Whether you were jamming out to “Sk8er Boi” or “Girlfriend”, the ubiquitous hits of Canadian singer Avril Lavigne probably left an unmistakable mark on your early 2000s — either thanks to aforementioned earworms or the former MTV fixture’s alternative-leaning stylistic sensibilities. I know I’m not alone in remembering how the singer would style traditional suiting separates like neckties, singlets, and cargo pants seamlessly on a regular basis.
And who could forget the form-fitting black waistcoat she wore on the cover of the now-defunct shopping bible Lucky back in 2007? In the photo, Lavigne sported a button-front vest worn over a crisp white camisole — a look that many have replicated over the years, and for good reason. The waistcoat is minimal, classic, clean, and has wonderful layering capabilities, especially during transitional seasons.
While I’ve even given the look a go a time or two, I’ve realized in my shopping endeavors that not all waistcoats are created equal. From breathable linen vests and cropped designs to satin and pinstriped lines, the internet is a prime hunting ground for plus-size and straight size-friendly options. Read on to shop all the vests and waistcoats cool enough for your inner Y2K superstar.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Pretty Little Thing Plus Cream Halterneck Waistcoat
Sizes Available: 12-26
PLT brings us this cream-colored waistcoat that is corset-like in its ability to cinch everything in, along with an open back for daring day-to-night wear. Buy the matching pair of tailored trousers for an effortlessly chic outfit combo.
Shop PrettyLittleThing
PrettyLittleThing Plus Cream Halterneck Waistcoat, $, available at PrettyLittleThing
Eloquii Long Tailored Vest
Sizes Available: 14-28
A longline, slightly oversized waistcoat is ideal for those that want less definition and are going for a more boxy look. This one is great for any back-to-work looks as well.
Shop Eloquii
Eloquii Long Tailored Vest, $, available at Eloquii
Cider Plus It’s Just Business Babe Pinstripe Halter Top
Sizes Available: 1XL-4XL (Shop M-L)
On a round-up of the best button-up vests and waistcoats, how could we leave out the classic suiting detail of pinstripes? This one from Cider is a bit more cropped than others on this list, yet it still gives us all the menswear vibes we all came here for.
Shop Cider
cider Plus It’s Just Business Babe Pinstripe Halter Top, $, available at Cider
Abercrombie & Fitch Cropped Satin Back Vest
Sizes Available: XS-XL
I own this A&F vest in mint green in an XXL. (It’s currently sold out.) This waistcoat is your standard simple-yet-chic rendition of this trend. It’s a shame that Abercrombie only goes up to an XL in the black colorway because this has been one of my favorite pieces in my closet for many months now.
Shop Abercrombie & Ftich
Abercrombie and Fitch Cropped Satin Back Vest, $, available at Abercrombie and Fitch
Porridge Seamed Stripe Vest
Sizes Available: XS-3XL
This cotton and linen vest is all about the details. From the use of natural fibers, to the adjustable waist, and blue pinstripe back panel, there’s so much more to this one than meets the eye. One reviewer loves to pair this with a “baby tee or cami.” (IYKYK that this is on-point early-aughts styling.)
Shop Anthropologie
Porridge Seamed Stripe Vest, $, available at Anthropologie
Free People Valleria Vest
Sizes Available: XS-XL
This lacy cotton vest is meant to be worn under the toasty heat of the sun. The breathable eyelet design practically screams springtime dressing.
Shop Free People
Free People Valleria Vest, $, available at Free People
UO Ali Menswear Vest
Sizes Available: XXS – XXXL (Some sizes sold out)
If you want a light, summery look like the Free People style but love the weight and feel of a more traditional waistcoat, then this muted beige silhouette offers the best of both worlds.
Shop Urban Outfitters
Urban Outfitters Ali Menswear Vest, $, available at Urban Outfitters
Eloquii Crop Vest
Sizes Available: 14-28
This plus-size-first retailer wants you to look like a luscious stick of butter in the best way possible. The cute collar and thick-lined oversized buttons are two standout deets we love to see.
Shop Eloquii
Eloquii Crop Vest, $, available at Eloquii
NastyGal Multi Check Cropped Button Down Vest
Sizes Available: 0-10
Plaid is a classic pattern when it comes to suiting garments. However, this green and orange check puts a fresh, modern spin on the good old days with its vibrant mix of colors.
Shop NastyGal
NastyGal Multi Check Cropped Button Down Vest, $, available at NastyGal
Wildfang The Essential Corduroy Vest
Sizes Available: S – XXL (Some sizes sold out)
Wild Fang’s clothing has been making queer folks feel good in their bodies for some time now. Snag this rosy pink corduroy vest — that’s equal parts dapper and cute — while it’s still in stock.
Shop Wildfang
Wildfang The Essential Corduroy Vest, $, available at Wildfang
H&M Suit Vest
Sizes Available: S-XL
Deep brown hues are having a moment in the fashion world right now. The mini lapels and body-hugging waistcoat are just what you need to look as sweet as Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory.
Shop H&M
H&M Suit Vest, $, available at H&M
eVogues Plus-Size Button Up Stretch Vest
Sizes Available: 1X-3X
This look has a bit more stretch in it than any of the others on the list. Stretch is great for hugging the more curvy parts of the body. This one is selling out pretty quickly, so snag it ASAP if you’re looking for a more fitted vest to pair with figure-skimming pieces.
Shop Amazon
eVogues Plus Size Button Up Sleeveless Stretch Vest, $, available at Amazon
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