Image by: Gently
You can leave the algebra to the professionals, but the knitted vests are coming with us. Discover how to take on this season's top trending item.
Can you believe it? The men's tank top is taking over autumn. The tank top, of all things! This once humble layering piece is now a style heavyweight, effortlessly bridging the gap between late summer warmth and the crisp chill of autumn. Ensuring you’re warm enough for the semi-arctic temperatures that we can be faced, but cool enough to feel comfortable when the sun does makes an appearance, the tank top’s versatility is unmatched, adding both texture and complexity to any look. But let’s be honest, it can be a tricky one to pull off. Get it wrong, and you risk looking less like a style savant and more like, well… your old maths teacher.
I for one cannot resist the comfort and versatility of a simple knitted vest when the weather turns like it has recently. Whether you’re pairing it with an oversized shirt or slipping it under a blazer, layering over a tee or (gasp) wearing it with your bare torso underneath, it seems there's endless opportunities to work one in your winter-pending wardrobe. The secret to pulling off this trend is all in the styling. Opt for slim-fit cuts if you’re going for something tailored and polished. If you’re leaning into a more casual look, go oversized and chunky to strike the perfect balance between comfort and statement dressing. From plain block coloured vests in blacks and browns, to bright blue knits and argyle-print tanks – there’s something for everyone no matter the vibe.
Ready to call our bluff? Check out our edit of the nine best tank tops below. If only Mr Taylor could see me now.
Alpaca-Wool Blend Vest
£67.00
In a brown hue and with a high round-neck, this boxy tank top is ideal to incorporate into your everyday wardrobe thanks to its versatility and how you can style it differently depending on the occasion.
Donegal Wool Knitted Tank
£155.00
In a bright blue hue, this block colour v-neck tank looks great over a button-down shirt and would be ideal for injecting a bit of fun and colour into your work wardrobe this season.
V Neck Milano Vest
£85.00
Everyone needs a simple statement vest, which is why this v-neck black tank from Cos ticks all of the right boxes. Wear over plain t-shirts or style over a patterned button down and you'll make a statement in an instant.
Marlon Vest Sweater
£150.00
Simple yet slick, this ribbed vest from Carharrt WIP will look great on your more lowkey days with jeans and a simple short-sleeved top.
Double Stripe Knitted Vest
£65.00
Brown and cream scream 'autumn', which is why this double-striped number is a total must. With a shallow v-neck and a boxy fit, this tank can be dressed up or down with ease depending on the occasion.
Knitted Crochet Vest
£75.00
Adding a bright pop of red to your wardrobe has never been easier thanks to this blue and red vest by Bound. Ideal for those who tend to shy away from bright colours and bold prints, this crochet number is a great investment for the autumn.
Golf Logo-Appliquéd Striped Merino Wool Sweater Vest
£195.00
With a sporty vibe, this chic Mr P. sweater vest adds a luxury feel to any look thanks to the minimalistic design and muted colour palette. Style with all-black or grey to make a subtle statement.
Brown mohair argyle vest with floating threads
£695.00
If you think subtle statements are a bore and you want to bring out the big guns, then this orange and pink argyle vest from Marni might pique your interest. Made from a mohair and with floating threads, this piece really isn't for the shy.
Boxy Fit Knit Vest
£45.99
If you're looking for something a little smarter and incorporating a collar, then this boxy knit vest from Zara might just be what you're looking for. Wear alone or over the top of a plain t-shirt and you'll instantly elevate the most basic of looks.