Buyer’s Guide: Sweater Vest

Sweater vests are a low-maintenance way of providing a punch of color in your wardrobe without looking overwhelmingly bold. You can get away with a lot more in terms of colors and styles, and what’s better is that they have an instantly respectable air. They are perfect for the collegiate crowd, the professional, and the sportsman in us all.

Plus, they are a perfect way to keep yourself looking good while not piling on the layers. Sweater vests are great for crisp early-autumn weather which may get a bit warmer by noon: they keep your chest warm while letting your arms feel a little less, well, suffocated. So for all of us who dislike the weight of most sweaters, a sweater vest is a positively gentlemanly compromise.

Men’s Flair Picks at YOOX.COM

Updated Classic Sweater Vest: Christian Dior

New to sweater vests? Your first stop should be a very simple shape in a very basic color—it’s a perfect wardrobe builder. Get one from your favorite designer to last you for years. Get a black style from Christian Dior at Yoox online store. It’s available in 100% wool for $225.

Retro Shape: Pringle

There’s something so incredibly elegant about a v-neck vest with an embroidered logo on the chest. It’s a wardrobe saver in itself: vest can double as casual workwear or as smart weekend wear, so enjoy! It will suit you for a little golf, a casual Friday at work, messing about on the weekends, or a lazy Sunday. Go for a touch of preppy cool with this one, available in a light blue and vibrant red for $70.00. Go to YOOX.COM to get this stylish vest in 100% wool.

Collegiate Style: 55 DSL

Cable designs are completely timeless, a bit Ivy League, and have just a touch of intellectual good looks. Yes, cables—they were popular in the 1940s, from fraternity-style to sporting type sweater vests, and these twisted, ropey-looking designs transform your garment into something much, much more classic and respectable.

Try a cabled in a heathered pattern in a warm solid color, like a deep charcoal gray, camel, or mocha. For a slight upgrade in your respectability, check out 55 DSLÂ at Yoox for a 50% wool, 50% acrylic in grey. It’s an affordable $74.

Funkier Touch: DKNY

Argyle and jacquard sweater vests can be a cool fashion statement, if you choose it properly. No two patterned vests are made the same, and the design will change drastically from designer to designer. It’s up to you to decide the best look for your needs.

Our suggestions: try an updated color—nothing too loud—and a flattering small to medium pattern. If you’re into a touch of bright colors and like a larger pattern, try a touch of isolated, larger argyle pattern with a plain ground. Try DKNY Jean’s jacquard sweater vest in dark gray for an unobtrusive but very eye-catching look. It’s yours at YOOX.COM for only $68.