Well it seems the whole nation has got on board with ‘Waistcoat Wednesday’, prompted by Gareth Southgate’s preference to wear them, so I thought that I’d firstly join in too (see my quick snap below) and secondly share some tips for both men and women on how you can wear them!
For Women:
I haven’t really given waistcoats much of a thought when putting together my own outfits lately, so I was surprised to find that I actually own three waistcoats, two more formal structured ones and this white and blue patterned one! So it’s been great fun putting together a patriotic red, white and blue outfit including said waistcoat today!
Here are a few tips to make sure you choose your waistcoats wisely:
- Straighter body shapes – waistcoats are great for you, particular those which have darts at the waistline, which will give the illusion of more curves. There are a selection below from Jow Browns and a denim one from Bon Prix, an inexpensive addition to your wardrobe at just £12.99 and a different way to do the denim trend if a denim dress or shirt don’t take your fancy.
- Curvy body shapes – if you are full busted and/or have a curvier figure, fabric is the key to finding a waistcoat that works for you. Crisp, starchy materials in straight cuts won’t go around your lovely curves and show off your shape. So choose waistcoats that are in softer fabrics or have some stretch (lycra/elastane etc) in the fabric
- A long waistcoat/cut off jacket or cardigan works wonders for creating a slimmer and longer silhouette. By creating a column of colour in this way the body appears taller and slimmer.
For Men:
Waistcoats are often thought to be a traditionally male wardrobe piece, and I have to say I rather like the smartness that a waistcoat adds. Whether it’s worn with a shirt and tie and no jacket (as per Gareth Southgate) or as part of a three-piece suit, it can look incredibly polished and professional.
A CEO I saw recently told me that he preferred a waistcoat to a jacket as it was more comfortable, he enjoyed the freedom of being able to move his arms around rather than feel restricted by a jacket. It still ticked his boxes of looking like a leader and presenting a professional image, but also showed his more creative side too.
Waistcoats can also add a something extra when worn more casually too. Worn with a pair of jeans they add fun to what would otherwise be simply jeans and shirt or t-shirt.
So don a waistcoat today and enjoy cheering on our boys tonight … it’s coming home …!
(Photo from Daily Express)