Women's Fashion Borrows a Classic Male Garment

Wives may be raiding their husband's closet this fall. The menswear-inspired vest tops the list of fashion must-haves this season.

"The vest trend is huge," said Suzanne Bishop, owner of Frankie & Julian's fashion boutique in Chattanooga, Tenn. "The men trend is carrying over to the popular boyfriend jeans, boyfriend blazer and boyfriend cardigan. It's the biggest push for fall."

Bruce Baird, owner of Bruce Baird & Co., a men's fashion store, said men's vests will always be a go-to piece.

"Vests will be stronger in certain times, but (the look) truly never goes out of style," he said. "The classic three-piece suit will always be around."

This fall, the "odd" vest, one that's not part of a three-piece suit, will be a key fashion piece for men, Mr. Baird said, noting that suede and flannel will be the fabrics of choice.

"Anytime times are tough, people go classic," he said. "I think that's because when money is tight, people would rather have something that goes from year to year rather than something that will last just one season. It makes sense that the vest is popular now because it is a classic piece."

According to the Web site fashionwindows.net, the vest offers a tailored look that can turn the wearer into a rocker or a prepster, depending on whether it's paired with a casual tee or a button-up blouse.

"Avoid tucking in your shirt because of the homely connotation it portrays, unless the bottom layer is fitted and the vest is the focal point," the Web site noted. "There are so many approaches in proclaiming this trend; decide which slant you will take to fit it into your personal style."

Ms. Bishop said vests are not only ideal for fall layering, but women like them for another reason.

"Vests look good on all body types," she said.

Tips on Wearing Vests

1. When the weather is warm, pair cotton vests with a plain tank top or camisole. Wear the top untucked.
2. Wear a vest over a dress, whether sleeveless or not. 
3. Vests look great worn over shirts and blouses, tucked in or not. 
4. The black, menswear-inspired tailored vest is ideal for professional wear. 
5. Wear alone with dress or flared pants.

Source: www.thechicfashionista.com