• Bring your look together: The extra layer of a waistcoat helps to balance out your outfit, adding depth and texture. 

• Flatters your shape: Men’s waistcoats make you look good. They streamline your waist, emphasise the chest and – when worn without a jacket – can also highlight your arms. 

• Streamlines your midsection: That awkward bit where your shirt tucks into your trousers? A waistcoat covers it up, making your outfit look more seamless.

• Practical benefits: When worn under a suit jacket, a waistcoat adds extra warmth on colder days and keeps your core comfortable in spring or on cool summer evenings without the need for extra layers.

SINGLE BREASTED

Like a single-breasted jacket, this type features a single row of buttons and minimal overlap. Super versatile, it looks smart in most settings but won’t offer you much structure or warmth.

DOUBLE BREASTED

Similar to their jacket counterparts, double-breasted waistcoats have two rows of buttons. The overlapping layer of material creates a more formal, structured look - and will definitely keep you warm.

HORSESHOE CUT

This style is mostly found on dress suits and tuxedo waistcoats. Instead of the usual V shape, it features a rounded U shape on the chest – which lets your dress shirt or bib front (the pleated panel found on some formal shirts) take centre stage.

TEXTURES AND FABRIC CHOICES

Waistcoats come in a wide range of fabrics. For a more traditional country look, then a herringbone or tweed jacket and waistcoat is a classic. Linen waistcoats are breathable and lightweight, making them ideal in summer. Meanwhile, wool is better for cold weather. You can also find waistcoats made from synthetic fibres, which are breathable and offer a bit of stretch.

When we think of waistcoats, we generally associate them with formal attire and events. We’re talking weddings, religious ceremonies (like baptisms), black-tie moments, office parties, or sports events such as horse racing – a waistcoat is a go-to for any of these occasions.

They’re obviously a no-brainer if you work in a traditional office. A smart outfit with a waistcoat tells customers, colleagues, and hiring managers at job interviews that you mean business – sharp, professional, and stylish.

But casual waistcoats for men can also be a great option in certain situations. Dressing to impress on date night? A waistcoat will have you looking sharp without trying too hard. Garden parties, trips to gastropubs, country fairs and other smart-casual occasions are also perfect times to slip one on.

Men’s waistcoats are designed to fit close to your body and sit comfortably beneath a jacket. However, they shouldn’t be tight – if a waistcoat restricts your movement or makes it difficult to breathe, it’s a touch too small.

Most waistcoats have an adjustable strap at the back that lets you tighten it for the right fit. Just make sure you don’t overtighten – if it’s too tight, the front of your waistcoat can end up looking rumpled.

The bottom of the waistcoat should sit neatly around your hips and waist. It shouldn’t hang below the top of your trousers, and it certainly shouldn’t cover your pockets. At the same time, it shouldn’t reveal any of your shirt above the trouser line.

Over your shoulders, you’re looking for the waistcoat to lie flat, and the straps shouldn’t lift too much when you raise your arms.

If you’re buying a waistcoat online and aren’t sure of your size, take a moment to measure your chest (it’s easier if you can get someone to help, but you can also do it alone).

Grab a tape measure and stand upright with your arms by your side. Next, wrap the tape measure around the fullest part of your chest and under your arms. Use a mirror to ensure the tape is flat and straight. 

If you’re wearing your waistcoat as part of a three-piece suit, check out our suit fitting guide for extra tips on measuring your waist, shoulders, and overall fit so your outfit looks sharp from every angle.

• Leave the bottom button undone: This convention has been around for centuries and is said to follow how Edward VII wore his waistcoats. Whatever the reason, it’s stuck and is now seen as the ‘correct’ way of wearing them.

• Keep buttons fastened (except bottom one): An undone waistcoat can slip out of place and may even hang below your suit jacket. But if you’re hitting the dance floor at the end of the wedding reception, by all means loosen those buttons!

• Tuck your shirt in: Shirt fabric dangling below your waistcoat just looks messy – make sure everything is neatly tucked away for a clean finish.

• Don’t wear a belt: A waistcoat is meant to create a smooth line between your top half and trousers. If a belt buckle is on show, this disrupts the look – either tighten your trousers with the side adjusters or wear braces.

• Leave the buttons done up: An undone waistcoat can slip out of place and may even hang below your suit jacket. But if you’re hitting the dance floor at the end of the wedding reception, by all means loosen those buttons!

We’ve handpicked a wide range of quality men’s waistcoats to suit whatever you’re doing. Whether it’s date night, a formal event, that promotion interview, or something else, our range makes it simple to find the right waistcoat, exactly when you need it.