Pretty much everything in fashion comes back around. A case in point is the sweater vest. It is back. Strangely, we have Tik Tok to thank for this returning trend. The fashion girls there are adorable and can make anything look cute. But a sweater vest can also be incorporated into a mature women’s wardrobe with ease.
Vest Trend for 50+
Even though I am drawn to the darling crochet sweater vests or the bold, wild prints, I know the best way to get in on this trend at 50+ is to keep it simple. That means opting for a sweater vest that matches my existing wardrobe. I opted for a black vest and a taupe vest from Zara. Of course, if one of the more trendy options fits your style, go for it.
My recommendation for fitting in any new trend is to find the piece that seamlessly works with the rest of your wardrobe. This way, you will get the most use of it before the trend is over.
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How To Wear a Sweater Vest
Outfit #1: Sweater Vest + Faux Leather Leggings + Belt
This outfit combination is giving me Tess from Working Girl vibes. “I have a head for business and a bod for sin. Anything wrong with that?” Of course, nothing is wrong with that. The faux leather pants are sexy, but the vest & button-up shirt make this outfit appropriate for every day.
I added a belt to sinch in the bulk of this vest. Depending on your mood and daily schedule, you can wear this outfit with flats, boots, or sneakers. Add a coat or blazer for added warmth. The faux leather pants and this blazer keep you warm enough for most indoor climates.
My leggings are the Commando Faux Leather Legging, and I find they look the most like genuine leather of the faux leather leggings out there.
Quick Note: Yes, my hair dramatically changes in this post. It doesn’t mean the pictures were taken many months apart. It means I opted for extensions in the middle of writing this post. With my patience for upkeep waning, you may see me in a dramatically shorter style soon.
Outfit #2: Sweater Vest + White Shirt + Pleated Skirt
I swapped my faux leather leggings for a pleather pleated skirt. Pleather = Faux Leather. I just like to sound of the alliteration. The skirt is the Sanctuary Pleated Faux Leather Skirt. I am wearing a large, but I need a medium. The skirt is lightweight, so perfect for the spring transition.
I added a pair of tall boots for a little extra warmth, and if I didn’t live in CA, I would wear tights. Given my extra white legs, I probably should have added tights. This outfit has the collegiate schoolgirl vibe that is very on-trend.
Outfit #3: Sweater Vest + T-Shirt + Midi Skirt
One of my favorite fashion items of the last few years is the elastic waist satin slip skirt. I love that such a simple piece can elevate an outfit so dramatically. Plus, it is crazy comfortable and easy to wear. I picked this leopard one up from J.Crew a couple of years ago. J.Crew still offers the skirt in several beautiful plain colors. They are currently on sale, but that seems to change constantly. I plan to pick up one of the vibrant colors, another hot trend for spring.
A white tee and a sweater vest are a classic combo dating back to the 1950s. The look still works today. The vest and tee paired with the slip skirt has a modern, classic vibe.
Outfit #4: Sweater Vest + White Shirt + Oversized Blazer + Jeans
This outfit is probably the most common way I wear a sweater vest. Add an oversized blazer to your white shirt and sweater vest combo. Opt for a white tee instead if you want less going on around the neck. The whole look is stolen from the boys or slightly preppy.
To keep the look modern choose an oversized blazer instead of a more fitted option. Instead of traditional loafers, wear chunky loafers, a returning trend for spring. My loafers are from Vagabond Shoemakers. I am a massive fan of the brand. Their shoes look designer without the designer prices.
Outfit #5: Sweater Vest + T-Shirt + Satin Pants
Mix up the boyish look of the vest with a flowy pair of satin pants. My favorite outfits always combine opposing pieces. The sweater vest & tee bring masculine energy, while the satin pants bring a feminine quality. The push & pull of these pieces make the outfit work.
I added a pair of western-inspired pointy toe boots for cooler weather, but you could easily add sandals or sneakers to this combo, depending on your need. My pants are from Vince, and I picked them up at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.
Bonus Outfit: Sweater Vest + Shirt Dress + Boots
I am not much of a dress person. However, I love a good shirt dress or t-shirt dress. The shirtdress is by Frank & Eileen. My exact wash is no longer available, but I love this darker wash available at Revolve. I opted for a belt because of the bulk of the vest. You can also hide the belt and use it to crop or “tuck” the vest. The dress would also look great with a cropped vest or button-up vest.
Add your favorite boots while it is still chilly, or opt for sandals or loafers in the spring. I will be wearing this outfit on repeat in the spring.
Sweater vests are the perfect transition piece. As the temps begin to remind us that warmer weather will eventually return, a sweater vest can work as a great layering item for the in-between times. A vest has a preppy vibe but works for those of us who enjoy classics with an edge. It is all in the styling.
I would love it if you followed me on Instagram for my everyday outfits or on Pinterest for my fashion inspiration. StyleDahlia is a fashion and lifestyle website with a modern take on midlife. We hope to inspire you to step out of your comfort zone, try new things, and live your life in full bloom.
