Women's Vests

Discover Women's Vest & Waistcoat

When it comes to women’s fashion, few pieces are as timeless and versatile as the vest and waistcoat. Whether you're dressing up for a formal event, layering for warmth in colder months, or looking to add a dash of elegance to your everyday look, David Jones is the ultimate destination for vests in Australia. Our selection features brands from Saba and Witchery to Seed Heritage and Camilla & Marc.

What is the Difference Between a Women's Vest and Waistcoat?

Before diving into styling tips and outfit ideas, it’s important to understand the distinction between vests and waistcoats, as the terms are often used interchangeably, but they do have subtle differences.

Women's Vest

Typically, a vest refers to a sleeveless garment, often designed to be worn over a shirt, blouse, or dress. It is often more casual, offering a relaxed fit and lightweight feel. Vests can be made from a variety of fabrics such as cotton, linen, wool, or leather, making them perfect for both warm and cool weather.

Women's Waistcoat

A waistcoat, on the other hand, is a more formal piece of clothing that is part of a traditional three-piece suit. It usually fits snugly around the torso and is often crafted from fine materials such as wool or tweed. Waistcoats are often worn in more polished, professional, or semi-formal settings but can easily be dressed down for a smart-casual look.

Explore Our Range of Women’s Vest & Waistcoat

• Tailored Waistcoats: Tailored waistcoats are the epitome of sophistication. These are often made from structured fabrics like wool or tweed and feature a sharp, form-fitting cut. They are perfect for formal settings such as business meetings, weddings, or special occasions. The tailored waistcoat can be worn with a matching suit or styled individually for a chic, fashion-forward look.
• Casual Vests: Casual vests are versatile and easy to incorporate into everyday outfits. Made from comfortable fabrics like cotton or linen, these vests offer a more relaxed fit and can be layered over t-shirts, long-sleeve tops, or even dresses. Whether you’re running errands, going for brunch, or hanging out with friends, a casual vest provides an effortless way to add style to your outfit.
• Statement Vests: For those who want to make a bold fashion statement, statement vests are the perfect option. These vests often feature unique designs, vibrant colours, embroidery, or embellishments that can elevate any outfit. Whether it’s a colourful vest for summer or a faux fur option for winter, statement vests give you the opportunity to experiment with different textures, prints, and styles.
• Denim Vests: Denim vests are an iconic wardrobe staple. Combining the laid-back vibe of denim with the structured fit of a vest, this piece can be worn in a variety of ways. Pair it with a graphic tee for a casual street style look, or layer it over a summer dress for added edge. Denim vests are ideal for casual outings and can be dressed up or down depending on your style.
• Faux Fur Vest: When the weather turns cold, faux fur vests are an ideal choice for adding warmth without sacrificing style. These vests can be worn over a blouse or sweater, creating an ultra-luxe appearance while keeping you cosy. Faux fur vests are often seen during the fall and winter seasons and add a sophisticated yet trendy touch to any cold-weather outfit.
• Knit Vests: Knit vests are cosy, lightweight, and perfect for layering during the cooler months. Made from soft materials like wool or cotton blends, knit vests add texture and warmth to your ensemble. These versatile pieces can be worn over long-sleeve shirts, turtlenecks, or dresses, making them an essential for your fall and winter wardrobe.

Why You Should Invest in a Women's Vest & Waistcoat

• Versatility: Whether it’s a casual day out or a formal occasion, a vest or waistcoat can be styled for almost any setting.
• Layering Option: These garments work wonderfully as layering pieces, adding depth to your outfit without compromising comfort.
• Timelessness: Both vests and waistcoats are classic items that never go out of style. Investing in quality pieces ensures they will remain a staple in your wardrobe for years to come.
• Comfort: Women’s vests and waistcoats are designed to fit comfortably while still allowing you to look polished and put-together.

Shop Women’s Vests & Waistcoats at David Jones

Discover the perfect combination of style and sophistication with David Jones’ women’s vests and waistcoats collection. Whether you're after a classic tailored look, a chic modern cut, or a bold statement piece, our collection offers something for every style and occasion.

Explore a range of colours, fabrics, and fits, all crafted with precision and quality. Shop online with click and collect or visit your nearest David Jones store to find your perfect match. Elevate your wardrobe with a vest or waistcoat that’s as versatile as it is fashionable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to wear under a women’s vest or waistcoat?

When styling a women’s vest or waistcoat, layering is key. A simple shirt or blouse is perfect for adding dimension without overpowering your outfit. For a timeless, classic look, pair a tailored waistcoat with crisp button-up shirt and trousers. If you prefer a more casual feel, a relaxed vest over a cosy knit top creates a chic and comfortable ensemble. Vests are versatile and can be styled in many ways for both formal and casual looks.

How do you wear vests in summer or winter?

Vests and waistcoats are perfect year-round wardrobe staples. In summer, choose lightweight fabrics like linen or cotton and layer a vest over a sleeveless top or dress for a breezy, stylish look. During winter, opt for heavier materials such as wool or tweed, and wear your vest or waistcoat over a long-sleeve shirt, sweater, or turtleneck for extra warmth and style. Layering is the key to wearing vests in both warmer and cooler weather.