I have long associated quilted vests with the posh boys at university who wore them over their rugby shirts with red trousers and boat shoes. (If this image resonates with you, then it’s because you know it to be highly accurate.) While I mean no disrespect to this way of dressing, it was and is perhaps completely different in every way to my own personal style. And if I’m being honest, I’ve always found it lacking in terms of being, well, cool. But as with literally everything in fashion, it’s eventually become a sought-after piece. (Hey, even Crocs have had their moment in the fashion spotlight.)
For me, the utilitarian trend is what’s behind my enjoyment of this garment. I appreciate the fact that many will turn up their noses at this half-jacket look, but it’s very practical, really. And therein lies the reason I like it: The gilet—because that’s what it is—helps to keep the body warm while ensuring that your arms keep the rest of you cooler. It’s the ideal piece to wear when it’s not fully coat season but still enough to keep out the nip.
While Prada has been backing the gilet for a few seasons with its oversized vests featuring large pockets, there is, of course, more to this trend—especially in the UK. Thanks to the queen and Kate Middleton, the gilet is also making a comeback with the two top women in the British royal family loving this trend.
Lizzie has long been a fan of the padded vest, but the Duchess of Cambridge has often been spotted wearing a similar look over linen shirts and skinny jeans. But if the preppy, royal styling isn’t your thing (as it’s not mine), then I’d consider wearing it like the street style set. The main rule here is to go oversized and keep it to minimalistic colours such as beige and khaki. Wear it over a similar neutral colour, and voilà—you’re wearing a quilted vest, and it looks great. Keep scrolling to shop my favourites right now.
Style Notes: Pair your beige dress with a khaki gilet. Pure minimalist joy.
Style Notes: Make your knitted dress stretch throughout the colder months with a beige quilted vest thrown over the top.
Shop the Quilted Vest
This piece was published at an earlier date and has since been updated. Next up, the biggest autumn 2021 fashion trends to know.
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