Forget "Sweater Weather": Stylish Vests for Fall

Hooray for fall! Soon enough, cool air will have us yearning for cozy clothes…but before you begin a Pinterest board chock full of twenty-somethings in chunky sweaters quietly sipping cappuccinos, I urge you to think a little outside the box, and maybe a little more on-trend to your cool-momma day-to-day.

While the ubiquitous “sweater weather” look (read: chunky knit tunic, leggings, knee high boots, felt floppy hat, massive sunglasses, and requisite coffee) is emblazoned all over social media, the vibe sorta gets lost on those of us toting around toddlers or getting ready for school drop off. (Do you really have the peripheral vision to back out your SUV in that floppy hat and HUGE set of sunnies? Yeah, I didn’t think so.) Let’s keep this entire Pinterest phenomenon for your younger sister’s jaunt out of the city to go ~~day-drinking~~ um, apple picking with her friends and envision ourselves a chicer fall layer, no?

Enter the oft-overlooked vest. If you’re a momma on a mission for some adorable transitional layers this season, you don’t have to look beyond your standard shopping haunts to find a vest that works for you. From minimalist to rocker-chic, boho to vintage, vests are a more on-trend, sophisticated wardrobe piece than last season’s sweaters. Here are some fab vests for fall that will bring you into the season with style, grace, and major momma-fashion substance.

More Fall Fashion:

Why the Vest Is Where It’s At for Fall

Zara embroidered waistcoat

Zara recently released a special edition embroidered waistcoat, $129, that is a transitional weather godsend. Wear it atop your summer sundress now, or layer it with an LBD and wool stockings later in the season.
Anthropologie draped trench vest

This Anthro draped trench vest, $148, is everything all-weather style. I love the slouchy look for a casual weekend vibe, but I would also make it a staple for work days when I need to run into the city, but still carve out some stellar mommy-and-me time at the end of the day with my daughter.
Zara Jacquard waistcoat

Fashionista mommies will adore this jacquard waistcoat by Zara, $129, for its retro vibe, and pair it with coordinating pants, a black crop top, and a messenger bag. But if you're just not that daring, that's okay, too. Think about how sleek this piece would look with your standby black basics.
Lake City vest

A little bit country, a little bit rock 'n' roll...and the perfect little something to slip on for an instantaneous uplift of style. The Lake City Vest, $148, is available at Anthropologie.
Blank Denim fringe vest

Fringe is everywhere this fall, and this Blank Denim version, $88, sits at the perfect price point to test the market without ODing on the trend and looking like a cowgirl. The vibe is understated yet casual, and this piece is also sturdy enough to withstand little hands that are bound to be tearing at your (vest) strings all day.
GAP stonewashed denim vest

Good old GAP pulled through with an amazing denim vest that is currently on sale for only $29.99 (grab them before they're gone, ladies). I love the idea of layering this apiece top an oversized flannel and some skinny jeans---a not QUITE lumberjack/Canadian tuxedo look that's fun without being too young.
Joie cardigan

I have a few modernist mommy friends who would love the lines of Joie's Ligiere cardigan, $348. The boiled wool knit has an oversized fold-over collar that's insta-chic, no matter where you wear it.
BB Dakota vest

BB Dakota's Duncan vest, $140, has the feel of a soft blanket (perfect for cozying the kiddies under on a cool fall walk, or for brisk solo coffee-shop trips post school drop offs).
J.Crew puffer

About five years ago, I bought myself a J. Crew down puffer for a mere $120 and never looked back. It's been with me through nearly every fall day, from early pregnancy, to concealing a postpartum pooch, to toting around a toddler. This season's version comes in a great palette of autumnal colors...check them all out here. (And note the awesome styling inspiration as well!)
Zara wool waistcoat

Look closely, ladies, because that's no jacket. It's Zara's latest wool waistcoat with a faux fur collar, $189---instant polish for last minute date nights with your hubby!
Mason by Michelle Mason vest

Looking to rev up your look but over the moto-jacket thing? This Mason by Michelle Mason vest, $897, is selling like hotcakes on Shopbop, and for good reason. The price tag is somewhat high, but the re-wear quotient is high for the entire season: just grab your favorite jeans and tee and go.