Vested interests

Mumbai’s teasing winter warrants an extra layer without swaddling up in woolies. These stylish vests can help you stay snug

In the world of fashion, vests are considered transition pieces. This means, they can be thrown over a lighter outfit for added warmth and style points, without adding too much bulk to your look. The trouble with vests is that the wrong style or pairing can make you look dated or too busy, says fashion influencer Sonam Babani. She illustrates key points you should consider when pairing your outfit with sleeveless vests.

>> Choose unconventional pairings: While vests worn over cardigans or button-down shirts make for a timeless look, wearing a more feminine outfit such as a light, chiffon dress with dramatic sleeves can add visual interest. For an even more avant-garde look, pair a vest with an oversized shirt and forgo bottoms. You could also ditch the shirt altogether and wear your vest as a top  — sleeveless sweater vests can easily replace tank tops, while longer blazers or dusters work well when paired with bustiers or bralettes and loose trousers or pencil skirts, says Babani. She also advises leaving the bottom buttons of a longer vest undone to show a hint of skin . This, she says, can make your look more chic.

>> Focus on silhouette and colour: Neutral toned vests are excellent wardrobe staples and can be repurposed with a variety of outfits. In fact, a black linen vest works well with virtually every outfit, while denim vests pair well with light, flowing summer dresses and A-line skirts. However, vests in jewel or bright tones can elevate even basic looks and make heads turn, Babani suggests Longer vests can add visual height to a petite frame, while furry or thicker vests cinched with a belt add shape to straighter body types. Mid-length or long vests are excellent for pear-shaped bodies. Embellished vests can replace a dupatta or jacket in Indian and Indo-Western looks — pick a shorter style with sparkling embellishments.

>> A matter of structure: Avoid mixing patterns - wear a plain vest with a printed shirt and a printed vest with a plain shirt. You could also wear a plain vest with a plain shirt or dress in the same colour, and experiment with texture. Avoid wearing baggy jeans with oversized vests as this can make you look frumpy. While puffer vests are trending in 2021, make sure to keep the rest of your look fitted while wearing them, to avoid adding excessive bulk to your look.
£Retro on purpose: Sweater vests in geometric patterns are a fun throwback to the ‘80s. Peasant blouses and dresses can be layered with fitted vests to create a streamlined silhouette.

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