Why Did Men Stop Wearing Waistcoats (Vests)?
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00:00 Waistcoat Decline Introduction
As advocates of the classic style, we think waistcoats or vests boost the style of a suit and create a more complete look. The garment used to be worn regularly by men as part of everyday wear, but these days, we would only see them on special occasions with formal dress codes.
01:30 History of Vests
The history of waistcoats in western fashion begins in the 1660s with Charles II and the vest. After such historic disasters as the Great Plague and the Great Fire of London, people weren’t necessarily in such high spirits. And so, the method of dressing loudly and flamboyantly, as the upper classes had been doing around this time, was starting to tick a lot of the common folk off.
03:51 The Evolution of The Waistcoat
The vest styles worn in 1666 aren’t the same styles we know today. First of all, they were quite long, worn almost down to the knee and nearly as long as the coats that covered them. Some were sleeveless, while others did have sleeves. And if you think modern waistcoats today have too many buttons, wait until you try to get one of these on. However, these vests ushered in the more sober style of independent English dress, which was also seen as more masculine overall.
06:29 What Happened To Waistcoat Wearing?
The waistcoat continued to be worn well into the mid-20th century, with the 1930s representing its highest possible waistline. So, the vest or waistcoat was obviously a very popular item, as you can see with its longevity over the centuries.
08:21 Reasons Why Vests Disappeared: 1. Eyewear
10:02 2. Wristwatches
11:12 3. Changes In Fashion
14:36 4. Wartime Rationing
16:05 5. Central Heating
17:05 Waistcoats Today
Naturally, we here at the Gentleman’s Gazette are still big fans of the waistcoat, as we believe they can add a lot to the overall appearance of your suit, making you look more put together and more professional.
Not only do they disguise where your shirt and tie meet your trouser waistband, which can look messy, but they also complement your figure by providing a more slender appearance, disguising any baggy or wrinkled areas on the shirt, as well as preventing it from untucking and holding your tie more firmly in place.
They can also be used creatively as odd waistcoats with a two-piece suit, as we mentioned before or to break up looks even further using the Italian technique of Spezzato.
So, while there certainly isn’t a need to wear a vest as there was in the 1660s or even as recently as the early 20th century, we still think they have a place in modern menswear. And if you know how to incorporate them in your ensembles, they can look quite stylish.
19:29 Outfit Rundown
Excellent vid as ever, though at the risk of nitpicking, Samuel Pepys’ surname is pronounced “Peeps”
Thanks for the correction! If we hear any further “pepys” out of Samuel in future videos, I’ll have my pronunciations straightened out. :) - Preston
@@gentlemansgazette and if you happen to find his island, just let me know
I'm going to start calling him Samuel Pep-es from now on. It's just better!
@@kleinweichkleinweich Just LEMMINO
Correct. Generally discovered in English classes... perhaps Preston was a business, sociology, or history major and not an English major.
Central heating is the main reason I do like 3 piece suits. I often find I get too sweaty wearing a (suit) jacket indoors, but I don't like the look of trousers, shirt and tie. So I wear waistcoats as a way to remain properly presented when I inevitably take of my jacket...
@@cloaker416 I guess the association with waiters depends on many factors like the formality of the look, the choice of fabric, fit and colour. Black trousers with a matching black waistcoat and a white shirt would definitely give off that vibe 😅
Good take
This. Here in Germany we got a lot of people who work in more formal environments that are not very formal like banking and more semi formal like the educational sector, medicine outside the practical parts and so on who wear a combination of shirt, some semiformal trousers and a waistcoat. And its getting more as the three piece suit nowadays is often seen as overly formal in a lot of places.
@@theexchipmunk here in Germany I actually see waistcoats quite seldom. A two piece suit is much more common. But tbh, for me it's also 2/3 of the year too warm to wear a suit outdoors without sweating. That maybe changes when I get older though...
yep, also everybody always wants to have formal occasions outdoors when the weather is good so again usually too hot for a jacket. In addition the freedom of movement is a big plus.
As a woman I have to admit I've always loved it when men wear classic clothes and it's been disappointing to see the decline in the suit's popularity over time. To those men who still do dress in classic styles, please continue! And dare to be "different" by maybe including a vest here and there -- maybe you will help bring it back.
I’m with you on this. ‘Cause I’m still crazy ‘bout a sharp dressed man.
@@darlebalfoort8705 chasing the money or the style? 'cause you ain't about the man
@@JohnSmith-zk8xp it’s a pleasure to see a man look good. It’s not so much money or style, but beauty, self confidence, and self respect.
