Fashion Advice 48
Wearing Shirts with Sleeveless Cardigans

Question:

I recently added a few vests to my wardrobe. I am 22, and finishing my undergraduate degree at a school on the east coast, and I try to hold myself to a fashion sense higher than the typical jeans/t-shirt combo that is synonymous with campus life. That being said, I was wondering what was standard procedure for wearing a vest without a jacket over top? If I wear a sweater vest, its typically over a button up shirt (tucked or untucked depending on my mood) and I intend to do the same for my button vests. But, my questions really boils down to: is it acceptable, in a casual atmosphere, to wear a button up vest over a shirt that is not tucked in...or must the first layer always be tucked?

Answer:

I would assume the vests you are talking about are sleeveless V-neck sweaters or sleeveless cardigans rather than the normal vests worn within suits.

During my undergraduate days, I seldom wear the typical t-shirt/jeans combo. Much like you I would always prefer coordinating it with cardigans, shirts, and pants. Sleeveless sweaters are a great favorite of mine because it can be easily worn with fitted deconstructed jackets without feeling too tight around the arms.

It is totally acceptable to tuck out your shirt when wearing with sleeveless cardigans. It functions just like a sleeveless sweater but with buttons. But I would caution that your first layer of shirt should not be too baggy or lengthy otherwise it would create a very sloppy image. Keep the button-up vest and shirt well-fitted. It would give a nice layered look around the hip area when your shirt is tucked out from the button-up vest.

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