When summer rolls around, a few expected wardrobe heroes always come to the fore. Basket bags are taken out of storage, airy maxi dresses are hung front and centre in our wardrobes and light linens take their place in so many of our outfit builds. But in recent years, it's not only the classic linen trousers that have become a mainstay on warmer days.
For those looking for a little extra polish even when the sun is out, the linen waistcoat has charmed its way back into the hearts of fashion people, combining lightweight, breathable material and smart tailoring to become a mainstay on our wish lists at this time of year. And on a recent evening Instagram scroll, I found many great examples of how to style it.
After regaining its title in fashion circles a few years ago, the waistcoat is now a common feature in the most stylish wardrobes. Unlike the early 0'0s iterations that were worn loosely over boho ensembles, the current aesthetic is cool yet put-together, and my new favourite waistcoat ticks all the boxes. Even better, it comes from a high-street brand we regularly turn to for brilliant forever pieces: Whistles.
Finding a great piece on the high street with an expensive-looking edge is a personal passion of mine, and this waistcoat fits right into that category. It's the finer details that make these affordable pieces look well beyond their price tag, and on this occasion, Whistles has added a smattering of buttons, perfectly placed to be worn without a top underneath and to avoid bra-exposing gaps. The slightly higher neckline exudes elegance whilst the back tab adds to the tailored detail of the piece, which can be adjusted for a fitted or loose look.
Fashion influencers Erica Davies and Sarah Hughes (pictured above and below) perfectly illustrate the waistcoat's versatility, so much so that I took it upon myself to create four summer looks to show how many ways you can style it, whether with trusty denim, floaty skirts, a full linen look or slim-line tailoring. Whether headed for coffee or out for dinner, this smart piece is sure to fit the part.
Keep scrolling to shop Whistles' Lindsey Linen Blend Waistcoat (£99), and see the four ways I'm planning to style it for summer.
SHOP WHISTLES' TRENDING LINDSEY LINEN BLEND WAISTCOAT:
It also comes in a petite fit.
I love this fresh cream shade, and it's selling out fast.
4 WAYS I'M STYLING WHISTLES' LINDSEY LINEN BLEND WAISTCOAT
1. WAISTCOAT + JEANS + HEELS
The side pockets are such a nice touch.
A sleek pair of hoops can be relied upon every day.
A beloved style by Arket.
This could easily pass for designer.
Take any outfit to new heights with these understated strappy heels.
2. WAISTCOAT + SKIRT + FLAT SANDALS
The lightweight fabric makes it ideal for the summer months, or you can layer it up on milder days.
The sun is finally here, which means its time to pull out our favourite floaty skirts.
The perfect finishing touch.
From the bold shade to the intricate weaving, this is a bag you'll treasure for years.
The contrast stitching is a nice touch.
3. WAISTCOAT + LINEN TROUSERS + BASKET BAG
There's also a matching blazer if you're keen to re-create a full three-piece suit look.
Shop the matching Lindsey Linen Blend Blazer (£149).
It doesn't get much cooler than a matching linen set.
If you're looking to invest in a keep-forever basket bag, Loewe's sleek styles are always a smart choice.
So good that M&S reissues them every year.
The gold frames and subtly tinted lenses give a particularly vintage feel.
4. WAISTCOAT + SLIM TROUSERS + MULES
I love how it looks buttoned all the way.
Add some shimmer to your after-hours looks with a tennis necklace.
There's an innate elegance to the fit of these cigarette trousers.
Find your signature red lip and you'll stick to it forever.
Gold and white is such a classic combination.
If you thought these were designer I wouldn't blame you.
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