Let’s talk Vests on Vienna Lane

By Shannon Bussnick, LSW

As the calendar pages turn, marking the retreat of winter’s chill in favor of longer, sun-drenched days, our wardrobes call for versatile pieces that adapt with ease.

The vest is a cornerstone of transitional dressing, alongside our favorite light-weight trench (look out for this segment soon!), guiding us through the flux of cool and warm temps like no other.

Because who really wants to sacrifice those sacred ten minutes post-shower, where we sip our cold brew in utter delight, stressing over how to dress? Not me.

Here, we showcase how the vest can become a safe, yet undeniably intriguing, go-to-piece for style and practicality—because it can do both, seamlessly. So much that I feel inspired even discussing its limitless versatility.

Let’s talk vests on Vienna Lane, shall we?

Five Fast Ways to Style Vests

1. Sporty, On the Go: Pair with sneakers or loafers

For those action-packed days filled with errands and playdates, just go ahead and reach for a vest. Pairing a lightweight, utility vest or puffer with leggings and sneakers, or cargos and penny’s, spells comfort while adding an edge. It’s the ideal ensemble for moms on the move with kids (or without) offering serious freedom.

2. Instant Elegance: Add Dimension to Skirts and Dresses

Transform your look in literally seconds by layering a sleek, silk or suede vest over a skirt or dress (bonus points for a piece that’s flower-embossed, or slightly texturized).

This combination elevates your outfit, making it suitable for dinner out or important meetings. It’s a simple yet powerful choice for when time is short, but making a memorable impression is key.

The sultry combination exudes some mystery, sensuality, and the fun, multifaceted energy that we love—the kind that ignites your soul, and the room. It’s a no-brainer, 10/10.

3. Warmth and Style: Thrown over Sweaters and Hoodies

Layering becomes essential with the unpredictable weather and the demands of little ones in tow. One minute we’re freezing at morning drop-off and then sweating at 3pm on the playground. Layering a vest over a cozy sweater, tee, or hoodie adds warmth and versatility without compromising style.

Choosing a vest in a neutral shade allows for effortless matching with your existing pieces, making layering easy and practical. Not to mention, dressing in layers is one of the biggest sanity-savers, equipping you for morning and night with only one hanger snag.

4. From Day to Night: Embracing Neutrals and Textures

A vest can seamlessly transition from a productive coffee shop work session to an evening out.

A daytime look might feature a nude, linen vest for a soft, approachable look, while evening outings might call for something bolder, like a leather or double-breasted vest. These pieces are versatile, transforming your look with their adaptability.

Try balancing a softer piece to be the focus during the day and a bolder piece to draw in the evening—you’ll be likely to create a combination you feel relaxed but alive in.

5. Experiment with Prints, Colors, and Textures: The Eclectic, Mood Fit

Vests come in a wide array of prints, textures, and fabrics, from the sophistication of pinstripes to the casual cool of denim and the luxury of silk. Each choice offers an opportunity to experiment with your style, whether you aim for subtlety or a bold statement. Or the perfect pairing of both.

Why not treat the vest like your well-loved mood ring from the 90’s? Feeling a bit, meh? Reach for something comfortable on your skin and that won’t disrupt your routine. Edging on some serious creativity? Reach for the flower-embossed, abstract, or colored pin-stripe.

Don’t be afraid to go in the opposite direction, either, as style knows no bounds. Fashion has a way of uplifting and inspiring, even on the most extreme off days. Seasonal drops also introduce fresh fabrics and bold designs, letting you instantly update your look to suit new aspirations and opportunities. And trust us, don’t underestimate the beauty of a golden thrift-find.

With the changing season at our door, enjoy making changes to your wardrobe and vest line-up whenever you see fit. Just try not to look back through your spring-cleaning donation pile—you second-guessed it for a reason, right!?

Why We Love the Vest

There’s something inherently chic and effortless about a well-styled vest. It reflects a confident, active lifestyle where style meets functionality. Vests provide an easy, stylish solution, perfectly suited to the multifaceted roles you sift through every day.

So, it’s a no-brainer for us, embrace the vest—neutrals, prints and bolds, upon silk, linen, cotton, or leather—as this statement piece is here to make every outfit uniquely yours.

Hyping up the vest for Spring:

https://www.vogue.com/article/suit-vest-outfits

https://www.refinery29.com/en-gb/how-to-style-vests