Suits are expensive. Fast fashion suits don't compare to fitted suits
@Drea I'm fine with your suggestion about men wearing classic clothes and, in turn, I would suggest you women likewise wear classic feminine clothes (i.e.: dresses, longer skirts, etc.). If there's one thing I've DETESTED since childhood (and I'm 39), it's seeing little to no distinction between men's and women's clothing styles!
As a female, let me say classic men's styles are far more attractive than modern styles. Very good video, very informative.
ikr😩🥰
It almost sounds like you're speaking for all women, but upon second reading I don't quite get that impression anymore.
As well as dancing
Note taken
ok@@Siberius-
The most flattering garment I've ever worn. Makes me look like I've spent double the time at the gym as I actually have, lol. I have to bow to the reality of routine triple-digit temperatures in the summer, but fall winter and early spring I'm rarely without one.
Same here.
Like 300ºK?
As a Persian, I didn't have any idea that waistcoat had its roots in Persian culture, albeit to some extent! Great video by the way!
A pride is brought to wearing one for it's cultural bridging and margining of styles, persian roots and a distinction from the flamboyant French, very informative.
That bit actually makes sense. People in Pakistan often wear it over a traditional shalwar and kurta (granted the style is a bit different in that the buttons go all the way up to the neck). Maybe something the Mughals picked up from Iran.
🌺🌺🌺🌺
@@umarahmed2378 but indian kings before the mughals came also wore kurta and payjama at night.
It's sad to see them go out of fashion. Such a good accessory and they really help elevate a good suit or still look good on their own!
On the other hand, it makes those of us ‘in the know’ stand out! Still a staple in my closet.
I'm not interested in fashion because I have style
@@julianshepherd2038 Fashion clearly has determined style throughout history, mlad.
In my opinion, vests are the middle ground between just the dress shirt, which can be sloppy, and the jacket, which is formal, becoming casual.
They are not out of fashion.
It is interesting that, although the waistcoat, as a part of a three piece suit, is in the decline, the vest, as an outer garment in informal situations continues to evolve and be popular. That is because the vest can keep the torso warm while leaving the upper arms more freedom of motion than a jacket. In hot weather, the vest can be left unbuttoned and gives more pockets while allowing air to circulate around the body.
Fabric and fit has a lot to do with whether a three-piece suit looks out of favor. If it looks like it has inferior materials and was bought off the rack, it tends to look to me like it's obsolete. If it looks tailored and has good fabric, it is timeless. All of this - in my opinion. Not saying most people see it this way.
As a kilt wearing guy, the waistcoat is essential. Granted, it needs to be specifically tailored (no Macy's off-the-rack).
You wear Man Skirts?.. do you carry a man bag as well?🤣
@Splite As long as they bring potatoes, and corned beef and cabbage along with those pretty red headed girls!
@@TheFriendlyPsychopath cringe. And also pants are bad for private part
@@fbyi2940 Image what happens when one of those beautiful red heads come along and your wearing one of those.😏
@@TheFriendlyPsychopath Well he has 155 likes. You, none. That should tell you your reply is silly.
I never got the memo - and now my vest is how everyone recognizes me, even with a mask on. And here's one other reason which will doubtless make you cringe: the vest covers the bottom of the tie, meaning the width of the tie is not visible, meaning you can take an old wide silk tie, give it a sleek knot (the only part that shows) and give the tie a whole new lease on life. Just today I wore one of my favorite ties from the late 80s, with a vest, and I think it works splendidly. A great trick, at least 'til wide ties make their inevitable comeback!
Remember 80's square knot ties? I have photo that will always be easy to date by that white knot tie I was wearing...that and the padded shoulders on the slick fabric jacket.
Yes! And if the skinny end comes out too long, you don't have to undo the knot and try again - you can just hide the ends in your waistcoat!
Same here, when did vests go out of style ?
You're invested
Same my dude... always wear waistcoats
I wear waistcoats almost all the time during videoconferences, when I am at the office or when I am out in the city. A waistcoat will emphasize your body shape (shoulders, arms, make your waist look ferm, better V shape view). I got many compliments when I was wearing waistcoats. It is an essential item and I actually see them more modern (than outfashioned).
This. I actually started incorporating my 18th century reproduction Waistcoats into my everyday garderobe. Its at the same time familiar and unfamiliar to people, which seems to be something they like. I was asked once where that style comes from and where to get one. That they liked the "new" style with the many buttons and pocket flaps. Was pretty funny to explain its a reproduction of a waistcoat made nearly 300 years ago.
