TRENDING: BEST OF THE VESTS

There's no denying that there has been a slow creep of 'vests' on the high street. From waistcoats to vests to gilets, these little sleeveless numbers are taking centre stage in the outfits and styling suggestions. So, what are our sewing pattern options?

I will play a little loosey-goosey with the term 'vest' to give you the greatest range of options under this sleeveless category. Whether you fancy sewing a smart two-piece for modern wedding guest wear, are after something to elevate your beautiful blouses, or need a little chuck on for your summer dresses, I have some great options to share.

The patterns I've picked cater to differing tastes. From smart waistcoats to casual, every day layers to practical vests that will give hands free a new meaning. You might have spotted there are 11 patterns rather than the usual 10. I just couldn't cut one off my list, so there you are!

I spotted that the indie designers relied on quite a few of the same styling pieces, so if you want to recreate the looks with the perfect boxy tee or need that tailored duo, I've included a few styling heroes to complete the look.

Top Row:

THE FANCIFUL FULL SKIRT: Merchant & Mills Shepherd Skirt

THE PERFECT PUFF SLEEVE: Wardrobe by Me Puff Sleeve

THE EASY-BREEZY BOTTOMS: Named Aulio Elastic Waist Shorts & Trousers

THE EDWARDIAN-INSPIRED BLOUSE: Ready to Sew Henriette Blouse

Bottom Row:

THE RELAXED SHIRT: Ready to Sew Hans Shirt

THE TRENDY BARREL-LEG: Helen's Closet Falconer Pants

THE PERFECT BOXY TEE: Madswick MADE-line Tee

THE TAILORED PAIR: Atelier Jupe Blake Trousers

Ready to Sew Harold Vest

Harold is an Annie Hall-inspired vest pattern with a knitted back panel made from ribbing or even an old sweater you love too much to part with. ⁠It's a piece that combines structure and comfort, perfect layered over a loose tee or a boxy shirt for a laid-back yet intentional look. Harold comes with multiple cup sizes to help achieve a great fit.

Sizing: EU 32 – 48 and EU 48 – 64 (approx. UK 8 – 18 and UK 18 – 34). Range 1 (32-48) has A/B and C/D cup options. Range 2 (48-64) has C/D and E/F cup options.

Sewing Level: Confident beginner / Intermediate

The Modern Sewing Co Devon Waistcoat

We've had some great vest patterns dropping recently and this one expertly balances smart and casual. It features subtle feminine shaping through the seams. The fastening options give each piece a different personality, and the lining enables extra cosy winter versions or a lightweight summer finish, which could be reversible.

Sizing: UK 4 – 28 (approx. UK 4/6 – 26)

Sewing Level: Intermediate

Named Asteri Vest (and Button-down Dress)

If you fancy sewing one trend-led piece this spring/sumer, I think this is a great option. Kate has included it in her Spring Trends report as this style is all over the high street at the moment. Pair it with tailored trousers or a full skirt for a co-ord smart enough to wear for a special occasion.

The vest features distinctive patch pockets on the hips, and has a buckled tab at the back waist for adjusting ease.

Sizing: EU 32 – 56 (approx. UK 6 – 28)

Sewing Level: Intermediate

Daisy Chain Patterns Winona Vest

I have my eye on this one for pottering around the garden in style. It's a magpies dream, as you have so many options to mix and match to sew a vest that meets your needs and tastes. This Western-inspired utility vest features two neckline options, an optional collar, two yoke variations, and three pocket options - need I say more? You can even quilt it for an aesthetically pleasing extra touch.

Sizing: XS – 6X (approx. UK 6 – 38)

Sewing Level: Intermediate

Merchant & Mills Miller Waistcoat

Miller delivers all the terrific details of a waistcoat you could hope for and would be a sewing project that would ease you nicely into tailoring techniques. It is softly structured, with a boxy fit, two welt pockets and a simple stitched belt at the back. It will become a piece that you love for many year to come.

Sizing: UK 6 – 18 or UK 18 – 28

Sewing Level: Intermediate

Fibre Mood Zehra Waistcoat

I am a BIG fan of layering, and Zehra gives you a warming layer without hours and hours of knitting. What's more, this simple styling piece can be made from knit or woven fabrics, so the world is your oyster.

Sizing: XS – XXXL (approx. UK 6 – 28/30)

Sewing Level: Confident beginner

Ready to Sew Hendrix Sleeveless Jacket

We are all fawning over this pattern, and we are sure many of you will be too. Versatile and easy to wear, Hendrix layers perfectly over a boxy T-shirt, a sweater, or even a hoodie. With its relaxed cut you can size up for an oversized feel or down for a more fitted silhouette. You could even use up old denim to recreate the gorgeous sample pictured.

Sizing: EU 32 – 48 and EU 48 – 64 (approx. UK 8 – 18 and UK 18 – 34)

Sewing level: Confident beginner 

Wardrobe by Me Pika Vest

The Pika Vest one of the easiest vests to style in the round-up. Wear it over shirts and T-shirts, or alone as a top for that on-trend tailoring look. The front has a pointed hem that is slightly longer than the back hem, princess seams and decorative (non-functional) welts. The back features darts and a centre back seam for shaping, and the inside is finished with facings and a lining that is pleated for ease of wear.

Sizing: EU 30 – 54 / US 0 – 24 (approx. UK 6 – 24)

Sewing Level: Intermediate

Notches Benly Utility Vest

Don't judge a book by its cover, Benly is the most versatile pattern on this list. With 72 ways to make it, you really can go to town designing your dream vest. Whether you go for utility 'fisherman' vibes or a boho gilet, Benly is design to be perfectly practical in every way.

Mix and match seven different pocket options - your handbag will become almost unnecessary! Then choose from five closure options: no closures, a zipper, clips, ties or toggles. I reckon you could make a really useful gardening vest or even one for hiking. And don't just stop there, because Notches have matching men's and children’s versions, so the whole family can have one!

Sizing: XS - 6XL / EU 34 - 62 (approx. UK 6 - 34/36)

Sewing level: Confident beginner / Intermediate

Puff and Pencil Topstitch Vest

The perfect addition to your spring or autumn wardrobe, this vest features trendy drop shoulders and two big front pockets, making it both stylish and functional. The boxy shape means it can easily be layered over thicker items, like jumpers, giving your outfit an edgy look. The placket has snap fasteners, which a great for anyone who doesn't like sewing buttonholes, or just hates doing them up!

If you might want to make this garment with sleeves at some point, grab the Topstitch Vest & Box Sleeve pattern bundle, so you can make the sleeveless version or the version with sleeves.

Sizing: XXS – XXL (approx. UK 6 – 22/24)

Sewing Level: Intermediate

Bella Loves Patterns Bennie Vest

If you're still with me, you have the endurance this next pattern requires. Bella is the queen of tailoring, so you are in great hands with this pattern. This waistcoat features a v-shaped front neckline and side slanted double jetted pockets inserted into the front princess seams. At the back, Bennie has shoulder darts, a centre back seam, back princess seams, and side ties to adjust the fit at the waist. You'll be on your way to Saville Row in no time!

Sizing: UK 6 – 22 (approx. UK 6/8 – 18/20, based on our standardised size chart).

Sewing level: Intermediate

 

I hope you found this round-up inspiring. I can't get vests out of my head now so I need to get sewing one too - at least I know what my best options are!