Staying on top of the latest fashion trends can be a challenge in the age of social media when a new micro-aesthetic pops up every week on TikTok. Heard of the coquette aesthetic? But, when in doubt, we look to Emily Ratajkowski as our stylish North Star. The model, author, designer, podcast host, feminist advocate, and mother of one (did we miss anything?) always slays with her looks of choice and provides endless wardrobe inspo.
And she’s done it again, stepping out in New York this week wearing a waistcoat and cargo pants. Yep, sounds pretty simple, right? But that’s kinda the beauty of her outfit. Sometimes there’s no need to overthink it.
Of course, it is EmRata we’re talking about so there’s got to be a little extra something. Her waistcoat is not only cropped at the back but features a peplum waist and *plunging* neckline.
She paired the revealing top with sand-coloured cargo pants – a major Y2K look – and white Superga trainers. A tan handbag was tucked under her arm and she added a pendant necklace and choker while gold-rimmed large round glasses provided the finishing touch.
The whole look is giving us major dark academia vibes, a contrast to the usual see-through ensembles and micro bikinis we’ve come to expect from Emily. Instantly recognizable for its ‘moody preppy’ style, neutral color palette, and plaid accents, this trend has been around for a few years now. However, due to the association of textures including wool, velvet, tweed, tartan, and corduroy with the look, it’s often been confined to the autumn and winter months.
Em’s fit is a whole summer mood though, giving the aesthetic a seasonal twist we are here for. And the easiest way to recreate it is with a waistcoat. The tailored piece was a mainstay on the SS22 catwalks and is set to stick around this season, too.
So if you have yet to invest in a vest, what are you waiting for? Shop our round-up of the best waistcoats now:
Buttons suit waistcoat
Bina Linen Waistcoat
The Frankie Shop Gelso Satin And Grain De Poudre Tencel Lyocell-blend Vest
Hopsack Tailored Waistcoat
Tux Tailored Vest
Plus Tailored Fitted Waistcoat
Now 40% Off
Asher Tailored Waistcoat
Tailored Linen Waistcoat
Now 20% Off
Melanie Linen Waistcoat
Â
Alexandria Dale is Digital Fashion Writer at Cosmopolitan & Women’s Health UK. Covering everything from the celebrity style moments worth knowing about to the latest fashion news, there’s nothing she loves more than finding a high street dupe of a must-have designer item. As well as discovering new brands, she’s passionate about sustainable fashion and establishing the trends that are actually worth investing in. Having worked in fashion journalism for six years, she has experience at both digital and print publications. Follow Alex on Instagram.