Denim Vests Are Back

Trends come and go at record speed these days, but the denim vest has transcended the seasons to become a renewed modern staple. With the reemergence of Western wear, denim vests are back to the forefront of runways, ad campaigns, magazine features, and street style. Yet styling them can feel tricky since they aren't quite as ubiquitous as the denim jacket, which most of us throw on with anything from joggers to maxi skirts without much thought. However, with the right select and styling strategy (think: the proper wash, cut, and basics underneath), you'll have a piece you can style in countless ways for a wide range of ensembles that will work for years to come. Ahead, discover eight denim vest outfit ideas, complete with styling tips to make the piece work for the office, music festivals, brunch outings, and more.

01. Western Whites

Rich, deeply pigmented fabric is likely to come to mind when you think of denim vests. However, opting for a white style provides a less-expected twist that just feels like summer. A gold-adorned monochromatic outfit featuring the piece is the ticket to getting in on the Western trend in a warm-weather-appropriate manner.

02. Cinched And Chic

Love them or hate them, barrel jeans aren't rolling out of the style zeitgeist any time soon. If you want to create a balanced look featuring the divisive trend, try a vest with a cinched waist to contrast the fullness of the leg. For an added upscale flair, make sure both pieces are in an extra-dark wash so you can wear them from the office (if your workplace embraces denim) to happy hour. 

03. Elevated Layers

Summer Fridays may be on the horizon, but you'll still need plenty of work outfit inspo for the warm days when you are in-office. Pair a light-wash denim vest with a simple white tee (or crisp button-down) and slacks for a practical, office-appropriate ensemble with flair. It's up to you whether to opt for pants in a statement hue or keep it classic with a navy option.

04. Texture Play

Denim vests can lean western, rock-n-roll, or avant-garde, depending on how you style and accessorize them. In this case, Alicia Keys pairs a cropped vest with leather cargos for an unforgettable look that goes from day to night. Of course, you'll want some standout accessories to bring this ensemble full circle: A statement gold chain necklace and sunglasses further elevate the cool factor.

05. Summertime Staple

Festival season is here, which means many of us are headed to long days of live music in the heat. Denim on a sweltering day can feel like an iffy choice, but there are plenty of ways to wear the cotton-based fabric while staying comfortable. Instead of a full vest, opt for a halter that has a put-together silhouette in the front, but more room for air to flow in the back. Pair the piece with cutoff micro shorts for an ensemble that's ready to party, or for an effortlessly cool feel, go for denim Bermuda shorts.

06. Classic Combo

Matching sets are forever a shortcut to coordinated style, making it a breeze to get dressed. This classic vest-and-shorts duo is laid-back yet sophisticated, ideal for a weekend afternoon of brunch and shopping. As a bonus, investing in a set provides you with two pieces that you can wear together or separately. 

07. Updated Basics

For an office-friendly take, pair your denim vest with an oversized button-down and ballet flats. While a button-down is a standout option, you can layer a whole range of pieces under your vest, from a lightweight sleeveless turtleneck to a simple crewneck tee.

08. Denim On Denim On Denim

A denim jacket layered over a vest is an instant showstopper. Complete the look with flared jeans, a shoulder bag, and reflective sunglasses, and you're ready for any festival or other fun warm-weather event.