8 Different Ways to Wear Your Waistcoat: From Casual to Formal

Staff

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Published July 14, 2014

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Updated December 24, 2022

How to Style Your Waistcoat–Once a menswear essential, somehow the waistcoat has been left behind as modern men, many in their efforts to simplify their wardrobe, have abandoned the smart piece. Often seen as formal, it’s been easy to overlook the waistcoat, but in our latest style guide, we showcase the waistcoat in both casual and formal looks. Maybe it’s time for you to update your wardrobe with a couple of new waistcoats.

1. Pairing your waistcoat with a casual button-down shirt and dark jeans. 

Justin Timberlake WaistcoatPin
Justin Timberlake at “Friends With Benefits” Premier Photocall in Moscow
Johnny Depp WaistcoatPin
Johnny Depp visited The Late Show with David Letterman in 2009
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David Beckham at the 2008 Teen Choice Awards

2. Pull all the versatile separates together. 

David Gandy wears a dapper evening look from Marks & Spencer to 'One For The Boys' charity ball.Pin
David Gandy (in Marks & Spencer) at 2014 ‘One For The Boys’ charity ball

3. Pair your tailored waistcoat with a chambray shirt. 

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Jeremy Kapone (in Burberry Tailoring) attended the 2014 Vogue Foundation Gala in Paris

4. Team with a collarless pullover shirt because there is no hard and fast rule that says you have to wear a collared shirt underneath your waistcoat every time! 

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Giorgio Armani Men Spring/Summer 2015

5. Or better yet, wear nothing underneath your waistcoat and call it a day!

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Giorgio Armani Spring/Summer 2013

6. Camouflage has been all the rage these days, so how about a camouflage waistcoat? 

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Street-style rockstar Nick Wooster

7. Experiment with different textures when fall/winter season approaches. 

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Giorgio Armani Fall/Winter 2014
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Dolce & Gabbana Fall/Winter 2012

 8. If you are daring, wear yours the Ann Demeulemeester ways. 

AD WaistcoatsPin
Ann Demeulemeester’s menswear collections throughout the year

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