Best Waistcoats 2021: Faux Leather, Printed, Black & More

As we head into autumn, more and more trends from seasons past are coming back in rotation. One that is sure to make a return? The waistcoat.

It was popular in the mid-2000s (but of course, it was even way before then — in the 1600s to be exact — though that’s for another story), thanks in part to Kate Moss wearing one all the time.

It made a brief comeback in 2020 when it appeared at the spring/summer 2020 shows of Saint Laurent, Louis Vuitton, Celine, Gucci, Givenchy, Jil Sander, Acne, Burberry, Moncler, R13, and Ganni.

Bella Hadid also made a brief case for the waistcoat last year when she wore a Dilara Findikoglu piece at Paris Fashion Week.

This year, after months of being cooped up inside our houses and wearing baggy, comfy clothing all day everyday, it seems like the return of the waistcoat can be attributed to our yearning for a bit more structure in our clothing.

There has been a 33% increase in page views for women’s waistcoats, according to Lyst, and people have been searching for ‘suit’, ‘vest’, and ‘tailored’ quite a lot. Among the coveted names that carry this trending piece are designer brands The Row and Gabriela Hearst, and high street hero Mango.

So it’s now really just a matter of deciding whether or not you’re ready to get on board the trend because the options are abundant. Aside from Mango, other high street champs such as Zara and & Other Stories are also riding the wave.

I’ve looked through so many waistcoats and here are the ones that caught my attention — and I believe they will catch yours too.

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