Three piece suits and vests

[evolve1859]

I like the look of a three piece suit. My question is, though, do you need to buy a three piece suit to wear a vest? Can you get a vest for a suit you already own? What are the "rules"?

 

[Spong]

Yes you can buy a vest to go with an existing suit but the general practice is don't try to get one to match as it never will unless it was cut from the same cloth. Get one which contrasts - so if, for example, you have a charcoal suit get a lighter grey and vice versa.

Main rule is to make sure the vest is long enough - you shouldn't be able to see any shirt at the bottom - the line from vest to trousers should be smooth and unbroken.

Hope this helps.

 

[evolve1859]

Makes sense. Thanks.

 

[Matt S]

An odd vest (waistcoat) should contrast the suit, and they look best in lighter colours. It shouldn't look like it was from another suit. Typically one would pair a light coloured solid waistcoat (like light grey, buff (beige) or light blue) with a dark grey or navy suit. IMO, light-coloured suits look out of place with a contrasting waistcoat, and they are more fitting with darker, more formal suits. Other than solids, checks and windowpanes can work too.

 

[Superfluous]

bump, anymore comments on this?

Also, where do you buy just a high quality vest?

 

[RSS]

Originally Posted by Tony Romo

bump, anymore comments on this?

Also, where do you buy just a high quality vest?
I suggest going to a tailor.

 

[Superfluous]

Originally Posted by RSS

I suggest going to a tailor.

Are most tailors able to just make them? Is there canvassing in a vest? How much should it cost for a tailor made one?

 

[Superfluous]

bump

 

[RSS]

Originally Posted by Tony Romo

Are most tailors able to just make them? Is there canvassing in a vest? How much should it cost for a tailor made one?
My tailor/s make them for me.

There are tailors at all different quality and price points. Have a talk with one.

 

[Superfluous]

what color vests would go with what color suits/sport coats?

Where can you buy a nice vest, and how do you know if it's long enough?

 

[RSS]

Two colors I find useful are cream and light grey.

As for the right length ... any good tailor or haberdasher will be able to help you.