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.
How do you wear a longline vest?
In this article, you’ll find plenty of tips and outfit inspiration for wearing a longline vest as a layer. You can wear your sleeveless vests over tops and pants or skirts, or over your dresses. As a general rule, longline vests look better worn over either sleeveless or long sleeve tops. Let’s take a look.
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.
Eugenia @theeageofgrace above (read her style interview here) shows how you could wear a puffer vest, which are particularly on trend at the moment. While puffer vests can add bulk, note that she keeps hers relatively slimline.
Steal her look with this similar dress, puffer vest, boots, tights, tote and sunglasses.
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 Kivari, Norma Kamali and Amazon that you can wear with this similar 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 Sam Edelman option (below) is a stylish, smart choice. You could easily wear for work, or dressing up your jeans. Leave the buttons open or closed to create different effects.
Sam Edelman Double-Breasted Longline Vest
Boma @mrs.gaf above shows how you could wear your long vest for work.
Recreate her outfit with this similar shirt (another option here), pants, vest, pumps and handbag.
single-breasted vest
While double-breasted styles can add width, a single-breasted vest can create a more streamlined effect.
Kobi Halperin Reagan Padded Single-Breasted Vest
satin vest
If you want to wear your vest for the evening, look out for luxurious materials like silk or satin.
Kobi Halperin June Satin Longline Vest
leather vest
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.
Karen Millen Leather Sleeveless Belted Trench Coat
cargo vest
Cargo or utility style clothing is very on trend at the moment. Take a look at our round up of 2024 trends for more cargo-style dressing. Note the cargo pockets will add curves at the waist, so this is a great style for athletic figures like the rectangle or inverted triangle, but wouldn’t work so well for pear shapes.
knitted vest
An open vest works very well to streamline and slim your figure. So, if you want to look taller and slimmer, wear one ‘column’ of color underneath and then top with a different color vest. The cardigan vest (below) comes in a choice of eight colors, and reviewers say it gives a stylish and classy look.
A2Y Open Front Knitted Cardigan Vest
Nora @juststylela above (read her style interview here) shows how you can wear a vest over a pair of wide pants and a shirt. We love her chic all-neutral look – perfect if you have a classic style personality.
Get her look with this similar shirt (another option here), vest, pants, sandals, handbag, necklace, scarf and sunglasses.
asymmetric vest
Asymmetry can add interest to your outfits. The Lock and Love open front vest (below) comes in many color choices, and wearers say it is perfect for adding stylish layers without looking bulky.
Lock and Love Sleeveless Draped Open Front Cardigan
halter vest
Halter neck styles work brilliantly for rectangle and inverted triangle body shapes. You could wear this over any style of pants or your favorite jeans for a night out.
French Connection Harry Halterneck Waistcoat
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.
duster 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.
Simply Ravishing Full Length Duster
Co-ordinated sets are very much on trend at the moment, so choosing a vest and matching pants is a great idea this season. Sharryn @thestylishwoman above (read her style interview here) shows off a perfect look for vacations.
Check out this similar tank top, duster, pants, sneakers, woven tote, earrings, necklace, belt and sunglasses.
printed vest
Big floral patterns are one of the major trends for 2024. Keep the rest of your look neutral.
Kobi Halperin Georgia Floral Long Vest
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.
puffer vest
You can wear long vests during any season. For instance, the crochet vest above for summer, and the puffer vest below for cooler weather.
belted vest coords
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.
PRETTYGARDEN Vest And Wide Leg Pant Set
Beth @styleatacertainage below (read her style interview here) looks beautiful in her co-ordinated set, which would be perfect for any summer events you have coming up.
She is wearing a vest (another option here) and pants from Talbots (similar set here). Check out this similar pair of sandals, earrings and sunglasses to complete the look.
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.
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. Or opt for an asymmetric option that creates interesting lines.
Lock and Love Sleeveless Draped Open Front Cardigan – Another Tomorrow Sleeveless T-Shirt Dress – Lucky Brand Mofira Peep Toe Booties – Tory Burch Fleming Soft Bucket Bag – ZENZII Chunky Matte Beaded Collar Necklace – ZENZII Beaded Hoop 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. Leave your vest open.
French Connection Harry Halterneck Waistcoat – Proenza Schouler White Label Finley Stripe Tie-Dye T-Shirt – FRAME Pleated Cotton-Linen Shorts – EuroSoft Gionna Sandals – Tory Burch Crochet Raffia Large Tote – Kendra Scott Chandlier Huggie Earrings
with your favorite jeans
Your jeans are such a versatile part of your wardrobe, that you can wear them with anything, including a long vest.