I have them with suits, but do you find a way to use them in a less than formal way? I'd like to try
Have one with a hood attached, that carries just a bit of rebel, with a dignified trim appearance, love the combo with a sport coat; quite functional for inclimate weather, pockets for small components a plus.
Harvey Specter also wears a waistcoat in the office, and it looks great on him when his suit jacket is off.
it makes a guy look more fit imho
When I was a kid, we didn't have a lot of money, but as an Indian, one often has to attend weddings with annual regularity. To save on some money, and because kids grow, my mother never got us suits. She'd but us black pants, a white shirt, a tie and she would make us waistcoats using the same fabric as the pants. I spoke to her a little bit about it recently because of having seen this video and I thought I'd share her insight to anyone who's interested. 1. Besides being obviously cheaper than a suit, a waistcoat is also much more forgiving in terms of size. Shoulders don't need to match yours so they can be reused every year until they're too short. 2. You can't outgrow sleeves that don't exist. 3. The shirt could then also be slightly oversized as the waistcoat would essentially sinch and hide the torso. As a substitute for those shirt stays or maybe as an addition to them, waistcoats rule. Love you, Mom.
I wear one everyday for the extra pockets. I work both in a college classroom as an instructor and as a farmer, both roles benefit from having more pockets available. Plus, they just look good 😉
I went to a clothing store a month ago and all the suits they sold were three piece and had patterns, it's nice to occasionally see good clothing in modern stores
Waist coats are also very convenient for the performing musician, the pockets containing such things as extra picks, or perhaps a capo for the guitar. That's why I make use of vests when on stage.
Best to keep your capo in your pocket instead of on your guitar! When I see people who leave capos clamped to the head of the guitar while not in use, I wince.
@@Official_MikeyT Indeed! Same goes for battery operated tuners.
Do they have a use for violins?
@@dcarbs2979 Sure! Keep your rosin in a pocket. :-)
I liked suits after I watched Quadrophenia, I loved em' once I got a jacket (well one that actually looked good and fit me) finding out that they were riddled with pockets! I too am a musician and find that I need to carry more genuine physical items than the actual person.
I think waistcoats are very flattering on men, especially on a hot summers day when they have their jackets off and their shirt sleeves rolled up to their elbows. This is one of my favorite things about attending a summer wedding
In hot summer days I can barely wear my shirt, no way you would put additional clothing to that.
Sporting such an outfit is also my favorite part of attending a wedding. Undone top button, loosened tie, jacket off, sleeves rolled up with with a vest is among my favorite ways to be dressed.
@@cthomas025 I learnt how to tie a bow tie so I could wear it undone. “Tony Bennet cool”
@@ioannistsak9843 Wear shirt and chino trousers . You are done.
A well-made vest that compliments the ensemble is a thing of beauty!
Love this video- I always wondered why “weskits” went by the wayside. The world would be a more fun and interesting place if people still took pride in their dress. So tired of men in t-shirts, nylon shorts, and rubber flip flops. And don’t even get me started on ball caps…
It's awful. They never dress up.
Bu Bu Bu buuuut, it so comfortable!
Be part of it. Something I noticed brewing on the edges of fashion currently is wearing only a waistcoat to a simple shirt and trousers. Often a fine ones inspired by older designs similar to the late 18th and 19th century ones. I have by now also adopted it and have to say its great. It looks nice and professional but not to formal. Something you can wear in your free time and also in an official setting without it being odd.
I have a pet peeve of men wearing sandals or flip-flops when not going to the beach or the pool, but it's possible to take pride in your appearance while dressing casual. I live in a warm climate and typically wear shorts to work, but I make sure my shorts are clean and in good order, and while I wear a company t-shirt while working, I generally prefer shirts that are plain and with fewer markings and of quality material for my off hours. Because even though I don't dress up often, I still try to look decent. Unfortunately, it seems more common that some people don't even try.
