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The waistcoat was originally invented in the 17th century by the British and has since come in and out of fashion over the centuries. Now-a-days however it is a regularly worn accessory at weddings, formal occasions and even at the work place. During the daytime four to six button waistcoats are worn with single-breasted suits normally matching the suit in cloth. However in the evening they tend to be much much lower in cut with just three rows of buttons. Due to the larger surface area of cloth with evening waistcoats they can come in array of forms with the ‘V’ and ‘U’ shapes proving popular.

It’s good practice to try and match the colour of the waistcoat with the colour of the bow tie. Black, white and grey are all acceptable (try and steer clear of the novelty waistcoat for a formal occasion). There are a number of retailers who sell waistcoats online however the editorial team have picked out a number of their favorite items from the following popular sites.

Moss Bros dress waistcoats

Choose from a number of top quality dress waistcoats from formal wear experts Moss Bros. Their range of waistcoats for both morning dress and evening events are popular with wedding suits and other formal events. Below are a number examples that can be found on Moss Bros’ site.

Ventuno 21 Slim Fit Marcella Dress Waistcoat. £49.00	Moss Bros Cream Swirl And Cravat Waistcoat. £35.00	STG Silver Grey Waistcoat. £50.00
Mens Sky Linen Wedding Waistcoat by Moss Bros Covent Garden. £99.00	Ted Baker Black & White Pindot Waistcoat. £79.00	Moss Bros Regular Fit Herringbone Waistcoat. £79.00

Marks and Spencer waistcoats

As quality menswear retailers it’s not surprising to know that Marks and Spencer have a good collection of over 15 waistcoats for men. Choose from 5 button wool waistcoats to 4 button silk waistcoats.  The team have picked out some of their preferred M&S waistcoats below.

Pure Wool 5 Button Waistcoat.	Limited Collection 5 Button Waistcoat.	Autograph Pure Linen 5 Button Waistcoat.
Autograph Wool Rich 5 Button Waistcoat.	Pure Wool 5 Button Waistcoat.	Sartorial Pure Wool 5 Button Striped Waistcoat.

Clermont Direct waistcoats

Along with their great selection of mens formal wear Clermont Direct have a number of stylish and affordable waistcoats for all occasions. Check out their dove grey backless waistcoat that is perfect for morning wear.

1/ “Many thanks for dove grey waistcoat which arrived this morning. Buying through you was a very pleasant experience with great customer service.” – D Sabharwal

2/ “The double breasted Irish linen waistcoat is an excellent product, at a very good price and the order was dispatched swiftly.” – T. Ashurst

3/ “I am delighted with the larger size waistcoat I ordered. The service from you has been excellent.” – J. Wakefield

Black Herringbone Wool Waistcoat. £39	Double Breasted Irish Linen Waistcoat. £65	Dove Grey Backed Waistcoat. £39
Irish Linen Waistcoat in Powder Blue. £60	Irish Linen Waistcoat in Salmon. £60	White Marcella Waistcoat.£45