11 best women’s waistcoat for a quiet luxury look

Zara’s linen blend waistcoat has an expensive feel that belies its affordable price tag. Made from a lyocell and linen blend, the lightweight and breathable design falls into a flattering silhouette.

Elevated by the deep V-neckline and tortoiseshell button-down front, the black finish is timeless and easily styled with just about anything in your wardrobe. We’ll be layering it under oversized black blazers or throwing it on over a white tee for a more laid-back look.

H&M has nailed it with this budget waistcoat. Finished in grey marl, as well as black, the piece boasts a flattering corset-style silhouette, deep, square neckline, front button placket and shaping seams at the front and back for an extra flattering fit.

Lined and crafted from a twill-effect fabric, it feels far more premium than the price tag suggests. A smart alternative to a vest, it can be easily dressed up under a matching grey blazer or down with wide leg jeans and trainers.

Reformation’s aspen linen top is a fashion editor favourite for good reason. It has a super flattering bodice-style fit, while the long-length silhouette puts a contemporary spin on the waistcoat trend.

Flaring out at the hem, the high V-neck is teamed with a gold-trim button-down front and welt pockets. Style with low-rise jeans and studded ballet flats or a silk maxi skirt and trainers for an easy yet elevated autumn look. We’re obsessed.

A contemporary twist on the classic, tailored style, The Frankie Shop’s Maesa waistcoat features asymmetric buttons down the front and a diagonal placket.  Finished in a neutral beige hue, the piece is made from lightweight chambray that helps retain its boxy shape.

The structured silhouette is complete with wide shoulder straps, while the slightly cropped cut styles perfectly with high waisted jeans or the matching cargo trousers (£185, Matchesfashion.com). We’d suggest sizing up, as the fit comes up quite small.

This shimmering waistcoat is a dazzling piece for the party season and beyond. The velvet material and contrasting back panel wear a metallic sheen, and while it isn’t a budget option by any means, it’s clear that the material and overall quality are stellar.

It has a boxy and fairly loose fit and falls to a good length. Finished with two faux pockets and black buttons, it also sports a high-shine silver waist buckle, although this can only be adjusted very slightly. A go-to if you want to impress, dress it down with a long-sleeved top or shirt for everyday or workwear with a twist of glam.

One of our go-to brands for sustainable denim, Seventy + Mochi’s vintage-inspired Pablo waistcoat is a unique take on the tailored trend. The design is available in seven playful and classic finishes (from stripes to dusty rose), and the piece is detailed with the label’s signature blanket stitching on the patch pockets and a cottagecore style frill collar. As for the fit, it’s comfortably cropped.

Made from organic cotton and eco-made elastane, the denim waistcoat is structured without being stifling. Whether you size up for an oversized look or down for a fitted silhouette, the statement waistcoat is an investment piece you’ll cherish season after season.

A cool way to incorporate denim into your autumn wardrobe, this Nobody’s Child waistcoat is a hero piece. The flattering cut features a V-neckline and tailoring details such as welt pockets and an adjustable strap at the back, as well as single-breasted buttons.

Boasting a relaxed fit that can be more structured thanks to the strap, the indigo-hued piece works just as nicely with the label’s matching maxi skirt (£65, Nobodyschild.com) or wide-leg black trousers. Made from an organic cotton blend, it’s comfortable and lightweight.

Pinstripe is having a moment this season, and Mango’s waistcoat leans into the trend without feeling too corporate. The straight design is subtly oversized with a slightly cropped cut.

Complete with a V-neck, two welt pockets and a button-down front, the smart style can be easily dressed down with wide leg jeans and ballet flats. Or, take advantage of the high street store’s tailored range with the matching pinstripe trousers (£49.99, Mango.com) and oversized blazer (£79.99, Mango.com).

An occasion-ready take on the classic waistcoat, Free People’s Libby vest boasts a cropped, V-neck silhouette with a button-front closure. The waistcoat’s pointed bottom hem gives the piece a Seventies feel while an adjustable waist at the back lets you cinch the vest in for a more bodice-style fit.

Super flattering and comfortable thanks to the stretchy, velvet-effect fabric, it works as a stellar layering staple or party top paired with a black mini skirt and boots.

Adding some intrigue to your autumn ensembles, Aligne’s denim waistcoat is elevated by the contrasting indigo hues and vintage-inspired patchwork finish. It features denim jean-style buttons, a high V-neck and a relaxed, regular cut.

Whether layered over a mini dress, styled with Aligne’s matching denim midi skirt (£89, Aligne.co) or teamed with wafty black linen trousers, it’s a staple winter piece. The price tag is justified by the well-crafted design, which means it keeps its boxy shape throughout the day.

Elegant and refined, Sleeper’s waistcoat is made from lightweight linen and finished in light grey (one of this season’s hottest colourways). Complete with tonal front buttons, a chic satin tie adds detail to the back while cinching your silhouette in.

The design is flattering yet smart, thanks to the classic men’s waistcoat-style back panelling and the crew neck, so it’s a stellar option for the office, whether styled with jeans and loafers or a black maxi skirt.