We love great tailoring here at Mullen & Mullen - in fact, we're famous for it. However, there's one piece of tailoring in your wardrobe that perhaps isn't getting as much respect as it should. That's right; we're talking about waistcoats, and not everyone a) knows how to wear one or b) is comfortable wearing one. Because of this, countless fabulous specimens are being left to gather dust at the back of many a wardrobe. Luckily, we're here to change that, with our handy guide on how to get it right with your waistcoat.
Love your waistcoat
A waistcoat can be a great way to add a whole new dimension to your look, fitting in with many different occasions whilst also giving you plenty of room to experiment with playful layers and colours. So, what's not to like about your waistcoat? Well, it partly comes down to misrepresentation; we've seen the waistcoat worn badly, and not all of us like the bulky, baggy look the wrong sized waistcoat can give. However, just take a look at someone who happens to be rocking it, and your opinion may be transformed, along with your wardrobe.
How to get it right
Above all else, the fit is the most important part of choosing the right waistcoat. It should fit relatively snugly across your shoulders and torso, and ensure the armholes are fairly high. Excess material will add bulk to your frame, so try and avoid this where possible, as waistcoats are at their best when they make you look streamlined. At the same time, there should be no gaping holes between your buttonholes when the waistcoat is fastened.
On the matter of fastening, your waistcoat should always be buttoned up - no leaving it to flap about in the wind, as this makes you appear half-dressed regardless of occasion. Saying that, you may like the option to leave the last button undone, so there is no pull when you lift your arms.
When looking to buy a new waistcoat, a good piece of advice is to buy it as part of a suit, or at least one that has an option for a suit, which does more to guarantee good quality tailoring (rather than mass produced men's fashion) and give you more options for wear. All men should own a sharp three-piece suit if possible.
As for styles, you can afford to be a little bit creative with waistcoats, and mix it up with seasonal fabrics (curated in winter, whipcord/cotton in summer). Experimenting with colours and pocket squares can also help you avoid the waiter look.
For bespoke tailoring in York, contact the experts at Yorkshire tailors Mullen & Mullen today - we're happy to help!