In the spring-summer 2026 season, the classic vest goes beyond the boundaries of a classic suit. It is worn instead of a top or integrated into layered looks with shirts or long sleeves. The traditional vest, which has long belonged to formal men's style, is today being reinterpreted through the prism of restrained sensuality and turns into one of the key elements of the season, without which a spring-summer wardrobe cannot be considered complete.
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Two types of classic vests dominate the catwalks: fitted, elongated silhouettes that emphasize the figure, and more relaxed, slightly shortened versions. It is in this balance between rigor and freedom that a modern look is born – sophisticated, but far from predictable. In the collections of Zimmermann, Dior and Emporio Armani, the vest has become a universal stylistic tool. On the catwalks, it was presented in combination with classic trousers, denim miniskirts, laconic shorts and flowing skirts.
Emporio Armani spring-summer 2026
Zimmermann spring-summer 2026
Emporio Armani spring-summer 2026
A classic vest is the perfect option for spring in the city: it maintains a formal elegance, but at the same time is lighter and more versatile than a blazer. A vest works organically throughout the day – from office meetings to evening outings – remaining relevant and casual.
In more fitted interpretations, it is worn as a top – without additional layers, combined with high-waisted trousers. In this interpretation, the vest completely replaces the classic top, offering a practical and at the same time elegant solution for the office wardrobe in the warm season. In more relaxed versions or in bright shades and prints, it becomes an accent element that guarantees the mood of the entire look.
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For daytime outings, natural fabrics and a subdued palette work best—from beige and gray to black and buttery yellow. In the evening, just change the tone a little: opt for a classic set or leave a few buttons undone—and the vest will instantly take on a more sensual tone.
This season, the vest has different interpretations: from shortened and maximally fitted, almost corset-like, to structured and asymmetrical. The lines softly follow the contours of the body, and deep cuts and thoughtful details delicately reveal the skin. It is this flexibility that makes the vest one of the most relevant elements of the modern wardrobe – able to adapt to any style and rhythm of life.
Based on materials from vogue.it