Could waistcoats ever go out of style?
Even though we might have unintentionally slid into comfort wear for a while, it's time to bring some timeless pieces back. And as of now, waistcoats are leading that category. This imperishable garment has stuck out through the season of sweatpants and sweaters to remind us that style cannot be just replaced by comfort, they should go hand in hand.
With that said, looking back at the history of waistcoats, since its origin in the early 17th century at English court, introduced by the King Charles II of England as the correct dress code, this piece has been upgraded several times throughout the ages.
from its original longer version to the sleeveless vest to waist-length, waistcoats for men are meant to elevate an outfit and bring depth, therefore best worn under a blazer or as part of a three-piece suit.
Waistcoats from the workroom of HANSEN Garments
If you're looking for a fancy waistcoat for men, we align our designs with the values we stand for. Simplicity and minimalism have got us this far and we believe our designs speak for themselves without HANSEN garments being loud and glossy.
Moreover, since we're big partisans of casual style, our waistcoats, designed as part of three-piece suits are perfect to combine with different styles, like men's casual waistcoats with jeans or oversized outfits with waistcoats for women.
Among our favourite waistcoats is KAJ Casual Waistcoat available through our webshop in several different colours, combinable with different suits, like NICOLAI Casual Three-Button Blazer and FRED Regular Fit Trousers. This simple design is made of an Italian cotton-linen blend with a 6-button closing for ultimate comfort and unique style.
Unique waistcoats at HANSEN Garments
Taking a spin on the classic style, patterned waistcoats can bring your style to another level. Originally launched as a newcomer for our SS20 collection, our DANIEL Four-Button Waistcoat comes in two different styles, a mixed checkered and a checkered variation.
Both styles can be worn with CHRISTOFFER Two-Button Blazer (also available in mixed checkered and checkered style) and SUNE Pleated Wide Cut Trousers as part of a three-piece suit attire, or as a part of a more casual outfit, for example with the Kapital's High Waisted Nime Pants.
These designs are made of Italian fabric, a blend of 64% linen and 36% cotton, a very comfortable material that perfectly complements the quality craftsmanship and design that went into these garments.
Material matters
If you're more interested in materials than patterns, we have a treat for you too. KAJ Casual Waistcoat in camel is made of 98% cotton corduroy and 2% elastane blend which gives this fabric and extra dimension and this design a unique spin. This waistcoat with lapels has an option to be altered from regular fit into a wider more casual style.
Another beautiful abbreviation is the HALFDAN Classic Waistcoat in shade beach. This piece is made of 67% linen and 33% cotton which is a fabric that allows for the sleek design and precise visible seams that only elevate the classic design.
A similar material focus has the BEN Crew Neck Waistcoat. This garment comes in an informal design that is perfect for casual outfits, especially when worn as a men's causal waistcoat with jeans. The hemp-cotton fabric with mixed plain and twill weave creates a beautiful design perfect for suits and relaxed fits as well.
Frequently asked questions about waistcoats
What is a waistcoat definition?
Officially, a waistcoat is an upper-body garment worn over a shirt (at times over top), paired with a suit for formal wear or on its own as part of a casual outfit.
Waistcoats for women are part of formal attire or worn on their own with matching pants, outfits that gained popularity throughout the SS21 season.
Waistcoat designs are countless, as well as the possibilities of combining this garment, from a simple formal layer to a waistcoat jacket or unique waistcoats for weddings.
How to wear a waistcoat?
A waistcoat is a garment that is seemingly only appropriate for formal or black-tie events. But in case you don't know the appropriate dress code for an occasion or you simply want to up your outfit, waistcoats can never be a shot in the dark.
The best way to combine the waistcoat with the rest of your outfit is to go for matching tones between pants, suit and waistcoat. Opt for complementary or analogous colours if you're choosing a colourful waistcoat to elevate your outfit, or keep the waistcoat in focus and dial the rest of the outfit back with natural tones.
What is the difference between a waistcoat and a vest?
Similarly, like a waistcoat, a vest is a sleeveless upper-body garment worn over a shirt or top. Unlike a waistcoat, however, a vest is less formal, worn in settings as a casual office environment to everyday outfits.
In recent years we've seen the popularity of both garments rise exponentially, while vests as a day-to-day garment, waistcoats keep the decorum of a unique garment, especially when it comes to men's waistcoats.
