Modernizing the Western Vest for Your Wardrobe

Every once in a while, it’s important to buy something you normally wouldn’t so you’re constantly pushing your style boundaries. This time around, we’re encouraging you to go west—way west—with a western vest.

But you don’t have to wear a vest like it came straight from John Wayne’s wardrobe. Keep reading and corral some of our styling tips for finding one that’s in line with your fashion sense.

Focus on the fringe.

Nothing says western like a heavy dose of fringe. It’s a key element in western wear, so there’s no need to overdo it with other pieces like a cowboy hat or a pair of boots. Instead, wear it with a sleek pair of thigh-highs made for walking the concrete catwalk.

Consider an unlikely color.

Just like the Wild, Wild West, the clothes inspired from it are usually a landscape of browns. A brown vest is easy to style, and the same goes for black, but if you want to take things up a notch, opt for one in an arresting red or military green tone.

Look at the length.

The traditional western vest was cut at waist length and used as a layering garment to keep cowboys warm For a modern spin on the western wear classic, use a longline version to round up and pull together pieces you wouldn’t immediately think to wear it with, like a lace slip dress and a pair of ankle cuff heel sandals.

Despite its origins, there’s room for a western vest in your modern wardrobe. Don’t be afraid to conquer this new frontier for fashion’s sake.

It's time to in-vest in one of these.

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