The Genderless Evolution of the Vest

The inclusion of vests, the harbinger of the masculine attitude, into our lives dates back to very old history. Vests were first used in the 17th century by the King of England II. At Charles' initiative, they became involved in menswear.

The vests, which were inspired by the traditional clothes of various Eastern European and Islamic countries at the beginning, were created during the Second World War. It became popular during the Charles era and became an indispensable part of men's clothing.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, the designs, which were generally turned inside out and turned into vests in order to evaluate old coats, had a wide colour palette with the changing fashion understanding in the 1800s.

Vests, which were preferred by kings and statesmen as a kind of symbol of power in the first period of its emergence, gained a different attitude with the French Revolution and became more common among people. Especially in fashion circles and among the soldiers, supporting the vest with corsets was used to emphasize the figure of wider shoulders, a large chest and a thin waist.  

Entering the 20th Century

Visually supporting the show of power, this piece has become an indispensable part of daily wear in the 20th and 21st centuries. While the upper class removed the vest from the suits they used in daily life, the vests began to be used more as work clothes in the working class. In addition to this, indie groups started to prefer these clothes, especially in America. Vests, which started to be worn with sweaters and shirts outside of suits, are no longer a symbol of power and have taken on a more sporty stylish style.  

The Power of Genderlessness

Today's undeniable term, "sexlessness", also shows its effect on fashion. This term, which qualifies that clothes have no gender and is against the effect of gender roles on the individual, has almost left its mark on the 21st century.

This term, which breaks the gender roles of clothes, is also supported by many brands and celebrities. Especially in the last few years, world-famous stars such as Billy Porter and Harry Styles have also played an important role in spreading this trend. Various brands such as Balenciaga, Valentino and Vivienne Westwood also displayed their genderless stances at Paris Fashion Week.