For the days when you're dressed casually and a denim jacket or sport coat just wont keep you warm enough, I would advise employing a down vest to knock out the extra layer of chill.
A down vest is usually made of nylon on the exterior. It gets its name from the down feathers that are stuffed on the inside. What are down feathers? Down is a fine layer of feathers found under the tougher outside feathers on birds. They can be obviously be used in clothing. And also you may recognise the term from your comforter and pillows.
The work perfectly because they're a cinch to put on and take off since there are no sleeves. But add a surprising amount of warmth where it counts most. Your arms will be fine, they're only extremities, but keeping the chest warm is whats important. Ever seen Batman Begins (see 3:29)?
A few points on fit; down vests are normally cut a little larger because they're made to go over pieces of outerwear. However, I feel like in doing that, they allowed too much room and the result is a boxy silhouette. I recommend going a size down (get it?) to ensure a nice snug fit. The end seams on the shoulders should line up pretty close to what you're wearing underneath. And on the color, mid to deep blues and mid to deep greens go with everything. If you're feeling like an explorer then a canary yellow or safety orange would be a nice touch. And if your feeling festive then blow part of (or all) of your paycheck on a blackwatch number from Ovadia and Sons (see below).
Down Vest by Gap |
$99 (on sale!) $149 Tommy Hilfiger Patagonia |
$349 $965 Barbour Ovadia and Sons |