Waistcoat vs vest: What makes them different?

Are you shopping for waistcoats and vests but unsure which you should pick? Although these terms are used interchangeably and have similar characteristics, they still have subtle differences that most people easily fail to notice. 

With that said, here’s a waistcoat vs. vest guide to help you understand their distinct differences and choose the one that matches your style and wardrobe needs. 

What is a waistcoat? 

Formal waistcoat paired with a denim shirt for a modern look. (Source: iStock)

A waistcoat is a sleeveless garment with front buttons and an adjustable strap at the back. Often worn over a shirt and beneath a suit jacket, this upper-body type of garment was first introduced in the 17th century by King Charles II. The waistcoats back then were long, reaching to the knees and worn as part of a three-piece garment, trousers, and an overcoat. 

Today, modern waistcoats have become shorter and less elaborate, with most having a waist-length design. They’re more practical and easier to wear. You can even find a variety of waistcoat outfits for both men and women since there are now many types of modern waistcoats, including:

• A single-breasted waistcoat, which features one row of buttons. It’s considered less formal.

• A double-breasted waistcoat, which has two rows of buttons. This type is considered more formal.

• A horseshoe waistcoat, which is known for its low-cut neckline. It’s commonly worn with formal evening attire.

• A tweed waistcoat, which is made from tweed fabric, offers a vintage look.

What is a vest? 

Pastel blue sweater vest layered over a white shirt for a chic look. (Source: iStock)

A vest and a waistcoat are the same garment because they have similar historical roots, but the term “vest” is more common in America. It comes from the French word “veste,” which means a jacket or robe, and this terminology was created because of the strong influence of French fashion and culture in American society during the 18th and 19th centuries.

However, you won’t see using vests for strictly only formal events today. These upper-body garments evolved into a more modern design, with many types emerging, including:

• A sweater vest, which is a knitted garment without buttons; suitable for business casual settings.

• A tuxedo vest, which is colorful and decorative, worn with formal evening wear.

• A tweed vest has a casual design made from tweed, giving it a vintage or academic look.

• A woven vest is a casual, loose-fitting garment similar to a sweater vest.

Despite having different types, most of them share a similar design feature, such as a V-shaped neckline. However, since fashion has become more versatile in modern times, some vests can have other neckline styles, such as a round crew neckline, turtleneck, or wide boat neck.

Waistcoat vs. vest coat: Which one should you wear?

With the historical backgrounds of waistcoats and vests overlapping, distinguishing a waistcoat from a vest coat is now even more challenging. So, here’s a more in-depth guide to help you decide which is more suitable for your wardrobe. 

In terms of design

A collection of different styles of waistcoats and vests in yellow and peach tones. (Source: iStock)

Waistcoats appear more formal and have many decorative details, such as intricate embroidered patches and ornamental single-breasted or double-breasted buttons. Moreover, some waistcoats have lapels or folded flaps in front, making them look more formal than vests. 

You’ll also notice that most waistcoats have an adjustable back design made from a lighter material, like silk or satin. This reduces the bulk and provides comfort while wearing them under a suit jacket.

Meanwhile, vests have more apparent functional elements. They usually feature multiple pockets, while some have quilted designs for added warmth. Like waistcoats, vests can also have buttons. However, some use zippers for a more modern and functional look. 

Moreover, vests have a more versatile style compared to waistcoats, as they come in different necklines such as V-neck, collarless, and even turtleneck, catering to diverse fashion preferences.

In terms of fit and silhouette 

Since waistcoats appear more formal than vests, they have a more tailored fit. This means they’re made to fit close to your body (particularly around the torso) without feeling too tight. For instance, the neck hole of the waistcoat is designed to fit snugly at the back of the collar of your shirt, leaving no visible gaps, even when you’re moving around.  

Moreover, when tailoring a waistcoat, it should fully cover the waistband of your trousers, completely hiding the bottom of your dress shirt underneath. This gives you a more polished and formal look. 

On the other hand, vests appear more casual and loose than waistcoats. They sometimes lack zippers, buttons, or any fastening for a more relaxed fit. Moreover, unlike waistcoats, their length varies, so they create a more casual silhouette. 

