sawyer Square Bangle Watch, $1513.17 via Nordstrom
Tarte Tartelette Amazonian clay eyeshadow palette, $45 via Sephora
Saturday
Tired of dressing pretty? Forget floral and feminine – exude tough girl vibes with a monochrome outfit, punctured with subtle prints, lots of leather and a statement bag. Don’t forget your Chelsea boots – these bad boys are a key cool-girl accessory.
Theory Sedeia linen-crepe vest, USD321 via via Net-A-Porter
ZARA Jacquard mini skirt, $29.90
Daisy Street black patent chelsea boots, $77.40 via ASOS
ASOS gold plated sterling silver chain choker necklace, $26.55
Mango sleeveless wrapped top, $45.90
MCQ – Alexander McQueen large pyramid pouch, USD230 via Shopbop
Sunday
Get cosy for a day of errand running and brunch-hunting with a simple tee and ripped jeans combo, layered under a long vest. Keep shoes and bag black, and sport a chunky necklace as the focal point.
Mango knitted cotton gilet, $42.90
Topshop MOTO super rip blue Jamie jeans, $106
J-crew linen v-neck pocket t-shirt, $71.70
Birkenstock Arizona Madrid Eva black, £22.95
Lizzie Fortunato Polynesia Tassel Necklace, USD595 via Shopbop