I hate all those,no ball caps no t shirts no flops
Samuel Pepys name is pronounced "Peeps." The 1600s is the wild west of Early Modern English Spelling. :)
I wore three-piece wool suits in the '70s through '90s. For most of those years, I worked in and out of large computer rooms. In some cases the computer rooms were "fishbowls" where customers were paraded by. The big iron in those days was very impressive. It was important to look smart. In other positions, I did software upgrades in customer computer rooms, so of course wore suits and cordovan wingtips. The vest made if possible to stay somewhat warm in the computer room, while still rolling up the sleeves to work. I usually took my jacket off to "work with" the customer. A majority of my job was planning for any possible event that could go wrong. It was important to always display professionalism, especially if things started to go haywire. I never lost money for a customer, although there were some close calls due to hardware failures. Having alternatives paid off. I can't stress how important it was to have top quality clothes in the business environment, even as a non-executive. I got kidded for having a polyester tie in the '70s. After that, I always bought silk ties and pocket squares. I suppose that wearing good clothes now would be considered a major hassle. I considered it to be a privilege. Now that I'm retired, I just wear suits to weddings and funerals. I've kept my weight down, so still look OK in a vest. I hate to mention it, but the sixth reason for the decline in vests is that they don't flatter rotund torsos. All they can do is hide the too-short tie. I mostly wear Pendleton shirts and bolo ties when I go to town. Sometimes I wear a plain shirt with a sport jacket, but I still feel under-dressed without a tie.
can you guys also make a 20+ minutes video discussing about men's suspenders/braces? perhaps discuss about their history, why men no longer wear it, how to wear it stylishly, which to wear and avoid etc. it would be really beneficial for all of us! cheers
I love vests. I wore one through four years of high school and two years of college. I need to lose some weight, so I can go back to wearing the one I've got. I miss wearing the vest.
Personally, my suits feel incomplete without a waistcoat, and wearing one allows me to remove my jacket (say, if it's too warm or I need to do some kind of physical work) without feeling under-dressed.
I like this man's humor. Dry and on point :)
Im a more casual dresser, and my usual outfit is a white shirt (with rolled up sleeves), a waistcoat, and jeans (held up with a belt! Oh the humanity!) Ive received many compliments for it and im definitely thinking of getting some more bespoke odd waistcoats in different styles. Thanks for the video! Waistcoats for life!
I recommend going for historic reproductions. Late 18th and and the 19th century ones can be worn wonderfully as a standalone and have a great look if combined with modern shirts and trousers. Some nice dress shoes with it and you got a Rea
@@theexchipmunk where do you find these historic reproductions?
@@johnwilliam2474 Etsy would probably be a good place to start.
I think auto text got you. 'Humanity'. Lol. Has happened to us all.
I love them. To me, a suit is unfinished without them. But I have to say, when I say the suit must have three parts, I often get that "why?" look.
Tell them 'why do we wear trousers instead of shorts with suits? It's just proper'.
Do you feel the same regarding double breasted suits?
I agree. I recently got some suits and when my tailor asked “2 or 3 piece?” It didn’t cross my mind to not have a waistcoat.
Thanks to my long time working alongside military personnel (as a civilian), I found myself growing a greater appreciation for formal wear, the effort required for its upkeep, the attention to detail paid to it, and better yet fell in love with the discipline behind the appeal of formal wear. Personally, if I like waistcoats because it feels really snug and comfortable to wear and as far as I can recall, out of my 4 siblings (lots of 2 pieces suits), every suit I've worn in my life has had a waistcoat (surprisingly enough). Growing up, if I got a suit without one, I'd go find/poach a vest from deep inside my parent's vast collection of formal wear that'll fit the suit. To me, a waistcoat is like a small must have item for looking form Al. It doesn't feel right without one.
My husband looks great in a 3 peice suit. Wearing one helped him to get attention and his job. They found he goes that extra step and is a professional. I love when we go out on special occasions we dress up and folks treat both of us well. Taking the time to dress properly makes all the difference.
A small linguistic clarification: 'weskit' is the traditional 'assimilated' pronunciation of 'waistcoat', just as 'kubbəd' is the traditional 'assimilated' pronunciation of 'cupboard' (originally, a board or shelf for cups). We still say 'kubbəd' because we mention cupboards frequently; 'weskit', however, has reverted to what we call a 'spelling pronunciation' precisely because men stopped wearing them and so the word became less used.
I still wear waistcoats and have loads of them. I have loads of casual ones and I always make sure to have three piece suits.
