When summer rolls around, a few expected wardrobe heroes always come to the fore. Basket bags are taken out of storage, airy maxi dresses are hung front and centre and light linens take their place as the main event. But in recent years, it’s not only the classic linen trousers that have become a mainstay on warmer days. For those looking for a little extra polish even when the suns out, the linen waistcoat has charmed its way back into the hearts of fashion people to combine lightweight, breathable material and smart tailoring to become a mainstay on fashion people’s wish lists at this time of year. And on my regular evening scroll of Instagram, I found some of our favourite fashion people are styling this high street style on repeat.
After regaining its title in fashion circles a few years ago, the waistcoat is a common feature in most fashion people’s wardrobes. Unlike the early 2000’s iterations that were worn loosely over boho ensembles, the current aesthetic is cool yet put-together and this waistcoat ticks all the boxes. What’s even better is that this style comes from a high street brand we regularly turn to for brilliant forever pieces, Whistles.
Finding a great piece on the high street that has an expensive-looking edge is a personal passion of mine, and this waistcoat fits right into that category. What I’ve found is that its the finer details that make these affordable pieces look priced beyond their price tag. On this occasion, Whistles has added a smattering of buttons which are perfectly placed to be worn without a top underneath, and avoid bra exposing gaps. Alongside, the slightly higher neckline exudes elegance whilst the back tab adds to the tailored detail of the piece, which can be adjusted for a fitted or loose look.
More than simply being a chic piece for any wardrobe, both Erica and Sarah show just how versatile this piece is. So much so that I took it upon myself to create four summer looks, ranging from day to night to show how many ways you can style this waistcoat. Better still, you can pull on your own wardrobe heroes, including trusty denim, floaty skirts, full-look linen or slim tailoring. Whether headed for coffee or out for dinner, this smart piece is sure to fit the part.
Keep scrolling to shop Whistles’s Lindsey Linen-Blend Waistcoat, and see the four ways I’m planning to style it for summer.
SHOP WHISTLES’S TRENDING LINDSEY LINEN-BLEND WAISTCOAT:
Whistles
Lindsey Linen Blend Waistcoat
Whistles
Lindsey Linen Blend Waistcoat
It also comes in this fresh cream shade, which is selling out fast.
4 WAYS I’M STYLING WHISTLES’S LINDSEY LINEN-BLEND WAISTCOAT:
1. WAISTCOAT + JEANS + HEELS
Whistles
Lindsey Linen Blend Waistcoat
The side pockets are such a nice touch.
Missoma
Lucy Williams Medium Chunky Ridge Hoop Earrings
A sleek pair of hoops can be relied upon every day.
Arket
Cloud Low Loose Jeans
A beloved style by Arket.
DeMellier
The Tokyo Off-White Smooth
This could easily pass for designer.
Charles & Keith
Meadow Strappy Block Heel Sandals
Take any outfit to new heights with these understated strappy heels.
2. WAISTCOAT + SKIRT + FLAT SANDALS
Whistles
Lindsey Linen Blend Waistcoat
The lightweight fabric makes it ideal for the summer months, or can be layered up when the milder weather hits.
M&S Collection
Pure Cotton Box Pleat Midaxi A-Line Skirt
The sun is finally here, which means its time to pull out our favourite floaty skirts.
Damson Madder
Edge Statement Cotton Scrunchie
The perfect finishing touch.
Hush
Kikapu Leather Weave Tote Bag
From the bold shade to the intricate weaving, this is a piece sure to be treasured for years.
The contrast stitching is a nice touch.
3. WAISTCOAT + LINEN TROUSERS + BASKET BAG
Whistles
Lindsey Linen Blend Waistcoat
There’s also a $ matching blazer$ if you’re keen to recreate a full three-piece suit look.
Whistles
Lindsey Linen Blend Trouser
It doesn’t get much more relaxed than a matching linen set.
Loewe
Anagram Basket Bag in Iraca
If you’re looking to invest in a forever basket bag, Loewe’s sleek styles are always a smart choice.
M&S Collection
Flatform Toe Thong Sandals
This pair is so good M&S reissue them every year.
Bottega Veneta
Split Rectangular Sunglasses
The gold frames and subtle coloured lenses give a particular vintage feel.
4. WAISTCOAT + SLIM TROUSERS + MULES
Whistles
Lindsey Linen Blend Waistcoat
This also comes in a petite version too.
Orelia London
Cupchain Tennis Necklace
Add some shimmer to your after hours look with a tennis necklace.
There’s an innate elegance to the fit of these cigarette trousers.
Chanel
Rouge Allure Luminous Intense Lipstick
Find your signature red lip and you’ll stick to it forever.
Aquazzura
Twist Leather Clutch
Gold and white are such a classic combination.
Mango
Pointed-Toe Leather Slingback Shoes – Women
If you thought these were designer I wouldn’t blame you.