13 Work-Appropriate Vests That’ll Make Dressing for the Office as Easy as One, Two, Three

A good portion of trends popping up on recent runways aren’t exactly designed for the office. Seriously, you’re not about to rock acid-wash jeans in front of your co-workers, play peekaboo with a cut-out top, slip a bustier on over your blouse or carry a micro bag to work, no matter how cute it is. But now the fashion gods have finally smiled upon us with the return of the three-piece suit. And the most important part of a three-piece suit is a work-appropriate vest.

Several labels sent matching blazers, pants and vests down the Spring 2020 runways. We’re talking big names like Burberry, Etro, Rag & Bone and more. The good news is that you don’t have to spend designer bucks to lean into the trend — or buy all three pieces. All you really need to do is invest in a work-appropriate vest that complements a suit or suits already hanging in your closet. And while the theme on the catwalks was to go matchy-matchy, we’re giving you permission to let your vest and shirt stand out from the rest of your suit.

When it comes to fabrics, everything from wool to linen is on the table. (Don’t let the fact that we’re talking about a spring trend turn you off the wool option because wool vests are perfect for slipping on over your shirt on those not quite warm, not quite cold spring days.) Plaid and houndstooth are popular patterns for vests, or waistcoats, or whatever the hell you want to call them, but you really should consider picking up a solid hue or two.

Check out the slideshow below to see the best work-appropriate vests to spend your hard-earned paycheck on. Some of them will even work on the weekends paired with a basic tee, jeans and a pair of square-toe sandals.