I'm still sad that a gorgeous charcoal grey colored woolen three-piece suit of my beloved grandfather's was sold at a yard sale for a few dollars when I was a little girl during the mid 1990's when I was about 8 to 10 years old. I think that it was the first three-piece suit that I had ever seen in person up, so it stood out in my memory, and I really didn't want it to be sold. The suit looked brand new; granted that it probably wasn't worn often. Grandpa always took impeccable care of his appearance and his clothing. Apparently, the garment didn't fit Grandpa anymore, so Grandma wanted to get rid of it. Why the suit wasn't taken to a tailor and adjusted, I do not know; I suspect that Grandma probably didn't give him the chance. Mom hated to sell it, but she did so because her mother told her to and she immediately regretted selling the beautiful suit, especially to the person who talked her into selling it for much less than she had labeled it for in the first place, but Mom didn't hold her ground, and I of course had no say in the matter. Although Grandpa was a farmer, he was a very sharp dresser and was known as a prince among men by his peers. Grandpa was born in December 1922 and after a very difficult battle with cancer, he passed away in July 2005. Now that Grandpa is gone, I especially wish that I had his elegant suit as a keepsake of his. I could imagine a beautiful engraved pocket watch hiding in the welt pocket of the waistcoat with its chain extending outwardly, elegantly draping across the front to the central vertical row of buttons, just like I had seen in period films when the handsome gentleman would reach for their timepiece and flip open their special watch, often inherited from their father or grandfathers, or received as a gift marking a momentous occasion from a special mentor. I liked how the depicted pocket watches often had an engraved message to remind the owner of not only a special principle or purpose, but also of the one who gave it to them, and sometimes the pocket watches held a special photograph or miniature portrait, much like a woman's locket necklace. Both small, but intensely personal items seemed to always hold their owners love and secrets. If a man's suit does not include this very important waistcoat, then how can he carry such an elegant and sophisticated timepiece and all of the significance that it carries with it? I also think that a man looks far more "put together" while wearing a waistcoat even after he has removed his suit coat. I think that a well-tailored waistcoat can also help a man to look more fit and trim. Not to mention that waistcoats in a wider variety of cuts, styles, patterns and colors could greatly extend a wardrobe and give it a bit more pizzazz should a man want to change things up a bit, without investing money into several new suits, which could be too trendy or over-the-top for daily wear. Waistcoats seem to me to be a great "bridge" piece in the wardrobe as they are much more than what we could consider an "accessory" piece, such as some form of neckwear (necktie/cravat, bow tie, ascot, bolos, bandana, scarves, etc.), socks, belts, suspenders, or headgear, and yet the waistcoat can be treated like an accessory in the sense that a man could opt for either a waistcoat made of a matching suiting fabric for a sophisticated and more formal three-piece suit or he could opt for more of a casual mix and match fashion by selecting waistcoats featuring bolder colors and patterns to express his sense of style in a more overt way to pair with his wardrobe which is otherwise more than likely comprised of a rather subdued color palette as menswear is not known for its splashes of vibrant colors, textures and patterns. I do hope that the waistcoat makes a comeback, as well as hats!!! In general, I just wish that men in my generation didn't always look like such slobs all the time. When you look good, you feel good and when you feel good, your confidence (which is different and not to be confused with arrogance) is attractive to those around you. There's a good example of what I'm talking about in the film "The Intern" with Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway when she's talking about how in one generation society has devolved from Hollywood style icons into "men" who still dress and act like little boys, instead of sharp dressed, mature and socially adept gentlemen like De Niro's character in the film. I'm glad that this channel exists to help educate men (and women) who are curious to know more, but have no one to teach them about such things, so bravo to you fine gentleman for sharing your knowledge with the world!!!
Really good writing and you make a good point in an eloquent way.
I would avoid trying to state that people don't think they look good in whatever they dress in, and thus don't feel good. This is a subjective matter after all.
This is fascinating stuff. Did not expect to learn so much from a single garment. Thanks 😊
This is a brilliant video, Preston! Thanks to all of you at Gentleman's Gazette this chronic Super Slacker is actually excited to start working on a few outfits.
Why don’t professional associations for the suit industry not sponsor these videos ? They’re literally carrying 90% of new customers ! Great work guys 👍
Interesting video, especially the history. As a habitual waistcoat wearer, usually knitted wool, I find a problem with the modern progression of manufacturers dropping the trouser waistline to more of a hip line. This means that a waistcoat and trousers can separate.
Thanks. Thanks for this wonderful channel. I’ve learned so much from the three of you and am always entertained by your videos.
Excellent video as usual. In particular I'm impressed by your inclusion of the often overlooked influence of wartime rationing on fashion trends. (Women's fashion was similarly influenced.) It's also worth noting that some aspects of rationing remained in effect in Europe far longer than here in the United States.
My parents bought me a 3-piece suit with a waistcoat with false or sealed pockets like the jacket. My waistcoat also has a strap at the back with a smooth maybe polyester back. My suit isn't that good at keeping me warm as I tried in my Christmas party on 2nd December. Waistcoats are popular with some who like them as well as older people. Most people rather wear 2-piece suits or have a jumper or sweater vest instead of a waistcoat. I believe in a wider range of choice when it comes to clothing. I bet there are 4-piece suits which have a hat or you may get people who wear a jumper or sweater vest over their shirt but underneath their waistcoat and jacket.
