This article is part of our Summer Style Guide series. Head here for more.
A global heatwave is currently scorching the planet – today, the UK’s all-time temperature record could be broken with scalding temperatures of up to 37C. Naturally, when it comes to getting dressed in the morning, this poses a challenge: how can you wear as little as humanly possible but still look appropriate to walk out the door? Well, the vest is a surefire way to stay cool. Sure, it has slovenly connotations, but it doesn’t have to be that way – here are seven simple tips for wearing a vest.
1. Don’t be afraid of a printed vest
First off, your vest doesn’t have to be white, or indeed any plain colour. Opt for a striped vest or, if you’re feeling adventurous, a patterned one – like this beaded number by Raf Simons.
Model wears vest by Raf SimonsPhotography Benjamin Huseby, Styling Alister Mackie; Taken from the A/W14 issue of Another Man
2. Double it up
Another way to style a vest is to double it up. Wear a simple, more tight-fitting one underneath and another more loose-fitting (and perhaps more vibrant) one on top. Try playing with different fabrics too – a simple but clever way to make your look more interesting.
Model wears striped knitted vest by Gucci, Jersey vest by Raf SimonsPhotography Ben Toms, Styling Robbie Spencer; Taken from the A/W15 issue of Another Man
3. Add a necklace
Add further interest by wearing your vest with a necklace – a simple gold or silver chain works well, or a longer beaded number like the one in this photo. Any will do.
Model wears vest by Dsquared2Photography Max von Gumppenberg & Patrick Bienert, Styling Ellie Grace Cumming; Taken from the S/S18 issue of Another Man
4. Pair it with a tailored trouser...
An easy way to elevate your look (while keeping your arms cool) is pairing your vest with some smart trousers. Jeans and tracksuit bottoms always make things look casual but a crisp pair of tailored trousers always smartens them up. Tuck in your vest, add a nice belt and away you go...
Tom Holland wears vest from Cassie MercantilePhotography Venetia Scott, Styling Alister Mackie; Taken from the A/W15 issue of Another Man
5. Or even a printed trouser…
For a nice, more casual summer look, pair your vest with some printed trousers, like this floral crépe pair by Gucci.
Model wears vest by BalenciagaPhotography Benjamin Huseby, Styling Mattias Karlsson
Wear it under a jacket
Ok, so maybe this one isn’t for the 37C heat, but if it’s a bit cooler or you’re going out in the evening, layer your vest under a shirt or jacket. You could opt for a vintage military jacket like Harry here, or something simpler like a tailored suit jacket or a bomber.
Harry Styles wears vest by Calvin KleinPhotography Alasdair McLellan, Styling Alister Mackie; Taken from the A/W16 issue of Another Man
Match it with some leather or PVC
This one really isn’t for 37C heat, but if you’re going out-out and fancy something more sexy, try matching your vest with some leather or PVC trousers. Go on, we dare you.
Model wears vest by Stone IslandPhotography Collier Schorr, Styling Robbie Spencer; Taken from the S/S16 issue of Another Man
