Waistcoats are commonly termed as vests or at times even weskit. They are very similar to a sleeveless garment that is usually worn underneath dress shirt and at times necktie if the occasion demands it.

It is normally teamed up below a coat as a formal wear is incomplete without that.  Men waistcoats are quite distinct from vests and even the similar looking kind sweater-vest. They generally feature a complete upright gap in the front which is fastened with buttons or snaps.

Men have a choice here; they could either choose to go for the single-breasted or the double-breasted one. Certainly the single breasted one is much more common than the latter.

Tailors and fashion designers usually make take a piece of the three-piece suit in order to make a waistcoat. This is because the fabric should look similar to that of the one used to make the jacket and trousers.

People belonging to the last few generations still claim that traditionally individuals would actually set their respective pocket watches in the front pocket of their waistcoat that used to be stuck together to one of the buttons with a watch chain and fob.

However, this concept is still very much acceptable, although it has gotten quite infrequent. Waistcoats are one part of apparels whose starting point can be accurately dated as it was the great King Charles II who belonged to the Great Britain, initiated the concept of waistcoat and made it also a significant element of correct dress during the re-establishment of the British kingdom.

In the 17th and 18th century, Men waistcoats were manufactured in intricate and loud colors, even dazzling at times. However in the late 19th century waistcoats were strictly worn as a formal wear and for clearly formal occasions.

In the present scenario, waistcoats are considered to be and moreover are essential part of men's business clothing, and even casual dress.