This Week's Look

It’s quite a shame that the sweater vest inherited such a terrible reputation, thanks in part to the likes of Rick Santorum and other conservative, white dudes.

Which brings us to this week’s assignment, to reinvigorate the sweater vest’s status among the proletariat, banishing all preconceived notions regarding this controversial, yet versatile and potentially fashion-forward basic.

This week, we are asking our understandably skeptical readers to discard their prejudices and entertain the sweater vest as we envision it for women: a mildly androgynous and wildly daring accoutrement. Preferably belted, to accentuate the waist, and layered over a crisp, buttoned up oxford or a sleek, monochromatic turtleneck. Accessorize an oxford with a vintage menswear tie for a preppy, business-y vibe. Or couple with a flowing maxi skirt for a 70s, Annie Hall feel. The ruffled ascot shirt paired with the Ralph Lauren vest below is absolutely inspired.

We have curated for you below a collection of the best sweater vests, all available on etsy and eBay right now, and all chosen for their ability to usher in a new era of the sweater vest. Click on each image below to see the seller’s listing.

Vintage 1970s belted sweater vest from ShuuShuubyLulu on etsy. $21.

Vintage 1970s tangerine, belted knit vest from ShuuShuubyLulu on esty. $20.

Vintage 1960s mossy wool sweater vest with belt from lilynymph on etsy. $25.

Vintage 1960s cable knit sweater vest from AtticAddictsVintage on etsy. $28.

New with tags Karl Lagerfeld belted sweater vest. Buy it Now auction on eBay for $34.99. The buyer is also accepting offers. I would offer $28.99.

Vintage Army green, moth-loved sweater vest from dirtybirdiesvintage on etsy. $22.

New with tags, Ralph Lauren belted sweater vest. Buy it Now auction on eBay. $69.

Vintage blue knit, open sweater vest on eBay. Current bid is $20.

Exquisite, vintage Dorce for LeRoy wool knit vest. Current bid on eBay is $35.

Not your Rick Santorum’s sweater vest. Vintage 1970s, Aztec-themed sweater vest on eBay. Buy it Now for $22.80 or make an offer.

Navy blue, belted Merino wool sweater vest from Tory Burch. Current bid on eBay is $51.

Vintage 1960s to 1970s turtleneck vest combo on eBay. Current bid is $9.

Vintage 1950s cherry, virgin wool vest. Love the unique wrap style. Current bid on eBay is $20.34.

Vintage Sears Men’s Store belted sweater vest. Current price on eBay is $26.24.