A well-made waistcoat is a timeless wardrobe staple. It adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit, while allowing for endless creativity in fabric choice and design details. Whether you’re drawn to classic tailoring, modern minimalism, or something more playful, there are elegant waistcoats out there for you to sew.
In this roundup, we’ve selected eight patterns that cater to different skill levels and aesthetics, from structured and polished to relaxed and casual. Making a vest gives you an opportunity to sharpen your sewing skills, while creating a unique layering piece for your wardrobe. These patterns are sure to inspire your next project.
For professional tips on sewing a waistcoat, read Jay François-Campbell’s article. She describes a clever collar application method.
The Miller Waistcoat from Merchant & Mills
This softly structured waistcoat offers a relaxed fit yet polished look, for layering in cooler months or wearing solo during summer. Designed with a boxy silhouette, it has two welt pockets for a tailored touch, a simple stitched belt at the back for optional subtle shaping, and a six-button closure. While best suited for intermediate sewists, beginners ready for a challenge can tackle this pattern by omitting the welt pockets—as Molly Jean Bennett did for her version of the vest (see above). With its versatile design and timeless appeal, this waistcoat is a welcome addition to any handmade wardrobe.
This pattern is available in U.K. sizes 6 to 28 (bust 31-1/2 inches to 55 inches, waist 24-3/4 inches to 48-1/2 inches, hips 34-3/4 inches to 57-1/2 inches).
Women’s Everyday Waistcoat – The New Craft House
A versatile staple for any handmade wardrobe, the Everyday Waistcoat is the perfect layering piece to elevate your outfits. It can be worn over a crisp shirt or styled with a dress (we fancy it paired with a puff sleeve top or dress), this waistcoat adds effortless charm. Play with patchwork and quilting for a homespun feel, or opt for a luxe fabric to create a more refined look—the possibilities are endless. Designed for beginners, this pattern has a simple, single tie closure. The vest sews up beautifully in medium-weight, nonstretch fabrics like linen, cotton, fleece, or wool suiting, making it a fun and accessible project for all skill levels.
The Women’s Everyday Waistcoat pattern comes in U.K. sizes 6 to 34. Each purchase will receive the full size range, but the files will be separated into sizes 6 to 18 and 20 to 34.
Misses’ and Women’s Vest and Pants | Simplicity S9689
This lined vest is a wardrobe essential. It has waist darts in front and princess seams in back. The pattern also features mock welt pockets, button closure, and front buckled belt that’s sewn from the side seams. This design brings structure and sophistication to any outfit. For a polished look, pair it with the coordinating pants. Their stylish design includes front slits, slash pockets, a waistband with belt loops, and center-front seams.
Women’s sizes range from 10 to 38W (bust 32 1/2 inches to 60 inches, waist 24 inches to 54 1/2 inches, hip 36 inches to 62 inches).
New Look Sewing Pattern Misses’ Vests | N6914
With five sensational styles in one pattern, this lined, fitted vest offers endless possibilities for customization. All versions have princess seams in front and back along with adjustable belt in back, making it easier to achieve a close fit. You can select a single-button closure for a sleek look or a classic five- or six-button front. Choose to add a notch collar or wider collar, welt pockets, or button-flap safari pockets to suit your vision. Layer any version you make over blouses, dresses, or turtlenecks. This truly versatile design allows you to create a unique waistcoat.
Women’s sizes 6 to 18 (bust 30-1/2 inches to 40 inches, waist 23 to 32 inches, hip 32-1/2 to 42 inches).
Maison Fauve’s Pompon Waistcoat Pattern
Who doesn’t love a free pattern? Sewing up the intermediate Pompon waistcoat pattern is an excellent way to refine your sewing skills without a big investment. The vest can be worn over clothing or on its own, thanks to a higher neckline and armholes. It includes a lining, waist darts, five-button closure, and adjustable belt in back. With its impeccable silhouette and minimal fabric requirements, this waistcoat may be an essential project for your handmade wardrobe.
The Pompon pattern comes in sizes 34 to 52.
Just Patterns Veronica Vest
The Veronica vest is an elegant semifitted, lined waistcoat that celebrates classic tailoring with a contemporary touch. This design sits at the high hip and can be worn in any season. It features a five-button closure, front and back waist darts, functional welt pockets, and a back adjuster for a customizable fit. Veronica includes an alternative front design with asymmetric, six-button closure and a raised V-neckline, for a modern twist.
The pattern is available in EU sizes 34 to 60 (bust 31-1/2 inches to 57-1/2 inches, waist 23-5/8 inches to 49-5/8 inches, hips 33-7/8 inches to 59-7/8 inches).
Grasser Vest, №1116
This waistcoat is a refined and structured piece, designed to sit just above the hips, for a sleek silhouette. It features a six-button closure and round neckline, princess seams in front and back, plus waist darts for additional shaping. Functional welt pockets add a touch of classic tailoring. An adjustable back belt enables you to get a closer fit.
This pattern is available in US sizes 0 to 20 (bust 29.9 inches to 45.7 inches, waist 21.6 inches to 39 inches, hips 33.1 inches to 48.8 inches).
Know Me Men’s Vest and Shorts by Sins of Many | ME2071
For a chic, contemporary twist on traditional waistcoats, consider this lined front-wrap vest. It features a contrast shawl collar, welt pockets, and an inside button closure. The design balances structure with comfort, thanks to an elasticated back, rather than adjustable belt. The coordinating, elastic waist shorts offer a polished yet relaxed fit. They include a front slant pockets, fly front, belt loops, and contrast side panels. Back welt pockets complete the look, making this set a refined yet wearable addition to any wardrobe.
The pattern is available in U.S. men’s sizes 38 to 56 (chest 38 inches to 56 inches, waist 28 inches to 52 inches, hips 39 inches to 57 inches).
If you’ve made any of these, we’d love to see your work—please consider submitting a Gallery post or tag us on Instagram with #memadethreads.
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