This retro knitwear style can be a tricky one to get right – these are the best ones to shop and ways to style them.
What are your initial thoughts when you read the words ‘knitted vest’? Is it the v-neck version you’ll most likely find in the depths of the menswear section at Marks and Spencer? Or, do you automatically associate it with Chandler Bing’s go-to outfit for the majority of the first few seasons of Friends? Either way, we can imagine it doesn’t usually rank high up on the wish list. Until now, that is.
Designers such as Dior and Prada sent the knit sweater vest down the a/w 2020 runway worn over shirts and a tie in true preppy fashion. Like with most micro trends, the high street is quick to cotton on and follow suit. Now, go-to high street brands such as Cos, Arket and Zara all have versions of the sleeveless knitwear style, as do the cult Scandi brands including Samsøe and Samsøe and Baum und Pferdgarten. The retro style has made a comeback and there are so many ways to wear them this season.
Credit: Fashion with Aya
Fashion influencer Aya tries out the vest and shirt combo as seen on the catwalks with a classic beige style over a timeless striped shirt. Proving it’s the ideal separate to use as a layering tool this season, this is an easy way to look effortless for autumn.
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The style set are also looking to statement styles to wear on their own just like influencer Michelle (above) and are wearing a knit style to replace the backwards racer vest top which ruled summer. We’ve found this exact style for you to shop below, along with our pick of some of our other favourite knit vests.
Whether you go for a tighter fitting or oversized style, high neck or v-neck, or choose to wear it on its own or layered – this is the knit to try out this season, trust us. Shop the best styles now.
Shop best knit vests
Cos V-neck vest
This collared version from Cos is the perfect addition to your knitwear collection. Add it over a roll neck knit with wide leg trousers and white trainers for a fail-safe winter look that’ll see you through the entire season.
Monki vest
The universally flattering v-neck style with side splits in XXS-XL is a go-to if you want to ease yourself into the trend. Wear this classic black version over a white T-shirt with mom jeans and trainers.
Baum und Pferdgarten Fair Isle vest
Spotted on our Instagram feeds, this is the vest that’s already making waves amongst the fashion influencers. Imagine it in winter, layered over a roll neck with straight leg jeans and stomper boots.
Shop Baum und Pferdgarten Coleen Faroe vest at The Corner, £109
Vila vest with collar
The oversized collar is a mini trend of its own – add this to the knit vest and you basically get a two-for-one buy. This khaki colour will look so good with dusty pink and tan shades so choose your accessories wisely.
Samsøe & Samsøe cream vest
Basically a roll neck knit without the sleeves, this 100% wool style from Scandi brand Samsøe & Samsøe will become one of your wardrobe staples this season. Style with a white shirt underneath, leather trousers and chunky Chelsea boots.
Shop Samsøe & Samsøe Amary high-neck wool vest at Atterley, £110
London Cashmere Co. vest
Investing in cashmere knitwear is always a good idea if you want them to last. This simple knit also comes in cream, navy and grey but we’re big fans of this blue shade to brighten up dull winter days.
Zara ruffle vest
To take the simple knit up a notch, look to Zara’s contrast stitch, ruffle number. Try adding this one over all your printed midi dresses and add fail-safe ankle boots. You can also get a similar style in a mustard shade, too.
Arket knitted vest
On paper a grey knitted vest may not sound that appealing but in reality it can be a winner. Team it with leather trousers, heeled boots and add it over a printed long sleeve top for a splash of colour.
Retro Rhapsody striped vest
The perfect place to find these retro knits is online vintage stores at the likes of Etsy, Ebay and Depop. This striped version will be a go to with high-waist trousers, a square buckle belt and brogues for an alternative work outfit.
Shop Retro Rhapsody vintage 90s striped vest. £69.22 at Etsy
Aligne cream vest
We love a new sustainable brand and Aligne is a winner. Launching this summer, its knitwear is high up on the autumn wish list – just take a look at this sleek vest that’s made from 65% recycled yarn. We’ve already spotted influencers wearing this key style on Instagram.
Opening image: Getty
All other images: courtesy of brands
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