The backwards racer vest: how to nail one of this season’s biggest fashion trends

Racerback vests are summer's big style hit

Credit: Getty Images

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The backwards racer vest: how to nail one of this season’s biggest fashion trends

By Harriet Davey

4 years ago

Make the backwards racer vest (yes, it is a thing, we promise) the starting point for all of your outfits this summer. 

Whether you’re an avid gym goer or not, we predict you will already be familiar with the classic racerback vest (think straps that meet high on the back, in that lightweight material that’s quickly become synonymous with athleisure wear). 

Now, the typically sporty style has had a resurgence in the fashion world once again. This season, however, it’s the backwards racer style that’s getting all the love – which basically means the wide straps that usually go in at the back to create that racerback look are now at the front, too. 

We know what you’re thinking: it’s a logistical nightmare when it comes to bra straps. However, we ask that you hear us out…

Street style racer vest

Credit: Street style racer vest

The trend first started when minimalist fashion editors and influencers began bringing the wardrobe basic to the forefront of their spring wardrobe, pairing it with wide leg trousers, midi skirts or jeans

So, we hear you ask, why is the backwards racer top a trend to try out this spring? Well, we’ve come up with three solid points.

 1) Like a T-shirt or an average vest, the backwards racer top is one of those items you know will never let you down. Because, no matter what you team it with, it’ll always work. From wide leg jeans and Teva sandals to a leather midi skirt and mules – throw it on anytime, and go.

2) The backwards racer top is available from pretty much every fashion outlet, from high street to designer, which means you can nab one no matter what budget you’re working towards. 

3) The backwards racer top is perfect for layering, so you can take yours from spring to autumn in an instant by teaming it with a trench coat, utility jacket or even a puff-sleeve organza top like influencer Rikke (as seen below). And, when it gets really chilly, you can wear yours underneath boiler suits and shirts, too. 

Essentially, what we’re saying is that you’ll end up making the back-to-front top you never knew you needed (until now) work hard for you from here on out.

Of course, it’s best to get your racer in a neutral hue that’ll work across all seasons, mixing with other simple separated and keep the look tonal for a minimal vibe. 

And when it comes to the eternal bra strap question? Well, opt for a strapless bra or make like minimalist maven Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and go braless. The world is your oyster at this point. 

Feeling tempted? These are our favourite racerback vests to buy now and love forever.


Free People high neck ribbed tank top

Free People high neck ribbed tank top

This fine-rib racer tank top strikes the perfect balance between sporty and slinky. Available in white and powder blue, we can see ourselves wearing this effortlessly easy-to-wear piece on heavy rotation for years to come. 

Shop Free People high neck ribbed tank top at Asos, £18

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Cotton On racerback vest

Cotton On racerback vest

For those searching for a minimalistic vest, look to Cotton On’s simple and straightforward offering, which is available in five sleek colourways.

Shop Cotton On racerback vest, £9

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& Other Stories fitted cropped tank top

& Other Stories fitted cropped tank top

While we usually go to & Other Stories for dreamy dresses, statement arm-candy and killer shoes, this time it’s for basics, in the form of this creamy-hued tank top. 

Team with a leopard print midi skirt and strappy mules for evening.

Shop & Other Stories fitted cropped tank top, £45

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Image of Goldsign vest

Goldsign ribbed stretch-jersey tank

It may be on the pricey side, but you know how much you wear your favourite black dress or T-shirt? You’ll wear this just as much. If you calculate the cost-per-wear it’ll end up being pennies. 

Shop Goldsign ribbed stretch-jersey tank at Net-A-Porter, £190

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Image of Zara top

Zara halterneck bodysuit

This is the exact racer body supermodel Rosie Huntington-Whiteley has got in all three colours. Not only does she have the £12.99 bargain body in all hues, but she’s already shown us seven ways to wear it on her Instagram.

Sold? Us too. 

Shop Zara halterneck bodysuit, £12.99

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Images: Getty / Instagram 

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