Flush with the success of the Happy Trails Vest (another entry), I began to look at my purchased fancy travel vest with a more critical eye. Sure, I wear it on vacation, but that’s the salient point: it’s only good on vacation and only certain vacations at that. Its square, unisex construction does not flatter me, and it is quite warm. There are too many pockets; when they are all filled (and they are always filled), the vest becomes heavy, and I can’t remember where I put the subway tickets or my lipstick without patting myself down, surely signaling to any interested pickpocket exactly where I’ve hidden my valuables. I like the vest best for adventure situations in chilly, or at least climate-controlled, locales where having my hands free and no purse to worry about trump style and comfort. In short, I wondered: can a travel vest be fashionable? Can a fashion vest be functional? The “Yes, It Can” vest is my answer.

I chose Burda 7399 for its fashion-forward styling; I especially like the longer shape of the front, with its extra-deep pockets, while the peplum in back adds a flirty, feminine touch. I decided to make it up in a washable linen which I knew would wear well in my warm climate; the rich brown color would allow it to be season spanning. Because I wanted to keep it lightweight for comfort, I did not want to add a full lining, as I did for the Happy Trails vest. I chose a coordinating cotton lining and opted to line only the front panels to provide structure for the additional pockets. Then I got busy adding pockets, 7 more of them.

Outside – 2 pockets; this pattern already featured extra-deep pockets – in fact, should the need arise, I can fit a liter bottle of water in each one – so I made no modifications here.

Inside – 7 pockets:

• 1 smart phone pocket. I designed this pocket so that the screen is visible when the phone is in the pocket, AND I can use the touch screen without removing the phone – great when I’m on the go!
• 1 sunglasses pocket. Many retail travel vests are unisex with chest pockets in unflattering locations. In my vest, I placed both the glasses pocket and phone pocket above the waist but below the bustline , which preserves a feminine line.
• 1 secure ID pocket. Like the phone pocket, this one allows the ID to be visible without requiring removal from the pocket.
• 4 zippered pockets. I can securely stash cash, keys, credit cards, and other personal items.

That’s a grand total of 9 pockets all in one great looking vest that I can wear anywhere – and yes, I do!

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