If you're a denim devotee, it's likely you're always on the lookout for a great top (or 17) to pair with your trusty jeans. Once you've found the denim silhouettes you love, all you need is a small but solid selection of tees, button-downs and a few other tops to keep easy looks on rotation. Nothing is quicker or more reliable than a great top and jeans combination, so we always take note of any new-season pairings that should be on your radar. The latest? A knitted waistcoat. Not convinced? I think you will be.
A hybrid top to beat all others, the knitted waistcoat has essentially been born out of two trends: waistcoats have been on the fashion grid for some time now, and fine knits for summer feel like an elevated, "quiet luxury" purchase. Put the two together, and I'd go so far as to say that the knitted waistcoat is the Swiss Army knife of layering pieces. It's surprisingly versatile. You can throw it over a button-down, open it over a dress, or—like so many of the stylish women in our network—simply wear it as a top with a pair of jeans.
Take a cue from Francesca Saffari (pictured above), who paired her black knitted waistcoat with Citizens of Humanity's cult Ayla jeans in a perfect light-blue wash. The contrast of these loose jeans with the more formal-looking waistcoat works so well, and it's such an easy look. And then there's Anouk Yve (pictured at the top of this story), who kept her cream waistcoat looking sleek with slim jeans and black, suede, pointed-toe flats.
Below, I've done the hard work for you and rounded up a few of the best knitted waistcoats on the market right now. So there you have it—your spring uniform sorted.
Shop Our Favourite Knitted Waistcoats:
I'll be wearing this with my beloved black wide-leg trousers (also from COS) and some cute ballet flats.
No buttons, but ties! This is so pretty for the warmer months.
The scarf detail makes this one feel so luxurious, and pale yellow is one of this season's biggest colour trends.
This delicately ribbed waistcoat also comes in white.
The longline silhouette is so elegant, especially when buttoned like in this model shot.
Imagine this with black, flared jeans and kitten-heel mules—such a good outfit.
I'm having fun adding colour back into my warm-weather wardrobe—this fits the bill perfectly.
The soft linen-blend knit makes this a dream to wear on cooler days.
Just add a pair of light-wash skinny jeans, black trainers and a baseball cap for an easy sunny day look.
I'm wearing this to my best friend's upcoming baby shower.
This whole ensemble is just so elegant—the only accessory you need is a basket bag.
Add an oversized blazer draped over the shoulders for a chic work look.
I gravitate towards anything neutral, so this mole shade was an instant hit for me. It also comes in cream if that's more your thing.
