Vests

A vest is a sleeveless garment worn on the torso. In American English, the term most often refers to a sleeveless outer garment worn with a shirt and sometimes a jacket, commonly called a waistcoat in British English. In contrast, in the UK and some other regions, vest can refer to a sleeveless undershirt or singlet. The word may also denote non-clothing items such as protective or buoyant vests.

Styles and varieties include formal waistcoats worn as part of a suit, and casual gilets or fleece vests intended for layering. Padded or down-filled vests provide insulation, while leather or knitted vests offer different textures. In safety contexts, “vest” can denote protective equipment such as ballistic or stab-resistant vests, or life vests used for buoyancy.

Design features common to many vests include a sleeveless cut, shoulder or armhole openings, front closures (buttons, snaps, or zippers), and pockets. Materials range from wool, tweed, and cotton to synthetics and down. Length may vary from cropped to hip-length. Care depends on fabric and use, including washing instructions and, for some fabrics, dry cleaning.

Historically, vests emerged in Europe in the 17th century as part of formal attire and evolved into the modern waistcoat used with three-piece suits. In contemporary fashion, vests are used for warmth and layering, as well as for performance wear and protection. Regional terminology and uses reflect varied dress codes, climates, and safety needs.