It’s Not Really Fall Until You Own a Vest
Whether you opt for an oversized knit à la Kendall Jenner or an XXL down puffer like Gigi Hadid, there are a near-infinite number of ways to style a vest right now too. A roomy printed v-neck is easily paired with wide-leg denim and lug-sole loafers—and looks effortless over a T-shirt or crisp button-down.
If you’re thinking less grandpa-chic and more Gossip Girl prep, a casually unbuttoned waistcoat looks sexy in a subversive way (and nails the “old money aesthetic” you’re seeing all over social media). Fleece and down puffer vests continue to be autumnal mainstays that instantly ground your outfit with utilitarian edge.
It’s a vest world and we’re just living in it, so take note and shop the five best women’s vests below, from printed knit styles to fleece and down options.
Knit Vests
It’s tempting to break out your heavy knits once the slightest chill hits the air, but the good news is you can still revel in all the fall feels without having to bust out chunky pieces just yet. A knit vest is the perfect finishing touch to almost any fall lewk you put together, and in a solid hue, it can be thrown over anything from graphic mesh tops and tissue turtlenecks to long-sleeve floral midis. No goosebumps on our watch.
Printed Grandpa Vests
Argyle! Crochet! Rainbow! Cool-girls have crowned playful grandpa styles (the “uglier” the better, FYI) as the sweater of the season, and it’s not hard to see why: The prints are cozy, nostalgic, and can take a “basic” outfit formula (think a white button-down plus straight-leg denim) and instantly turn it into an on-trend ensemble that’s perfect for this time of year. Consider this retro knit as the foundation *and* highlight of all your fall ‘fits.
Blazer Vests
The most unexpected vest trend dominating our feeds right now? Blazer vests. Yep, that’s right. Once integral to a three-piece suit, the waistcoat is a new favorite among celebs who are putting a refreshingly modern spin on the silhouette by rocking it solo as a top, sometimes with the last few buttons open for a curtain reveal. Neutrals like camel and beige are a low-key entrance into the style, and look on-point when paired with flowy trousers and retro shades.
Fleece Vests
You probably have one (or two, or three) fleece vests hanging in your mudroom that could probably use an upgrade. Pick up a shrunken vest if you’re here purely for ~aesthetics~ or snap up one of Tory Burch or Barbour’s hardworking styles for leisurely autumnal activities, like apple-picking and stomping on crunchy fallen leaves.
Down Vests
As the more easygoing sibling of the puffer coat, the quilted down vest is perfect for transitioning into 40-degree temps since it can top off short jackets and chunky cardigans—or be worn underneath sweeping coat styles. (Versatility, we love to see it!) These vests in particular keep your core warm thanks to the down or down alternative fill, and look super cozy no matter where you’re headed.