Bro this is the best unintentional asmr I've heard in a while, other than that really interesting stuff. Cool history tid-bits and look into a type of fashion I do not regularly see.
Great video! In my day coming up, the boys in the board room all wore three piece suits and the lessors wore suits without waistcoats. I cannot explain why, it just was. I hope waistcoats will still be made. I always enjoyed them.
What I REALLY WISH would happen is that men would develop NEW, STYLISH styles, with brighter colors! I see men in other countries wearing such marvelous clothing, and it fits SO WELL!
We always have been! It's just that new fashions will always have a period of quite public disdain from the more conservative factions before they're finally accepted as more than just a trendy fad by all walks of life. Within living memory, it used to be unthinkable to wear anything less formal than black oxfords to work. At any workplace. But look at us now: we can not only wear derbys with loudly brogued wingtips into more formal office environments, but we can even wear "business casual" stuff to work at most other white-collar jobs. (And at some, even t-shirts are a-okay.)
@@HipposHateWater THAT'S not what I'm talking about. I'm talking about NEW styles, that are allowed to be bright and colorful! The t-shirts and business-casual things you're talking about are still just badly-made and dull-colored. It's never actual quality or stylish dress!
@@karenl6908 sooner or later with those desires of yours, men will be all walking around like emperors, wearing whole wardrobes. Too costly on production, natural resources, and would become very hot or heavy. Also these new styles would essentially divert into essentially people's ideas of the 70s and 80s with the wacky designs. An intentional forceful change on fashion just doesn't work. It's a long term cultural evolution. We can't just suddenly introduce new clothes for people to wear en mass. Those new fashion ideas you want? That's what fashion shows and models are for. To show what we can design, but know that those designs will never be public access due to the price and production. For a new mainstream fashion style, it has to be affordable and reasonable. That's why T shirts, hoodies, jeans, sweat pants, sneakers, and such are so widely used in modern day America, or the rest of the euro-asian world. We can make lots of shirts with relative ease, and we can change colors with ease, and print images onto them with ease. So, its extremely accessible. In this capitalist country, sorry to say but shirts are to stay.
The eastern European Adidas track suit is another example of fine sartorial elegance that we lack.
can you give an example of clothes you saw? I am curious
Never stopped wearing a 3 piece. Have been given many compliments from most people especially from suit makers when I request it.
Brilliant comprehensive video. Love the historical coverage.
your voice is incredibly soothing omg
Once again, an excellent video.
Waistcoats are essential if you only have a limited catalog of suits. For me, I only have a light and dark pairing (navy blue + black) for my pants and blazer; however, with different waistcoat assortments I can get additional mileage out of my formal wear without having to drop 3k+ on a fleshed out wardrobe of suits.
Love your videos! And I think waistcoats are great, I still wear them regularly, as well as hats and suspenders and occasionally bow ties. So nice to hear the history and use through the ages. Please keep up the good work for the gentleman.
What an interesting, informative video! Fascinating to see the historical influences.
Vest wearing also happened to more-or-less coincide with The Little Ice Age, when keeping warm outdoors was equally important as keeping warm indoors, with only fireplaces for heat. The virtual death of the vest closely followed the unusually hot 1930's, of Dustbowl fame, when there was indoor heating, but no cooling.
This is just pure class ,,, thank you gentlemen .
Very informative video! I watch a lot about the history of women's fashion but it's really nice to see how much there is to men's fashion too.
Wow I'm so happy I found this channel amazing video I'll check out more keep it going!
I’ve just started layering last winter with two different tweed vests I rotated. I also use them for cowboy action shooting :)
We used to do cowboy action shooting and loved it. I also love seeing the men in vests weather in cowboy gear or modern looks.
I didn’t stop. I’m in my 40’s. I receive a lot of compliments when I occasionally wear a waistcoat. People appreciate and respect the classics. They notice… THEY NOTICE. (It’s worth repeating.) It’s much like when they receive a handwritten card in the mail. Who does that nowadays?! Me! I do that, too. ✍🏼
Good man.
I do hand written notes with fountain pens. I even worked on my handwriting to make it extra special. My friends, family enjoy receiving them, and I send them to clients as a chance to thank them for using my services. I also suit up and often wear a waist coat for work, and am almost the best dress person there.
Love your histories. Very well presented Preston, thank you.
