How to style a waistcoat: 7 ways to wear the tailored top trend
The waistcoat – once a piece firmly reserved for the wardrobes of grandads and page boys, but now all that is changing and we have Wimbledon to thank for it. SW19 dressing rarely disappoints, and this week we've been wowed by model Alexa Chung and actress Michelle Dockery who both gave us a lesson in tennis-spectator attire.
MORE: We are obsessed with Sienna Miller's Wimbledon date outfit
Alexa wore a crisp white version of this season's staple, Ralph Lauren's 'Ethel' design, whereas Michelle opted for Giuliva Heritage's 'Andrea' waistcoat in an ivory shade – and we are totally here for it.
WATCH: Antonia Thomas on the cover of HFM's July Issue
Interestingly, the tailored style is a British concept. The piece first emerged during the reign of King Charles II, and in 1666 it was immortalised as an official part of a fashionable gentleman's dress.
RELATED: Styling Doc Martens: 4 ways to wear the footwear classic this summer
Hello! Fashion picks out our favourite four ways to style a waistcoat this season:
Style a waistcoat… like Michelle Dockery
A clean beautiful silhouette will never go out of style, and Michelle Dockery's Wimbledon outfit earlier this year is the perfect pictorial evidence. Wearing a classic ivory waistcoat alongside matching wide-leg trousers with crisp central pleats, the 40-year-old actress styled her neutral pieces up a notch with quality accessories. Favouring Aspinal of London's Midi Mayfair bag, oversized sunglasses and layered gold chains, Michelle proved that she is one to watch on the waistcoat front.
Luna premium suit waistcoat, £158, Reiss
SHOP NOW
Style a waistcoat… with wide-leg trousers
If you're going for a more casual vibe, fresh white trainers and a matching oval-shaped shoulder bag is the way to go. We love how the sunglasses tie all the tones in together, and how the relaxed fit of the trousers balances the cropped length of the waistcoat.
Grey cropped wool waistcoat, £69, COS
SHOP NOW
Style a waistcoat… like Alexa Chung
Alexa stepped out at Centre Court head-to-toe in Ralph Lauren. The 38-year-old layered her white waistcoat under a matching linen blazer, finishing off her crisp ensemble with tailored shorts featuring pleat detailing and low black block heels.
Chalk wool waistcoat, £965, Saint Laurent
SHOP NOW
Style a waistcoat… with a colourful accessory
Without fail, monochromatic looks always seem to hit the nail on the head. We love the pairing of a lightweight black waistcoat and an airy white suit, complete with a French tuck to focus the eye on the Chanel chain bumbag. A pop of colour in the scarf is a lovely playful touch - this is definitely an outfit we'll be recreating this season.
Jacquemus gathered twill waistcoat, £325, MatchesFashion
SHOP NOW
Style a waistcoat with...boho trousers
Sienna Miller, eat your heart out. Opt for an Afghan-style waistcoat alongside statement ruffle trousers for the ultimate boho vibe.
Feti Shearling Cardigan, £1,040, Zadig & Voltaire
SHOP NOW
Style a waistcoat with...pinstripe trousers
Stage a casual (but crucially, incredibly stylish) off-duty moment in a pinstripe co-ord.
Saint Laurent Pinstripe wool vest, £865, Mytheresa
SHOP NOW
Style a waistcoat over...a white shirt
Autumn is all about mastering the art of layering, and here's how: wear a crisp white shirt under an oversized shearling waistcoat to put your own spin on modern neutrals.
Cloud gilet, £89, Plumo
SHOP NOW
Like this story? Sign up to our HELLO! newsletters to get other stories like this delivered straight to your inbox.
HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.
