As we look ahead to autumn and dream of (or dread) the cooler climes, there is one staple that’s set to dominate autumn capsule wardrobes: the waistcoat. And while the classic piece comes in a variety of shapes, Rochelle Humes might have just found the high street’s standout style.
When hosting This Morning earlier this week, she wore Zara’s fitted waistcoat, teamed with mini flare trousers from the same brand. The sleek silhouette, unfussy cut and statement buttons create a sharp and neat style, and as soon as we saw this waistcoat, we knew exactly what we’d be wearing it with come autumn.
Yes, it’s jeans. While there’s no denying that her tailored trousers create the ideal office-ready look against her Zara waistcoat, for elevated everyday wear this autumn there’s no chicer way to update denim than with a clean-cut waistcoat for a fresh and sophisticated style.
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This waistcoat top is simply stunning, with its high, round neck and shoulder-covering design cutting a sharp figure. The silhouette is so neat, plus the cotton blend material will keep you cool on warm autumn days.
While wide leg has long been the go-to cut when it comes to tailored styles, flared shapes are currently trickling into trends. Rochelle proves they're a sleek choice to complement the cut of waistcoat tops like her Zara one.
Rochelle finished off her look with this sleek pair of heeled mule sandals from Topshop, which created a stunning monochrome feel against the matching off-white hue of her waistcoat top.
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This top uses statement buttons in a similar way to Rochelle's. Here, sculptural gold-tone buttons create an eye-catching element that draws attention and elevates the simple, sleek look.
A nipped-in waist brings a lovely, structured shape to this option, whilst the rest of the design is kept simple for a chic and understated style. Try wearing it alongside tailored trousers, jeans or midi skirts this season and beyond.
Shoppers can't stop raving about this waistcoat from M&S, with reviews saying it's made from a 'soft' and 'quality material,' and that it also sits at a 'lovely length.' One reviewer even said, '[I] can’t believe how nice this is for the price!'
When it comes to knowing how to style a waistcoat, the options are endless, and Rochelle’s look couldn’t be a more perfect choice for smart casual outfit ideas. But we’re always looking for ways to give our most comfortable jeans an added edge, and this sleeveless Zara style is a surefire way to do just that.
Whether you opt for wide-leg denim or lean into trends with some of the best barrel-leg jeans, a waistcoat top can offer the perfect balance against baggier shapes. Thanks to the classic nipped-in waist and figure-hugging style, these sleek tailored staples offer a directional finish that feels intentional and perfectly put-together.
If the sleeveless cut is putting you off, it’s easy to add some extra arm coverage to waistcoats through layering. A simple T-shirt can be worn underneath them for a casual and relaxed feel, while a boyfriend shirt will work just as well underneath while also leaning into a more refined style. When the weather cools right down, throwing on a smart blazer over the top will lend your look a totally tailored feel that can transform jeans outfits into a seriously striking style, particularly in this tricky transition between seasons.