I am glad to have found a channel that goes into detail about the history of men’s fashion
i've always liked seeing men in a waistcoat, especially with rolled up shirt sleeves, they always look like the perfect fit of dapper and disheveled to me. unfortunately i live in a tropical country with high temperature and high humidity so suits are just... not the sort of thing you'd wear unless it's for special occasions. i do wonder if i can get a waistcoat tailored for casual use. mixing and matching for a unique look is an option i've been considering, especially since i also like pocket watches and extra pockets is always a plus.
Are white linen jackets common there? I had one for really hot weather.
@@BlankBrain not really, linens are more commonly used as shirts and blouses. but it wouldn't look too out of place, either. thanks for the suggestion!
White linen or cotton-linen suits with white linen or cotton-linen vests used to be common on the Gulf Coast of the US, which is definitely hot, humid and tropical. Sometimes with collarless white cotton shirts. Never saw anyone pair that with Bermuda shorts but who knows?
Love waist coats. Lets you go all out formal or a hair below all out business if just wearing the waist coat. Looking forward to getting a 3 piece tweed suit later this year. Good video!
Very informative video as always! Thanks!
Every suit I have made gets a waistcoat, even if I don’t wear them for much of the year (but they’re a godsend in the colder months). I also occasionally like the odd waistcoat with a more dressed up sport coat look (generally when it gets colder). During the winter, if I’m in a suit, it will be in 3 -piece mode.
The more I watch your videos the more I want to get a good proper suit.
You’ll enjoy it as much as you hope you will enjoy it.
And after one, there's opportunity for more! (In fact a good suit can create opportunities.)
I love this channel. It's soothing.
Thanks for this clear and thorough video.
Would like to see a video of the Scottish kilt and skirt for men in general
I wear a waistcoat everyday, I've got so used to them that I can not wear a suit without a waistcoat. Plus they increase the versatility of your wardrobe.
Great history lesson! I'm a big waistcoat/vest fan and wearing one in this day and age never fails to get a reaction!
As an Enby who loves waistcoats, thank you for the informative video!
Fall and winter is on their ways so I can bust out my waistcoats again and not burn up. Oh happy time of the year!
Fall is my favourite season, I do enjoy long coats and waste coats etc
Who says they stopped? I always wear one. On the other hand, I also wear a top hat and frock coat....
Must say, great to see a vid on the waistcoat - it's a struggle to find a decent 3-piece suit unless you head to tailored options these days - however, there is nothing finer or more striking than a well fitted 3 piece in the office or out on town. Don't forget the pocket square!
Why I wear a waistcoat every day. 1. I don't iron my shirts. 2. My job requires me to have multiple pockets, and stuff tends to fall out of my pants pockets. 3. I now live in Australia and its far too hot to wear a jacket most if the year, but I still need the pockets.
I think the title of this video is a very broad statement and its veracity will depend largely on one's location and surroundings. Contrary to that statement, I find that waistcoats seem to become more and more of a substitute for actual suit jackets. But that is just my experience. In any way, I love and wear vests and waistcoats, regardless of current "fashion".
I've got many vests, waistcoats and the only missing piece from my collection is a silk waistcoat with silver buttons like my city's old style...
Well researched and presented.
I have been a businessman for many years, and especially like to wear the vest in the wintertime.
The way we're stacking technological trinkets these days, I wouldn't be surprised that vests make a come back
love my vests, always a nice way to dress up without going full suit, never cared for the double breasted variation as it always seemed to being "too much"
I really like the look of a vest. Thank you for this video. That makes sense to eliminate the best when wearing a vest.
Excellent video as usual! I absolutely love vests, a longer vest can hide the bulge I still have even after losing tons of weight
Let's reverse that trend!
Sad to see such nice clothes lost to utilitarianism. If an article of clothing isn't needed it's completely discarded. Reminds me of when I wanted to do some extra schoolwork for fun but my mom said not to cause there's "no use" doing it if the school doesn't require it. It's that attitude that is really ruining society nowadays. The idea that if something isn't useful, it should be forgotten completely
if you dont want to be bullied or be odd, its natural to follow the crowd
Love your photo
As for the extra schoolwork, just say you feel like you need more practice. Homework is ideally to provide practice on new concepts. Some students need more practice than others.
There's nothing particularly nice about roasting to death in an unnecessary layer of clothing. I've got no issue with people choosing to wear them, but let's be clear about the fact that there's roughly 2 weeks out of the entire year where the extra layer isn't really uncomfortable.
