Sweater Vests Are Re-entering The Chat

Yes, friends, the day has come where sweater vests are no longer only fashionable for your grandpa. They’re for everyone! There are different styles, colors, and silhouettes so virtually anyone can pull off a sweater vest. Because of this, sweater vests have officially re-entered the 2021 trend chat.

Ahead, see how designers incorporated sweater vests into their Spring '21 collections and shop my favorite affordable options that are available now.

Luxury Sweater Vests

At this point, it shouldn't surprise you that “grandpa/grandma” trends are on the rise. Last year, we saw Hawaiian shirts, chunky sneakers, and Bermuda shorts—all of which were previously considered "lame," and are now making an appearance on runways at fashion week and in street style.

Some designers, like Acne Studios and Purdey, are leaning into old-school, preppy sweater vest silhouettes, complete with V-necks and argyle prints. These are retailing for around $400 - $700. That’s quite expensive for a sweater with no sleeves, but if you have the money these are an incredibly stylish option.

Other brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton are creating and putting out sleek, modern takes on the classic sweater vest with cropped silhouettes, turtlenecks, and intense colors that are just as enticing as their retro counterparts.

Affordable Sweater Vests

Big designers are creating expensive sweater vests, which shows us that they are most definitely a trend. If you’re like me, you might not have disposable income to shell out $500 for a sweater vest. Have no fear, I’m going to provide you with great, affordable sweater vest options that will let you participate in this fashion trend without breaking the bank.

These are some of my favorite affordable sweater vests from smaller brands:

Monki Fine Knit Vest ($25)

Emmiol Floral Print Jacquard Sweater Vest ($20)

Cider "Bearly" Made It Sweater Vest ($32)

Scroll through the options below to find the sweater vest that fits your style best. You can click here to go to my shop-able Pinterest board that features unique variations of the sweater vest trend.

Source: Sweater Vests

How to Style:

Styling a sweater vest is always fun because there are so many different types of styles it works for—from preppy school-style to “ugly” button-knit sweater vests. There is an option for every occasion. Don’t be afraid to take risks with the sweater vest trend.

A fun way to spice up the sweater vest trend is with psychedelic prints. Curtain bangs have been commanding our attention, and adding a cute button-up sweater vest or knit sweater vest is the perfect ‘70s vibe we all have been craving.

But if you aren’t trying to rock the ‘70s style, you can integrate a sweater vest into a minimalist outfit easily. Try a monochrome sweater vest and trouser combo for the perfect sophisticated style.

Sweater vests are also the perfect layering piece. It can not only help you transition those summer looks into fall, but can also provide some much needed warmth and layering for your winter fashion fits.

Between the houndstooth Zara sweater vest being sold out everywhere, and my TikTok “for you page” being overwhelmed with sweater vests, it is inevitable the sweater vest aesthetic will be taking over 2021.

Now it’s time! Click on any of the links in this article and you are bound to find a sweater vest that you will fall in love with.