Vests are everywhere right now. Similar to the long cardigan trend there are a million different styles and a million different ways to wear them. Where to begin…

The sweater vest. We’re not talking about a mothball tainted sweater vest you might find in grandpa’s wardrobe, but rather a sleeker and sexier, yet casual cut. These vests have embellishments and themes that vary across the board. If your vest is noticeably textured, balance out the look with some simple jeans or dark pants. Toss on a fun tee shirt under the vest, but make sure it’s not too detailed if the sweater vest has embellishments. Throw on some sexy heels for a night out, or opt for ballerina flats if you’re running errands. While this look might be too hot for daytime these next few weeks, it is absolutely perfect for nightfall, not to mention the onset and duration of Autumn!

sweater vests in this observation:

The Funky Vest. Yes, you can actually wear these if you wear them right. We don’t want to look like we just came home from marching band practice, correct? So if you can help it, avoid the huge hat with chin strap and plume. But in all seriousness, when you go for this vest, you must stay simple with every other aspect of the outfit. Basic boot cuts, a black pant, or bland colored skinny jean will do the trick (avoid fancy pockets or seam work). As with the rest of the outfit, the shirt under the vest should be simple, simple, simple. Want to take the hipster route? Toss on a long, but fitted tee shirt and some leggings. Simple stud earrings is as far as the jewelry should go.

over the top items in this observation:

The cropped vest. NOTE: I would suggest always wearing an under layer. Unless of course you want to wear it with Jean’s least favorite wedge sneaker and call it a day! Since most of these short looks have plummeting v-necks, you can play with a ruffled or texture embellished shirt as an under layer. The short vest is one of the styles that has the amazing ability to be totally dressed up or down, and for that reason alone we love it. In order to dress it down, toss aside the ruffled tee shirt and replace it with a simple top. You can also play with a dress as an under layer - try to find one that shoots straight down and does not gather at the waist in order to avoid awkward and conflicting lines.

cropped items in this observation:

The Simple Vest. These vests are just simply…vests. There is no hoo-rah about them - no crazy shortness, buttons, patches, stripes, fur or peep holes. Yes, some of them have a bit of gather or are made with unique fabric or material, but they are all pretty classic in cut, length and overall ‘vest-ness’. These can be worn with anything underneath including a simple dress (which looks so great) to practically any pant. You might even opt out of a top under layer, (bow chikka wow wow), that’s if the neck line is appropriate. Again, toss on some sassy heels and you’re good to go! If the vest is super simple, pump it up by layering two completely different necklaces. Errands? Dress it down with a basic tee shirt, skinnies and your favorite Converse.

classic items in this observation:

To top it all off, the vest trend gets a big gold star for being totally transitional!

It’s crisp, refreshing, and an All-American look. Nautical inspired pieces make an appearance every summer. It’s a consistent, classic style that women always seem to welcome. Jackie Kennedy pulled this look off brilliantly. She looked great in a blue and white striped shirt with white pedal pushers and her signature giant sunglasses. There are so many ways to wear this style, we’re going to show you four. The first look is perfect for cocktails on the boat. White linen pants with sailor buttons, a yellow and white stripe tank, a bag made from recycled sails, an anchor necklace for added detail… and, of course, yellow aviators. It’s a relaxed casual chic that doesn’t come across as trying too hard. The next look is perfect for a day of boating. You’ll need your suit to catch some rays, a wide blue and white stripe is a classic. You might get cold after water skiing, so throw on a cute pair of anchor sweats, and a pop of red with a hoodie. Don’t forget your boat shoes, and a navy tote to hold your towels and ipod. The third look is great for everyday running around. A sailor tunic, paired with leggings or denim shorts. A boat bag that makes a great tote, and a pair of flat espadrilles. Add some fun jewelry, like an anchor necklace and a rope bracelet. You’ll look good and feel comfortable all day. The last look is a bit dressier. A white skirt with sailor button detail, mixed with an ocean colored striped sweater. Pop in a denim luxury bag, and tie an anchor scarf around the handle for effect. It’s the perfect outfit for an evening poolside or party on the beach. Even if you’re not near the ocean, this is a great style to embrace. Trust us, this style will be around for a long time, so it’s a good place to invest in important pieces. All aboard!

items in this observation (clockwise):

Top:

Right:

Bottom:

Left:

Gryphon tulip skirt jacket @ Nordstrom

Juicy Couture belted trench @ Net-a-Porter

Burberry Prorsum piped edge trench @ Net-a-Porter

Burberry Ivybridge cotton trench @ Net-a-Porter

Every spring we are reminded just how versatile and classic a trench coat can be. It’s probably one of the best wardrobe investments you will ever make, because it will never go out of fashion. If you currently have one from years past, you can easily update it by shortening it to the knee or slightly above.  If you happen to be in the market for a trench, there are two ways to go: 1. You could go for a trench in a bold color, which is very au courant. Or, 2. You can choose a classic black or tan trench. The latter may be the smarter buy if you don’t have a trench. However, if you already have a classic then you may want to consider punching your wardrobe up a little with a bold color. Or you can choose one with a modern take on the classic design like the Gryphon trench pictured above. It’s no loner about the rain, this coat goes anywhere, anytime, and with anything. It looks sassy and sophisticated with jeans and a tee. It also looks sexy and mysterious belted over a skirt or dress.  Either way, a trench is smart looking and makes any look polished and pulled together. It’s a must; ponder the purchase no more!