The long vest is still very popular this year. And, with good reason! Long vests are incredibly slimming and flattering as they create long, lean lines. In this article, you’ll find inspiration on how to put together long vest outfits, together with a capsule featuring long vests. We’ll show you lots of options on how to wear a long vest and look super chic.
Here are just a few reasons why the long vest works so well
- Long vests create a long lean line.
- Perfect for hiding bellies and distracting attention away from them.
- Great to give you some extra warmth and a fabulous transition piece for fall.
- Easy to layer. Wear over a variety of tops and wear cardigans or jackets over them when it gets really cold.
- You can play with different fabrics.
- They come in a variety of fabrics and weights and sometimes allow you to create an architectural look.
- You can create various looks depending on your vest. From edgy to bohemian to minimalist to casual chic.
Rita @ritapalazzi above (read her style interview here) teams a long vest with her print jumpsuit. This is a great way to break up the look of a print, allowing you to create different outfits from the same jumpsuit.
Check out these jumpsuits from Karen Millen, FLORET STUDIOS and Amazon that you can wear with this similar pair of vest, sandals, clutch and earrings.
The best long vests to choose in stores now
We’re going to show you lots more long vest outfit inspiration. But first, let’s look at some of the most stylish long vests to choose.
Long blazer style vest
A blazer style vest like the Nordstrom option (below) is a stylish, smart choice. You could easily wear for work, or dressing up your jeans.
Nordstrom Two-Button Longline Vest
belted vest
If you have a slim waist that you want to show off, choose a belted option. This is a great choice if you have an hourglass figure.
blazer vest
Think about where your vest ends. Generally, the longer the better to create slimming lines. For example, the Karen Millen vest (below) is relatively short, ending just below the hips. Perfect if your hips are part of your body you love, but if you’re a pear shape and trying to draw attention away from your hips, choose a longer style.
Karen Millen Relaxed Tailored Sleeveless Blazer Vest
Boma @mrs.gaf above shows how you could wear your long vest for work.
Steal her look with this similar blouse, pants, vest, pumps and handbag.
Sleeveless coat – trench style
A trench coat is a timeless classic, and a sleeveless trench will also stand the test of time. Wear it for work over your white shirt, or layer over your knitwear when the weather gets colder.
satin vest
If you want to wear your vest for the evening, look out for luxurious materials like silk or satin.
Vince Camuto Belted Satin Vest
denim vest
Denim (that isn’t your regular jeans) is particularly on trend for Fall 2023. Wear with a simple white shirt and black leggings, or layer over your favorite dress.
HALITOSS Mid Long Denim Jean Vest
knitted vest
Stella Carakasi’s vest comes in either gray and white, or black and white. It’s super versatile. Leave it buttoned up as a sweater, or leave it open as a duster jacket.
crochet vest
A crochet vest is an ideal choice if you love a boho look. Or, you want to wear a long vest in warmer weather. The crochet vest (below) would look good with a tank top, shorts and sandals.
long vest
If you want to create lovely long lines, perhaps to look taller and slimmer, then a longer vest like the duster style (below) is perfect.
similar jumpsuit, vest, pumps, tote, necklace and sunglasses
coatigan
For extra warmth, choose a thicker style like the Karen Millen coatigan (below), and wear it over your sweaters.
Karen Millen Wool Blend Boucle Belted Sleeveless Coatigan
Open front cardigan
The lightweight cardigan vest (below) comes in a huge choice of colors and prints, so you’re sure to find one you love. Reviewers say the material is soft, and it’s perfect for warmer weather.
Design by Olivia Sleeveless Draped Open Front Cardigan Vest
Asymmetric open vest
Asymmetry can add interest to your outfits. The Lock and Love open front vest (below) comes in 25 color choices, and wearers say it is perfect for adding stylish layers without looking bulky.
Lock and Love Asymmetric Hem Open Front Cardigan Vest
lightweight vest
A longer choice with an asymmetric hem for you now, the Anna-Kaci vest (below) comes in either black, red or cream, and features an asymmetric hemline that ends below the knees.
Anna-Kaci Brushed Lightweight Draped Long Cardigan Vest
How to wear a long vest – outfits & ideas
Which is your favorite long vest from above? And, how should you wear it? Below are just some ideas on how you can wear the long vest this season.
casual chic
Mix casual and formal elements together to create a chic outfit. Nora @juststylela below (read her style interview here) wears her long vest with a casual jeans and t-shirt outfit, and elevates the look with her accessories.
Check out this similar tee, vest, jeans, espadrilles, bag, earrings and necklace, belt and sunglasses.
Lock and Love Asymmetric Hem Open Front Cardigan Vest – Stine Goya Eleanor Sleeveless Satin Top – Wit & Wisdom Jeggings – Tory Burch Minnie Travel Ballet Flat – Tory Burch Perry Mini N/S Crossbody Tote – Lucky Brand Pearl Lariat Necklace
bohemian chic
Long vests are perfect for a bohemian outfit, as the boho look is all about layering. Wear a long vest over your favorite print dress.
