Are you one of the people who think gilets have a “bee costume” effect that make you seem like a balloon, or they are just an unnecessary load to lift during the day? The thickness-puffiness and size are the key points about a gilet; and no matter your proportion, a thick, oversized, long gilet is going to result in a South Park character look. But slim, light, sporty nylon gilets or tweed – herringbone textured sartorial ones may change your prejudice. When it comes to functionality, you do not need heavy, thick gilets to get warm after new generation fabrics.
Brands have launched various models and have shown us that gilets are not only related to sportswear anymore, they are now key smart-casual pieces. You can wear a solid colored, simple gilet in or on your blazer and still have an elegant look. We have even seen gilets used as a waistcoat of a three-piece suit.
If you are thinking about getting a gilet these days, a great jumping in point is in the traditional zone and go for heritage types. Quilted or ribbed models made of any waterproof fabrics are naturally sporty. You can use them both for sports and as casual outerwear. Multicolored or patterned gilets are other alternatives, but remember any pattern on a polyester fabric can be too much for the eyes. No need to talk about eye-catching neon colors… it is better to stay away from them.
For a sporty but still elegant look; tweed, twill, or herringbone textured pieces are the sartorial alternatives. Wool, cotton, or waxed canvas gilets with contrasting suede leather shoulder yokes have a characteristically strong look. I would recommend simply designed, slim, light models made of tweed or herringbone fabrics. Reversible designs or the models with a removable hat can be preferred if you like variety.
We are talking about a piece, which is mentioned as perfect for layering so you can easily formulate some basic sporty or elegant looks, both for daily life and for work. You are guaranteed the result as long as you pay attention to colors, the harmony of fabrics, and the fit. Dark grey, blue, black, and olive colors are easy to use with other different colors or shades while layering.
You can wear your gilet simply over a shirt or with sweaters (light or knitted cardigans, or sweatshirts for layering between shirts and gilets). This look can be completed with a simple jeans or chino pants. I would recommend non or less washed, non-ripped, and less distressed denims. Sweatpants can be comfortable choices for sporty days.
I don’t think two sleeveless pieces look nice together but a gilet on a t-shirt is also possible. You can wear a cardigan or a denim jacket over your t-shirt to have a three-piece look on top.
Gilets can also be worn with suits. I prefer slim, light ones for layering in your suit jackets to have a casual three-piece look. Relatively, puffed gilets are better options to wear over suits.
You can show off your accessories on your gilet as well. Previous images of Pitti Uomo have shown us that it is common among gents to use pocket squares. Gloves and glasses were mostly in pockets.
All in all, gilets are practical. They are also survivors for “wear and go” situations, especially during transition months when there is a high temperature variation during the day. They make the look sportier and can be used to add more colors to outfits. It is true that oversize and extremely puffy gilets will result in bigger silhouettes while layering, but with the right choices this disadvantage can be reversed and gilets can be perfectly used to hide your excesses.
*Read more about how to wear gilets with a suit in M. Zafer’s “Tips to Spice up your Everyday Work Suit“!
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