Kobi Halperin Reagan Padded Single-Breasted Vest – Proenza Schouler White Label Finley Stripe Tie-Dye T-Shirt – MOTHER The Insider Flood Jeans – Lucky Brand Mofira Peep Toe Booties – Tory Burch Fleming Soft Bucket Bag – Dean Davidson Nomad Drop Earrings
Fonda @savvysouthernchic above shows how you could wear a long vest to update a simple outfit of jeans and a white shirt.
Recreate her outfit with this similar shirt, trench vest (another option here), jeans, flats and tote.
With a tunic top and pants
For extra coverage if you have a tank top or a tunic, you can always pop a long vest over the top. Dress up with a clutch bag and heels.
Sam Edelman Double-Breasted Longline Vest – rag & bone Holland Linen-Blend Tunic – J.Crew Kate Linen Blend Straight Leg Pants – Vagabond Shoemakers Lykke Leather Slingback Pumps – Lilly Pulitzer Benton Clutch – Kendra Scott Chandlier Huggie Earrings
with leather pants
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.
Karen Millen Leather Sleeveless Belted Trench Coat – J.Crew Wren Cotton Poplin Shirt – Karen Millen Leather Straight Leg Pants – Vagabond Shoemakers Lykke Leather Slingback Pumps – Marc Jacobs The St. Marc Mini Top Handle Bag – Kendra Scott Chandlier Huggie Earrings
With a blouse
Wear your vest over any of your long sleeve blouses. If your blouse has details on the arms, then a vest is perfect over a blazer as you can show those details off.
Kobi Halperin June Satin Longline Vest – Karen Millen Cutwork Twill Button Through Woven Shirt – J.Crew Kate Linen Blend Straight Leg Pants – Vagabond Shoemakers Lykke Leather Slingback Pumps – Lilly Pulitzer Benton Clutch – Kendra Scott Chandlier Huggie Earrings
Combine with a jumpsuit
To add interest to a jumpsuit, you could slip a vest over the top. The look below picks up the red color of the jumpsuit in the print.
Kobi Halperin Georgia Floral Long Vest – Karen Millen Premium Linen Utility Belted Woven Jumpsuit – Vagabond Shoemakers Lykke Leather Slingback Pumps – Tory Burch Crochet Raffia Large Tote – ZENZII Beaded Hoop Earrings
similar jumpsuit, vest, pumps, tote, necklace and sunglasses
As a swimsuit cover up
A long crochet vest can also make the perfect swimsuit cover-up on the beach.
GLEAMISS Crochet Lace Vest – Lilly Pulitzer Kailanie One-Piece Swimsuit – EuroSoft Gionna Sandals – Tory Burch Crochet Raffia Large Tote – Dean Davidson Nomad Drop Earring
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.
A2Y Open Front Knitted Cardigan Vest – Eileen Fisher Linen & Cotton Crewneck Sweater – MOTHER The Insider Flood Jeans – Reebok Lifestyle Classic Nylon Sneakers – Tory Burch Fleming Soft Bucket Bag – Dean Davidson Nomad Drop Earrings
What do you wear under a long puffer vest?
Long puffer vests have been particularly on trend for a few seasons now, and are great for adding warmth if it’s still cool where you are. But, because puffer vests do add bulk, it’s best to keep the top you wear underneath relatively slimline.
How do you wear an oversized vest?
If the vest you have chosen is an oversized one, then keep the rest of your look streamlined so as to avoid adding extra bulk.
How do you wear a long vest in the winter?
A long vest can be enough of a layer to keep you warm in the cooler months. Choose a puffer vest or one made of warm material like wool. Then, add to your jeans, sweater and boots.
vests capsule wardrobe
Below, you can see the outfits from above together in one capsule. You could easily mix and match the vests around to create lots of different looks.
Shop the pieces above here:
Below, you can see an earlier capsule. While many of these items are past season, it should still give you extra inspiration.
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?
Continue reading:
- 14 Sure-Fire Ways To Hide Your Belly With The Right Clothes
- How To Look Taller And Slimmer
- How To Layer Clothes Like A Pro
Like this article on how to wear a long vest? Share it on Pinterest!
Feature image by Rita @ritapalazzi
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.
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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!