Puffer Vests Aren't Going Anywhere This Winter — Ways To Style The Trend

Puffer vests are the go-to outerwear of the winter, and for good reason. The insulated shells give much-needed warmth to our cores without being cumbersome, thanks to their sleeveless structures. We know that athleisure brands have perfected the puffer vest — Lululemon, Athleta, The North Face, and Alo Yoga boast gorgeous, sporty puffer vests. But luxury brands are also showcasing puffer vests, proving that the winter essentials can also be quite glamorous. Max Mara, Burberry, and Bottega Veneta have all created high-end looks with the puffer vest as the centerpiece. 

We're all about staying warm while looking our best, and winter can be an especially difficult season to style because of how much we have to layer for warmth. This is why outerwear presents a special opportunity to make a statement and have fun. Furry accessories are a great way to stay cozy while still curating a look. In terms of hands, leather gloves are the perfect way to keep a look sophisticated and stay insulated. As for legs, tights are another way to add one more layer when wearing a skirt or dress. Like these other winter essentials, the puffer vest is a great way to give your look some extra texture and appeal while navigating harsh winters. 

A black puffer vest is the perfect final piece to a chill, going-about-town look. Wear your vest over a pale blue knit and wide-leg cargo pants, as the perfect final layer for warmth. It also gives the look a final finish. The loose tailoring of the pants works well with the boxy cut of the vest. Keep the rest of the look minimal, with a tight ponytail finished in several braids. Accessorize with big sunglasses and a bright bag. 

The puffer vest is at its best when it's worn around town. Think of it like a sartorial hug, keeping you warm while you get stuff done. We're loving the look on TikTok personality @astoldbydomm, who showcased the perfect way to wear a white puffer vest. Domonique styled her vest with a green sweater, black leggings, white Converse sneakers, and white crew socks. In the caption, Domonique shared that she got her vest from Aritzia, so you can source the same Super Puff™ Shorty Vest for $198. 

Since wide-leg denim is everything right now, keep your look ultra trendy by pairing a puffer vest with these jeans. The oversized layering on the top keeps the look current. Wear an oversized sweatshirt underneath a sand colored puffer vest. The unique cut of the vest keeps the look interesting, while sunglasses and a butter yellow bag make for some fresh accessories. 

Puffer vests don't always have to athletic or casual. They can also work in an ultra-chic, professional outfit too. Wear an olive green suit as your base look and pull over a leather-looking puffer vest. The burgundy tones of the vest and the shoes bring the look together perfectly. Stay warm with brown, leather gloves and keep the slick look even sharper with a structural, leather handbag. Some very cool sunglasses are never a bad idea. 

Because a puffer vest is voluminous in shape, it works really well with a skin-tight body suit as the base layer. On TikTok, the all-women's boutique Jas Monae Boutique showcased the appeal of a chocolate brown puffer vest with a neutral, turtleneck bodysuit. Finish off the look with white, heeled boots and some chocolate brown accessories, like cool shades and a small bag.

There's so much room to work with the puffer vest. The piece not only adds warmth but it also adds a visually appealing layer to a look. Work a teal vest over black and teal tie dye sweatpants. Go for an '80s grunge vibe by layering a long-sleeved, banana yellow top with the look. Chunky sneakers and a logo baseball cap complete the look.