In terms of formality and occasion

Elegant formal vest paired with a suit jacket, accented with a boutonniere. (Source: iStock)

Historically, waistcoats were worn by European nobility, but they’re still more suitable for formal events today. For example, you’ll often see a groom and his groomsmen wearing a tuxedo or suit with a waistcoat at a wedding. Moreover, they are typically worn in black tie events with a dinner jacket or in white tie events with a tailcoat. 

In business settings, some high-profile figures wear bespoke waistcoats made by suit tailoring experts to add a layer of elegance while attending corporate boardrooms.

Conversely, vests are less formal and ideal for casual and semi-formal events. They usually feature fewer buttons, with some vests having throw-on designs that you can effortlessly put on, so they’re suited for smart casual office environments.  

Furthermore, since their designs focus more on comfort and utility, with some having a rugged style, you may use them for hiking, camping, and other fun outdoor activities.

In terms of style

So, how to wear a waistcoat? If you’re going for a formal, traditional look, you’ll have to ensure the color and fabric of your waistcoat match your suit jacket and trousers for a more cohesive look. Your dress shirt should also be tucked in, and the tie must be worn underneath the waistcoat. Lastly, you may add accessories like tie-pins, adding more sophistication to your style. 

You can also dress down your waistcoat to achieve a more smart-casual look. For example, you could wear the waistcoat over a dress shirt without the suit jacket and match it with chinos or khakis. 

Meanwhile, vests offer more style flexibility, as they come in many colors and patterns. You can dress them up like waistcoats, in which the jacket and trousers should match the waistcoat, or dress them down by wearing the vest as a standalone piece and pairing them up with jeans. 

Another way to style a sweater vest to achieve a smart casual or preppy style is to skip the necktie and pair it up with casual loafers. Subtle accessories like wristwatches and cufflinks can also enhance the look.

In terms of fabric material

Tailor examines a textured waistcoat, showcasing fabric variety in waistcoats and vests. (Source: iStock)

As mentioned, waistcoats use more formal fabrics with intricate patterns and textures like pinstripes. Some of the most popular fabric materials for waistcoats include:

• Wool, which adds warmth; ideal for classic formal waistcoats.

• Silk, which is used for the adjustable strap at the back of the waistcoat, adding a luxurious touch.

• Brocade, which is made from a decorative fabric with intricate patterns.

• Tweed, which is a rough, woollen fabric with a vintage and textured look.

Conversely, vests use more versatile fabrics, casual patterns and textures like plaids and suede. Some of the most popular fabric materials for vests include:

• Cotton, which is a lightweight, breathable and versatile fabric, ideal for warmer climates and smart-casual looks.

• Denim, which provides a rugged look, suitable for casual wear.

• Polyester, which is made from a durable synthetic fabric; ideal for activewear.

• Leather, which offers a bold and stylish look; ideally used as a statement piece. 

• Fleece, which delivers warmth and comfort and is perfect for casual and outdoor wear.

• Knitted Fabrics, which are used in sweater vests provide warmth and are ideal for casual, preppy style.

In terms of price and value

Prices can vary depending on a waistcoat or vest's brand, material, and style. However, waistcoats are more expensive between the two because they are typically made from premium fabrics and require more detailed craftsmanship. 

The prices can even be higher if you consider the tailoring cost, which ranges from $2 - $250. Despite the added expense, it’s worth investing in a bespoke waistcoat, whether made-to-measure or tailored, because they are made with durable and quality fabrics, and have timeless style, so you can use them long-term.

Meanwhile, vests are more affordable because there are budget-friendly options with readily available mass-produced pieces. Even if you have them tailored, they’re still less expensive since they require lower-cost materials and a more straightforward construction. 

Get your waistcoat and vest perfectly fitted with Airtasker.

You could buy a waistcoat or vest off the rack, but chances are that they might fit perfectly, so they could end up being either too loose or too tight. You can have them altered for a better fit by taking them to a tailor or seamstress. 

At Airtasker, finding nearby expert suit tailors is easy—you only have to post a task with your alteration cost budget and preferred service! They have the expertise to handle almost any fabric, ensuring professional workmanship in altering your vests and waistcoats. With their help, you can now enjoy wearing clothes that flatter your body shape!