The best women’s waistcoats for sharpening up your 9 to 5
Make a statement in these borrowed-from-the-boys styles
All products are chosen independently by our editors. Luxury London may earn commission on items purchased.
Let’s talk about the waistcoat trend. The ultimate wardrobe staple has made a grand resurgence over the past few years and we’re here for it. Ideal for underrated trans-seasonal dressing with impeccable tailoring and styles, there’s a reason Gen Z loves them and Millennials and Baby Boomers are back in them. Waistcoat are having their moment.
Once Kate Moss’ signature style, the best waistcoats for women in 2024 have taken on a more polished avatar than their bohemian predecessors. They’re chic and sharp, making for a great layering alternative to bulky jumpers and cardigans. Despite leaning heavily into a trend, waistcoats are also timeless. Consider a waistcoat paired with a matching suit for a classic day-to-night look or wear one over a shirt or light jumper in the colder months. Come summer, pair your waistcoat with jeans and ballet flats for a timeless off-duty model look.
Waistcoats work equally well for the office as they do on a night out (it’s the new jeans-and-a-nice-top combo). While cult favourites, like The Frankie Shop’s waistcoats, are great tailored options, don’t sleep on the denim, satin or even colourful iterations that promise to up your cool factor instantly. Need inspiration? Shop our pick of this season’s best women’s waistcoats below.
The Frankie Shop Gelso waistcoat
The Frankie Shop’s Gelso waistcoat is almost always sold out, a testament to the Gen Z-favourite label’s sustained popularity. Cut for a slightly oversized fit with welt pockets, the simple silhouette pairs well with practically everything in your wardrobe. Wear with pleated wide-leg grey trousers for a chic monotone look.
Tom Ford velvet vest
Dress up a pair of jeans with Tom Ford’s velvet vest or pair with the matching trousers for a refined look. Crafted from plush velvet fabric in a deep burgundy and finished with classic mother-of-pearl buttons, it features racerback straps and will transform your outfit from day to night.
Frame denim vest
LA brand Frame is a crowd-pleaser for a reason. This waistcoat is crafted from the label’s signature rigid denim in a deep inky-blue and cut with a v-neckline. Wear with matching jeans for that double denim Nineties appeal.
WARDROBE.NYC Paneled Prince of Wales check vest
Adding a preppy touch to the trend, Wardrobe.NYC offers a wool woven vest in Prince of Wales check. The waistcoat features a satin-twill back panel with a buckled belt for a customisable fit, and looks equally chic layered under a blazer, worn over a white puffy blouse, or solo.
Rebecca Vallance Winnie tweed vest
Keep your colour palette fresh and tonal with Rebecca Vallance’s oatmeal waistcoat. The neutral-hued vest is made from a beige tweed and features an adjustable tab at the back to fit accordingly. Feminine and flattering, the go-with-anything shade ensures this vest is as versatile as it comes.
Agolde Heller organic denim vest
Los Angeles-based brand Agolde is renowned for its denim offering. The Heller vest is crafted from the brand’s lightweight organic cotton and cut for a slim fit. Layer it over a roll-neck jumper with blue jeans and boots for a winter-ready denim-on-denim look.
Staud Brett single-breasted vest
We’re still not over dopamine dressing and Staud’s bright tomato red vest nails the joyful trend. The slightly loose vest is features welt pockets, and whether you wear it with the matching trousers or pair it with jeans, it’ll add the perfect pop of colour to gloomy winter days.
Whistles Lottie Pinstripe Waistcoat
Another winning formula from Whistles, the Lottie waistcoat combines a slightly loose, button down fit with an all-over pinstripe design. Rendered in an olive colourway, it’s contemporary, chic and a little bit playful. While the matching trousers make for a put-together, smart look, pair with black or white jeans and trainers for a striking casual vibe.
GUEST IN RESIDENCE Houndstooth cashmere vest
Made from 100 per cent fine Mongolian cashmere in a black and sand-hued houndstooth, Guest in Residence’s vest will work wonders during wintry months, whether for dressy affairs or elevated everday style. Tailored for a slim fit to define your silhouette, wear solo, with a long-sleeved T-shirt or blouse for effortless (and warm) elegance.
Moschino striped waistcoat
Moschino’s waistcoat offers a slightly more masculine, old-fashioned design – think Peaky Blinders vibes. Crafted from 100 per cent wool in a classic grey stripe, it features an adjustable strap at the back, front zip pockets and multiple patch pockets, blending functionality and style.
Read more: The best knit dresses for a cosy winter
