In the space of a few days two of our editors featured the same chic-looking Reformation waistcoat top in different stories, and I found myself entirely influenced by the power of Who What Wear‘s unmistakably strong edit. We only pick the best of the best when it comes to products in our shopping stories, and the taste level of both affiliate editor, Emily Dawes and shopping editor, Remy Farrell is never to be questioned. So, one night last week when I was scrolling through our brand’s Instagram Stories, I made an uncharacteristically impulsive decision to buy a button-up vest that I couldn’t stop thinking about.
However, I think the urge was a long time coming. In fact, ever since I saw Monikh and Sofia Richie wearing the white long-line linen waistcoat (and matching maxi skirt) from Australian brand Posse, I was determined to find my own version—understandably, it sold out fast.
What I liked about Posse’s ’90s-flecked piece was the fact that you could un-button it to suit your desired silhouette, and with a higher neckline I could also tick a box for modesty, as I’m not often inclined to get the décolletage out. What I also knew, in advance of finding the perfect waistcoat option at Reformation, was that I really needed something to refresh my denim collection. I rarely stray from a white tee or jeans, and it felt like time to switch things up. Not to mention, I just had about 10 inches taken off my hair and there’s something about more minimalistic clothes that seems to work better for me when I have a bob.
And so, the decision to buy the Aspen Linen Top (£148) became a surprisingly easy decision to make. I find that Reformation can be a little snug on boobs (and butts) so I went for a size up from my usual, and the plan worked—this was a good fit on me. What I will say is that the cut around the armpit (for someone petite who often has to take things up at the shoulder seam) means that wearing a fuller-coverage bra is a little tricky, but if you are taller I don’t believe this will be a problem.. You can pull the buckle fastening at the back of the waist to bring it in or loosen the silhouette, and you could undo an extra button or two depending on the look you want. I’m almost tempted to buy it in white as well as black… but I do have one criticism: this little beauty should come in extended sizes! I’m absolutely certain there will be so many women out there over a size 16 who want to buy into this sophisticated trend, and normally Reformation is a trusted go-to for on-the-money styles that come in a wider range of sizes.
