Technically speaking, a waistcoat is a collarless and sleeveless garment that is usually held closed in front and worn under another shirt. It usually has buttons at the front. If you are in Europe, the people call such garment a waistcoat, but if you are in America, they call such a piece of clothing a vest. A waistcoat or a vest is a versatile piece of clothing which you can dress up or down.
Casual
If you are going for the casual look, you should choose a fabric that is informal such as denim, cotton or linen for your waistcoat. You can layer your waistcoat over a simple and bold colored V-neck or crewneck on top in order to add another element without being too overdressed.
For a relaxed look, it will help a lot to keep your waistcoat unbuttoned especially if you are wearing a fitted top.
However, if your top is looser fitting, you can button up your waistcoat instead in order to add some structure to the outfit and so as you won’t appear so loose to the point of being underdressed. Wear jeans or trousers with a casual fabric and top off the look with flat shoes or if you want, you can also wear wedge heels.
Trendy
By means of adding a waistcoat to an ordinary piece of clothing, you can already transform your look into becoming trendier, but you should also observe the perfect color combination such as matching your waistcoat with a brighter or contrasting shade of shirt or top. It is also a nice idea to mix different fabric textures for your top such as chiffon or cotton. The varying fabrics can give you an electrifying look without being too dressy. You can boost up your look by adding the perfect pair of shoes in which you can also choose shoes with similar fabric. waistcoats for men are also very trendy now a days.
Sophisticated
You can add an instant touch of sophistication to your business or work outfit with just a piece of waistcoat. Traditionally, men and women use blazers, a long sleeves polo, button-up shirt and a bottom that will match the top. However, if you want a new look and something fresh to gaze at, then you should try using waistcoats instead with solid colors which you can wear over a light colored work shirt. A bottom that is made with similar or the same fabric with your waistcoat can be a perfect choice. With your new look, you will appear sophisticated without being too enclosed in a blazer.
Evening
If you are preparing for an evening look, then a waistcoat can be of big help for you, as well. You just have to choose the right fabric for an evening wear such as satin or velvet. If you don’t like such fabrics, then you can also wear waistcoats with casual fabrics, but just make sure that it has some additional details such as embroidery or beading so as it can be differentiated from a daytime waistcoat. If you want to wear jewelry with your waistcoat, you should remember to choose pieces that won’t be too close to your waistcoat. The focus should be on your waistcoat and if you wear larger accessories together with it, you will surely look overdressed for the occasion. Remember, you can be elegant with your evening look by just being simple.