Gilets décontractés

Heritage-inspired Pieces for Modern Ease

mens tweed waistcoats

Classic Tweed Vest

$59.00
Tweed Vests Introducing our Tweed Vest: meticulously crafted with timeless design and high-quality tweed fabric. Immerse in the elegance of these tailored vest that effortlessly elevate your style. Perfect year-round,...
Made to Order
prince charlie waistcoat

Prince Charlie Vest

$49.00
Prince Charlie Vest Experience timeless elegance with our meticulously crafted Prince Charlie Vest. This sophisticated and classically designed vest is tailored from durable 15 oz 100% Barathea wool, known for...
Made to Order
Chieftain’s Vest

Chieftain’s Vest

$79.00
Chieftain’s Vest Introducing the Chieftain's Vest, a testament to Scottish elegance. Crafted with meticulous details, this exquisite garment showcases a perfect blend of heritage and modern aesthetics. It is made...
Made to Order
Argyll Vest

Argyll Vest

$49.00
Argyll Vest Introducing the Argyll Vest – a versatile, stylish addition to your wardrobe that exudes elegance. Perfect for weddings, black-tie events, or pipe band gatherings, this formal companion elevates...
Made to Order
Kilkenny Vest

Kilkenny Vest

$59.00
Kilkenny Vest Introducing the Kilkenny Vest, A Scottish ensemble with this elegant and distinct style. While steeped in the rich cultural heritage of Scotland, the Kilkenny Vest sets itself apart...
Made to Order
Brian Boru Vest

Brian Boru Vest

$59.00
Brian Boru Vest Step into the world of Gaelic heroes with the Brian Boru Vest, a distinguished addition to your wardrobe that exudes elegance and pays tribute to Irish heritage....
Made to Order

Gilets décontractés

Waistcoats generate a certain dapper, put-together look that many suits simply are not complete without. Furthermore, they are able to stand on their own, dressing up a kilt outfit without bringing it to a completely formal place in order to allow you to enjoy an upright look during the daytime or even during the evening at semi-formal events. At Scottish Kilt Shop, we offer a wide variety of waistcoat styles, including tartan waistcoats and fabric waistcoats, for you to enjoy, both in the way that they are cut and in the patterns that are offered. Each one of the waistcoats on our site is completely made to measure, ensuring that you are going to receive a waistcoat that will fit you effortlessly.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION

What is a tartan waistcoat?
A tartan waistcoat is a traditional sleeveless garment worn over a shirt, typically featuring a distinct tartan pattern that represents Scottish heritage. These waistcoats are made from wool or wool blends, showcasing a variety of colorful, crisscrossed horizontal and vertical bands. Tartan waistcoats are popular in formal Scottish attire and are often worn at weddings, ceilidhs, and other ceremonial occasions. They serve not just as a fashion statement but also as a symbol of clan identity, with specific tartan designs linked to Scottish families or regions, embodying a rich cultural history.
Are casual waistcoats suitable for formal occasions?
Casual waistcoats are highly suitable for formal occasions, especially within contexts that appreciate or celebrate Scottish heritage. These waistcoats are both visually appealing and rich in cultural significance. Often worn at events such as weddings, state functions, and formal dinners, Casual waistcoats can be paired elegantly with suits or traditional Scottish attire including kilts. Their unique designs not only add a splash of color and pattern to formal wear but also convey respect for tradition and personal or familial heritage, making them a distinguished choice for formal settings.
What are the rules for wearing a waistcoat?
Wearing a waistcoat involves adhering to certain rules to maintain a polished and professional appearance. First, the bottom button of a waistcoat should generally be left undone; this tradition enhances comfort and preserves the garment's shape when seated. The waistcoat should fit snugly, without being tight, to streamline the silhouette and prevent bunching of the material. It’s important to ensure the waistcoat fully covers the waistband of the trousers to avoid showing the shirt between the two. Additionally, the back adjustment strap can be used to achieve a perfect fit. When layering, the waistcoat should be worn under a suit jacket, contributing to a classic, tailored look.
How tight should a waistcoat fit?
The fit of a waistcoat is crucial for achieving a sophisticated look. It should be snug enough to create a smooth silhouette without any fabric pulling or gaping at the buttons, ensuring a clean, tailored line. The waistcoat should lie flat against the chest and back, with the fabric comfortably hugging the body's contours without restriction. A well-fitting waistcoat will allow for easy movement and sit close to the torso, avoiding any bulking under a suit jacket. The bottom should cover the waistband of the trousers, ensuring no shirt fabric is visible between the two, maintaining an impeccable appearance throughout wear.
What is the difference between a waistcoat and a vest?
The terms waistcoat and vest refer to the same type of garment but are used differently based on regional English variations. In British English, the term waistcoat is commonly used, especially when referring to the sleeveless upper-body garment that is part of traditional formal wear. In American English, the same item is typically called a vest. Both terms describe a sleeveless garment worn over a shirt and under a jacket as part of men's suit attire. The primary distinction lies in regional language preferences, with no difference in the function or style of the garment itself.
How should I care for my waistcoat?
Caring for a waistcoat involves specific steps to preserve its quality and appearance. Firstly, always refer to the care label for specific instructions. Generally, it's advisable to dry clean tartan waistcoats to maintain the integrity of the fabric and colors. If ironing is necessary, do so on a low heat setting and consider using a pressing cloth to avoid direct contact with the fabric, which can cause shine or damage. For storage, hang the waistcoat on a padded hanger to retain its shape and avoid creases. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight to prevent fading. Spot clean any spills immediately to avoid stains setting in.