Vince Camuto Patchwork Print Long Sleeve High-Low Chiffon Dress – Paul Green Cayanne Peep Toe Sandal – Anya Hindmarch The Neeson Herringbone Woven Metallic Leather Tassel Clutch – Kendra Scott Camry Drop Earrings
With a dress
The beauty of long vests is they look great over either pants or dresses. Wear yours with a dress. Look for a vest that is about the same length, or longer than your dress.
HALITOSS Mid Long Denim Jean Vest – Nordstrom Two-Button Longline Vest – Treasure & Bond Rib Henley Midi Dress – Paul Green Cayanne Peep Toe Sandal – Kurt Geiger London Shoreditch Convertible Crossbody Bag – Kendra Scott Camry Drop Earrings
All neutrals with a pop of color
The long vest looks very chic in a minimalist outfit. This does not necessarily have to be black and white. You can add a pop of any color to your outfit.
Natalia @odin.stylish.me above opts for cream and pink.
Get her look with this similar top, vest, skirt, sandals, bag, earrings, necklace and sunglasses.
Karen Millen Wool Blend Boucle Belted Sleeveless Coatigan – Vince Slim Silk Blouse – Vince Camuto Wide Leg Trousers – Kate Spade New York Garnish Pump – Tory Burch Perry Mini N/S Crossbody Tote – Kendra Scott Jovie Imitation Pearl Hoop Earrings
With leather or coated jeans
Leather or coated jeans are perfect for cooler months, and look great with a long vest layered over them. You can dress your coated jeans and vest up with heeled booties, or down with sneakers.
H&M Bow Long Vest – Vince Slim Silk Blouse – 7 For All Mankind Coated High Waist Slim Kick Flare Jeans – Paul Green Cayanne Peep Toe Sandal – Kurt Geiger London Shoreditch Convertible Crossbody Bag – Kendra Scott Camry Drop Earrings
with shorts for summer
Just because the weather is warmer, that doesn’t mean you can’t layer. A lightweight vest looks stylish worn with your shorts and sandals.
GLEAMISS Crochet Vest – Vince Camuto Rumpled Satin Blouse – Wit & Wisdom ‘Ab’Solution Cuffed Denim Shorts – Franco Sarto Glenni Sandal – Tory Burch Perry Mini N/S Crossbody Tote – Lucky Brand Pearl Lariat Necklace
With jeans
Your jeans are such a versatile part of your wardrobe, that you can wear them with anything, including a long vest. Beth @styleatacertainage below (read her style interview here) shows how you can wear your long vest to dress up your jeans.
Check out this similar top, vest, jeans, sandals, bag, necklace, earrings and sunglasses.
Design by Olivia Sleeveless Draped Open Front Cardigan Vest– Vince Camuto Rumpled Satin Blouse – Wit & Wisdom ‘Ab’Solution Itty Bitty Bootcut Jeans – Franco Sarto Glenni Sandal – Tory Burch Perry Mini N/S Crossbody Tote – Kendra Scott Jovie Imitation Pearl Hoop Earrings – Lucky Brand Pearl Lariat Necklace
with a full skirt
Full skirts are particularly on trend for Fall 2023. Choose a belted vest to show off your waistline, or look for a long vest that is at least as long as your skirt.
Karen Millen Relaxed Tailored Sleeveless Blazer Vest – Favorite Daughter Cross Back Strap Rib Tank – Halogen Pieced High-Low Skirt – Tory Burch Minnie Travel Ballet Flat – Tory Burch Perry Mini N/S Crossbody Tote – Kendra Scott Jovie Imitation Pearl Hoop Earrings
Layered with other knitwear for cooler weather
As long as you aren’t expecting rain, then a long vest worn over a sweater can keep you just as cosy as wearing a coat.
H&M Sleeveless Trench Coat – St. John Collection Dimensional Pointelle Stitch Turtleneck Sweater – Wit & Wisdom Jeggings – Sam Edelman Shale Knee High Boot – Kate Spade New York Scroll Silk Blend Bandana Scarf
Ideas on how to wear long vests
Shop the items above here:
For even more inspiration on how to wear a long vest, you can also check my how to wear a long vest Pinterest board.
Do you like the long vest look? What are your own tips on how to wear a long vest? How will you wear your sleeveless vest this season?
Like this article on how to wear a long vest? Share it on Pinterest
Feature image by Beth @styleatacertainage
Sylvia is 40+style’s editor-in-chief and has been helping women find their unique style since 2011. An alumni of the School of Color and Design, she is devoted to empowering women of any age to look and feel their best. Read more about Sylvia and 40+style on this page.
Want to get more articles from 40+style in your inbox, subscribe here.
You can also connect with 40+style on Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest.
Support 40+style by using the links in our articles to shop. As an associate for Amazon and many other brands, we receive a small commission (at no cost to you) on qualifying purchases which enables us to keep creating amazing free content for you. Thanks!
You’ve given me some great idea’s! Thank you!
