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Waistcoats were originally worn by men in the 19th century and were made of velvet, silk, or brocade. They were often worn over a long-sleeved shirt and under a jacket. Today, vests are made from a variety of materials and are worn by both men and women for fashion, insulation, or as outerwear. They are also worn in the performing arts.
Traditionally made without sleeves, a waistcoat is a waistcoat worn by both men and women. First worn in the 19th century, the waistcoat was a men’s garment often made of velvet, silk, or thick brocade. Originally this piece featured detailed embroidery on the front. It was worn over a long-sleeved shirt or shirt, and was often worn under a jacket that was longer. Typically, these sleeveless, collarless jackets did not contain pockets, making for a much smoother, more body-hugging fit.
While early vests were worn for fashion, as styles evolved the vest-like garment was more often worn as insulation or as an outer layer providing additional warmth. Regardless of its purpose, the vest has maintained the same basic shape for decades to come, the variable largely being their length and the material from which they are made.
Both real and faux fur are a popular material for fashionable outerwear and vests. During the 1980s, as rabbit fur became increasingly popular and more commonly used in fashion, a long cardigan style became more favourable, a length that is still popular today. Hook and eye closures were a popular closure found on these garments. The zipper would be introduced later as part of the piece.
Vests are made from many different types of fabrics for a wide variety of uses. During the 1990s, the wool vest became quite popular and was worn by both men and women. These woolen vests generally reached the waist and most often featured a zippered front. Leather vests are most often worn for shooting and rifle sports – leather provides an extra layer of warmth and protection from the elements while keeping your arms free. Cyclists and hikers also wear a form of vest.
In the performing arts, a vest is worn as part of a ballet dancer’s wardrobe. Traditionally, male dancers wear them more often than female dancers. It is this type of garment that most resembles the ornamentation of the original waistcoats worn centuries ago. The biggest change to the vest may well be its name. Most people today refer to them as vests, rather than their original nickname.
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