That's not quite what that means... you're not alone in that understanding though. - Utilitarianism is a family of normative ethical theories that prescribe actions that maximize happiness and well-being for all affected individuals - The doctrine that an action is right in so far as it promotes happiness, and that the greatest happiness of the greatest number should be the guiding principle of conduct. If doing certain extra homework is adding to your wellbeing/the overall wellbeing (actual wellbeing, overall), then utilitarianism is on your side in that situation with your mother. If something actually had no use, including no one caring about the thing, then utilitarianism just doesn't enter the picture there at all. The concept is not concerned with things needing a use.
Great channel! The video reminds me of the phrase" Nice suit, John Phillips London"
lol.. three weeks later... your delivery is wonderful. it makes me feel like im actually asking for advice in a sartorial bazaar and have stumbled across a true expert. THe David Attenborough of dapper style
in the UK we had a big Revival of the waistcoat thanks to Peaky Binders and Garth Southgate🇬🇧
I'm not much of an expert but for me, waistcoats are apt to serve as a statement piece, next to shoes! Nowadays, waistcoats are quite pricey but there are some online stores along with second-hand items that pave the way for waistcoat lovers who are on a budget.
They're expensive? I bought 2 over the summer for £70 between them which I didn't think was too bad. Italian fabric too.
a wonderful and wholistic presentation. well done! Thank you.
Thks & your knowledge is amazing
I didn't stop wearing vests. I just don't have enough shirts that match my black vests, so I don't always wear it whenever I go outdoors. It's not easy to pull off the style I want since I have to take into account Florida heat...
Silk
You forgot to mention one of the most interesting things about waistcoats: why they are traditionally worn with the bottom button undone. The story is that King Edward of Britain was a notorious hedonist, who indulged copiously in the pleasures of racing, "courtesans" and of course, food and drink. His waistline expanded so quickly that his frustrated tailor literally couldn't keep up, and so the King developed the habit of undoing the lowest button on his tight-fitting waistcoats for comfort. Thus began the fashion for all men to wear this button undone.
Bloody hilarious, thanks for sharing. I can't wait to retell it.
Is it also the reason why suits have bottom button undone too?
That just happens naturally for me when I sit or bend over. >.>
Edward was king of England not Britain. The British monarch came to be in 1707 some 600 years after Edward died
@@JohnSmith-vw2hr Edward VII, King of Britain 1901-1910. His nickname was "Bertie" and he was a notorious playboy.
I recently discovered your channel. It's a fun watch. What's especially funny is the fact I haven't had any kind of suit since high school. Considering I'm 64 that means it's been awhile. But as I get closer to retirement I have been considering getting one. I intend to visit Italy again in a few years and I believe while I'm there having a tailored suit made. Something very nice. Anyway so even though I don't have a suit, I do wear vests. For me it's about comfort and warmth. As a outdoorsman I love vests. Extra warmth without restricting my arms is a big plus. Anyway again great video and have a great day. 😀👍🌤
Never went away. Wore one to my last interview.
I fail to express myself when I have my country, Brazil, extremely well represented in this film
Many European people would disagree with the term "weskit" being a corruption of the pronunciation. It's the pronunciation still in England today.
In this case, 'corruption' isn't necessarily a negative. It just means differing to the original.
@@insertnamehere001 How was it originally pronounced? From what I've read, that was the original pronunciation.
@@paulherman5822...Waistcoat...
@@insertnamehere001 And consider the British pronunciation of Worcestershire... Probably pre-vowel shift.
Very nice and I would think that's simply.your normal speech speed. It's very easy to listen to and I appreciate that you really know your subject.
Thanks Preston.
When I was bartending, the vest was indeed very practical as I had to wear a white shirt and tie. It kept the tie out of the way and the black vest hid any spillage. It also made me look slim. 👍 However, I also rolled up my sleeves because I washed my own glasses.
I remember wearing these with a suit as a little kid in the 80s, then the 90's happen.
That was quite educational. Came here hoping to learn more about weskits (reading the word waistcoat and hearing Weskit is disconcerting). Also, the tidbit about cumberbunds was fascinating.
thank you, learned something new today
It won't be exceptionally popular here, but I ended up in dress pants and waistcoat as a way to avoid wearing a suit jacket and tie. I worked in a professional environment where my boss preferred a professional look, but I, like the man below, didn't like wearing a suit jacket and did not like a lonely tie. The waistcoat was apparently an arbitrarily appropriate amount of material in the eyes of my boss so I wore that instead. I do love the way I look in a three piece, but for working all day; pants, shirt, braces, and waistcoat was much more comfortable. Was also easier to present in rolled up sleeves.