Hello Sylvia. I have a question: I have side shoulders and narrow hips with thin legs. Unfortunately I have a “sugar belly”- you know, the above the waist tummy. I think of myself as an inverted triangular apple. What type/length of vest would be good for me? I have a long, black, sleeveless, straight one that hits just above my knee, and am wondering about it. Print or solid top? Skinny jeans or straight leg? Thanks in advance!
Hi Brenda. You may like to check out some of the articles listed on this page https://40plusstyle.com/category/how-to-dress-after-40/ on the specific body types. Also one specifically on hiding your belly: https://40plusstyle.com/how-to-hide-your-belly/
This article just inspired me to purchase a faux suede fringed long vest for my holiday trip to California. It has a boho vibe so will be perfect. Thanks for the inspiration.
Fantastic Blythe!
Sylvia is always giving us great suggestions, thank you!
Rita
No, I do not have any long vests. Not sure why – just never thought about getting one. It will be on my next shopping trip, ha! ha! I do have a couple long blazers though. I saw a long floor length beautiful sleeveless vest as part of a Halloween costume and I’ve been on the hunt for that ever since. I did find a long velvet floor length coat with a high split up the back. Still thinking about this one. I have considered removing the sleeves but I think that might remove the attitude of the coat. Ok, going shopping now!!!
Thank you Sylvia. I need to add one to my wardrobe. Love your site and the accessories course I am doing now. I am learning so much!
thanks Phillipa. That’s great to hear!
Hi Sylvia
I am wondering if you have very fleshy upper arms will the vest draw attention to them? I like this look and would wear a long or 3/4 sleeve under the vest. My preference is for the longer vest but I also don’t want to over bulk my figure. Thank you 🙂
No I don’t think so, especially if you let you sleeves finish at around your waist. A beautiful necklace or scarf will help too to divert attention away from your arms but with a nice long vest the eye is on the flattering vertical lines and noone will notice your upper arms. If you are very self conscious about your arms you could always opt for a darker top underneath the vest which would minimise it even further.
Hi sylvia i love this look but at 5foot 3inches would it suit me?
Yes, vests can be lengthening. Just be aware of your proportions and test out in the mirror which length of vest is most flattering on you.
Hi, Sylvia-I, too, have a flat bum, but it is growing ever wider as I age. Any advice? I look OK coming toward you (I have learned to camouflage my menopausal belly), but I am very self-conscious about the “going” version of me. Please help with style choices?
Jackets are always good and long vests of course. They don’t need to cover the whole bum area, just a part of it. Why not check out the blog of my friend Greetje. She is always complaining about her flat bum and you can see from her clothes choices how she deals with it http://nofearoffashion.com
Thank you Sylvia. That is a very nice compliment. I find that the best “cure” is a fitted jacket, going in at the waist and going slightly out at the hips. Of course long enough to cover the bum.
This is a really great post! Great info! I have a couple of long winter vests and you gave me some really good ideas. Your photos and outfits were awesome! TY!
Good to see you found it useful Christy!
I love long vests and I am wearing mine frequently!
Also for the office, when a blazer sometimes is a bit warm, a vest still adds a formal touch. And it is so versatile and I also pair it in a more casual way with leather leggings or jeans.
Annette | Lady of Style
Yes, and you wear them so well! You are so right about them being very useful for the office by adding a formal touch.
I don’t know why, but vests do not bring any desire to my heart. Remember I even left one that suited me fine, in the Eileen Fisher shop? I still have never used the floaty long top I bought then. No idea what to do with it. never mind, one day inspiration will come.
Well you don’t need to like everything. It’s good to know what you do and don’t like!
I love this look … trying to incorporate a few outfits with it into my rotation!
Hi Sylvia,
Love your style and inspirational ideas. Is there a way to contact you directly???
I have a contact page here https://40plusstyle.com/contact/ but please note that I don’t provide individual advice.
I have very narrow shoulders and wide hips and I don’t think I would look very good in these, though I do like them. I love the drapey one on you with the menswear inspired hat. It’s an unexpected combination.
No I did not read that! Yes I have always loved to wear scarves and have a drawer full. I will read that and thank you. It didn’t occur to me to use them in combo with a vest. Glad to know of a sister flat behindski girl. 🙂
Erin
Hello Sylvia! I have always been self-conscious of a very flat behind (“Mom, it looks like a steam roller went over it”) and struggle with very narrow shoulders. (Please God, bring back shoulder pads…..lol). I love a long vest to cover the flat behindski issue but worry about accenting the narrow shoulders. Might the answer be the garment worn below the vest? Or what do you suggest, oh wise one? BTW thank you so much for all you do. I am a big fan.
First of all I would not worry too much about the flat bum. It definitely has its advantages as we can add more bulk to that area (I have a flat bum too). As you say though long vests are great to add a bit more bulk. Did you read my article on how to dress when you have narrow shoulders? https://40plusstyle.com/how-to-dress-when-you-have-narrow-shoulders/ Some of the tops mentioned there can be used to wear underneath your vest. A scarf can be very helpful too if you drape it in a horizontal way. Good luck!