How to Dress Up a Man's Vest

Few men have mastered the art of wearing a vest without a suit. Jeans and dress slacks can all add style to a simple vest without going overboard. The key to dressing up a vest lies in the accompanying accents and how well the vest itself fits you. Most men can acquire a put-together dressy look with a vest and a few essentials and tips. You can successfully dress up a vest with style, while making it look effortless.

Instructions

1. Choose a vest that fits you well and gives the appearance of a trim waist. If you have a larger belly area, choose a vest that gives you more room and doesn't fit too snugly. If you have a well-developed abs, choose a vest that accentuates them.

2. Wear a plain black vest with a dress shirt tucked into dark jeans for a casual dressy look that appears effortless. The key to looking effortless with such a formal piece of outer wear is contrast. A white button-up shirt with a black vest and dark blue jeans comes off as crisp and put-together. For men who tire of suits for a dinner date, this is a viable option.

3. Avoid wearing printed or embellished vests with pants that bear a different design. If you choose to wear an embellished vest with embellished pants, make sure the designs match. For example: a pinstripe vest pairs best with pinstripe pants.

4. Add a pocket watch or pin. If you wear your vest with a suit, a pocket watch or similar embellishment will add a distinguished touch to your look. By adding a pin to the breast pocket of the vest, you can also pull off a formal yet stylish look.

References

• Men's vest guide