05 Nov 8 Ways to Style a Gilet
Whether you’re layering for the office, dressing for a weekend away, or simply trying to stay warm without the bulk of a full coat, a gilet is one of the most versatile pieces a man can own. This sleeveless essential bridges comfort and style perfectly – especially as you refine your wardrobe in your 40s.
Below, we break down eight easy and sophisticated ways to style a gilet, showing how it can adapt to any setting, from city strolls to smart dinners.
1. Layer It Under a Blazer for a Casual Twist
One of the sleekest ways to wear a gilet is beneath a tailored blazer. This look brings a modern, city-ready edge to classic tailoring, offering warmth and depth without bulk.
Opt for a slim, flat gilet in neutral shades like navy, charcoal, or black to maintain clean lines. It should sit neatly under the blazer without puffing out at the sides.
Try this look with:
A soft-structured blazer from Canali or Boss, layered over a lightweight padded gilet and a crisp white shirt. Finish with tailored trousers and leather loafers for an elevated business-casual outfit.
2. Add Colour and Contrast Under an Overcoat
A gilet can also serve as an inner accent piece beneath an overcoat. It’s an easy way to bring contrast and texture into your outfit – especially if you tend to wear classic tones like grey, black, or camel.
Consider muted shades such as forest green, burgundy, or rust, which complement autumnal palettes beautifully without overpowering your look.
Style tip: Pair a navy wool overcoat with a quilted olive gilet, cream roll-neck jumper, and dark trousers for a relaxed yet refined weekend ensemble.
3. Go Technical for Weekend Wear
Not every gilet needs to be formal. Technical and performance gilets – often crafted from water-resistant nylon or filled with lightweight down – are perfect for casual days, travel, or commuting.
These styles balance practicality and minimalism, keeping you warm while maintaining a clean silhouette.
Wear it with: chinos, a crew-neck knit, and smart trainers. Stick to subtle tones such as graphite or navy for an understated, polished finish.
Brands like Parajumpers and Belstaff offer excellent technical gilets that combine function with style.
4. Warm Up a Lightweight Jacket
If you’re not ready to move into heavy winter coats, try layering your gilet under a lighter jacket – such as a bomber, denim jacket, or blouson.
This approach adds warmth and texture while extending the life of your mid-season outerwear. The key is balance: your gilet should fit close to the body and stop slightly higher than the jacket hem for a clean look.
Style idea: black gilet under a blue jacket, paired with dark jeans and Chelsea boots – ideal for a casual lunch or weekend outing.
5. Try a Shearling-Collar Gilet as Outerwear
For a rugged yet refined look, consider a shearling-collar gilet as your outer layer. It’s a smart alternative to scarves or bulky coats and adds a touch of sophistication to everyday outfits.
Look for gilets in leather or wool-blend fabrics with subtle detailing. They work beautifully over knitwear and flannel shirts in colder months.
Try pairing: a shearling-collar gilet with a white shirt, navy jeans, and leather boots – effortless and masculine.
6. Use Pattern or Texture to Stand Out
If you prefer to make a quiet statement, opt for a patterned or textured gilet. Think herringbone, tweed, or light quilting – details that add interest without shouting.
Keep the rest of the outfit simple to let the gilet take centre stage.
Style tip: a tweed gilet over a white Oxford shirt and navy chinos creates a polished countryside-inspired look that feels grown-up rather than rustic.
7. Opt for Rich Fabrics for a Refined Look
Wool, suede, and corduroy gilets bring depth and sophistication to casual dressing. These materials have a tactile richness that complements the mature man’s wardrobe beautifully.
A suede gilet pairs effortlessly with dark denim and a fine-gauge knit, while a tweed option leans towards a more British heritage aesthetic.
These pieces transition easily from city to countryside and never look overdone.
8. Keep It Practical
Lastly, remember that the gilet’s charm lies in its practicality. Choose one with quality zips, secure pockets, and minimal branding.
A slim, well-fitted gilet works for commuting, travelling, and layering – all while keeping your silhouette sharp and your outfit intentional.
Styling Tips and Common Mistakes
Do:
- Choose the right fit – snug but not tight.
- Keep colours balanced and neutral for versatility.
- Invest in quality materials that suit your lifestyle.
Don’t:
- Layer bulky gilets under tailored blazers.
- Overdo prints or loud colours.
- Let proportions clash – your gilet should complement your outerwear, not compete with it.
As your style evolves, it becomes less about trends and more about refinement. The gilet perfectly embodies that balance – practical, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish.
Whether layered beneath a blazer for smart days or worn over knitwear on weekends, the right gilet helps tie your look together while keeping you comfortable in changing weather.
Consider it a modern wardrobe essential – versatile, ageless, and undeniably smart.
Currently studying Marketing. I love spending time reading books, savouring coffee, and exploring new places.
- Yelyzaveta Тymchenkohttps://www.menswearonline.co.uk/author/yelyzaveta-t/
- Yelyzaveta Тymchenkohttps://www.menswearonline.co.uk/author/yelyzaveta-t/
- Yelyzaveta Тymchenkohttps://www.menswearonline.co.uk/author/yelyzaveta-t/
- Yelyzaveta Тymchenkohttps://www.menswearonline.co.uk/author/yelyzaveta-t/
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