The spenser and waistcoat: trendy (again)...

The spencer (sleeveless sweaters) and the waistcoat (sleeveless blazers) are back in fashion this fall/winter. But that's always the case because they are always ideal in changeable weather. Or are they really beloved and timeless classics?

A spencer is timeless
A spencer is a sleeveless sweaters and have been in fashion for so long that they either look very old-fashioned or super modern. Think of the classic  check spencer. The checkered spencers are looking as old as the Middle-Ages but they are super modern as well. Especially if these retro-items are combined with modern trends. We believe spencers can be both terribly ugly and timelessly beautiful. It just depends on how you wear a spencer and how you style it.

Tips:

• Be carefull with  a short spencer (this looks very 'sixties')
  
• Pied-de-poule, large checks and crocheted spencers, see picture below, don't do it, unless you are very hip and  it is a nice contrast with the rest of your outfit and appearance
• Too tight spencers: not done...
• A spencer that is too tight will soon appear as if it has been washed too hot or that you have (unintentionally) grown in width yourself.
• Do: nice and loose, casual, beautiful colors or a beautiful unique item.

Waistcoats
Waistcoats have never really gone out of style. They have evolved over time and have often adapted in shape and length. From super short and sexy to long and casual. And let's not forget that they belong to the workwear of many, especially the yellow vests in traffic (and demonstrations!), Protection for lumberjacks and nature guides, body protectors, business clothing and evening wear.

But it remains a clothing item "You either like or you either don't" ...

Tips:

• If you have big breasts, do not wear a waistcoat which is too small or tight, unless you want to draw attention to your decollete.
• Brown, beige, green tones quickly appear very dusty.
• Faux fur, body warmers, sleeveless wind jackets: of course, but only for the outdoors.
• A jeans waistcoat with texts? Well, that kind of depends on what your goal is for the day ... nice and rebellious, though!
• Yess!: beautiful tailored waistcoats with a white blouse underneath: always chic!
• Also yess: longer waistcoats: especially in autumn a nice garment to wear as an extra layer.
• Styling: long necklaces, pearls or a tight necklace: beautiful & sexy.

Summarized:
Every autumn and winter, variants of the spencer and waistcoat come along with the announcement that they are super trendy again. But it is really a matter of taste whether this will be such a success or not.

Would you like to make a nice waistcoat in Bouclé fabric? That is definitely recommended.
Sewing pattern: Newlook 6914

Would you like to make a nice chic, modern longer waistcoat?
Sewing pattern: Sewing Scandinavian style