vestlike

Vestlike is an English adjective used to describe something that resembles a vest in form, function, or silhouette. The term is formed from the noun vest with the productive suffix -like, and it is employed in fashion and garment descriptions to indicate a resemblance to a sleeveless upper-body garment that typically closes at the front.

Etymology: The word combines vest with -like, following a common pattern in English for creating descriptive terms. The noun vest itself has a long history in garment vocabulary and serves as the basis for many derivative adjectives such as vestlike.

Usage: In fashion and apparel discourse, vestlike can describe garments or designs that evoke the clean lines and practical coverage of a vest without being a traditional waistcoat. Examples include sleeveless jackets with a front placket or structured tops with a front closure and a vest-inspired silhouette. The term is often used to compare pieces across collections or to highlight stylistic references to classic waistcoats while acknowledging contemporary reinterpretations.

Notes: The term is descriptive rather than a fixed category, and its precise meaning can vary by author or context. It is most commonly applied to clothing, but may also be used metaphorically to describe accessories or design elements that mimic vest-like coverage or proportions.

See also: waistcoat, waist-length jacket, gilet.