6 Ways to Wear a Puffer Vest in 2022, and 1 That’s Majorly Dated

The most popular puffer vest silhouette in 2022 is definitely belted. But we’re not talking about the cinched ski styles of the ‘80s. Instead, these puffs come with a coordinating belt that’s intended to be knotted around your waist in a casual loop (much like how you’d secure a trench coat). The belt helps to maintain some semblance of your figure despite all the volume and makes this traditionally sporty staple feel just a bit more posh.

Style it: Topshop Puffer Vest ($74); Gap Vintage sweatshirt ($60; $41); n:philanthropy Scarlett Leather Joggers ($248); Public Desire Beau Boots ($56)

Balance the inherently rugged nature of a vest with an unexpected flowy or A-line skirt or dress. Midi lengths work best here, as minis will feel out of place with such a cold-weather staple and maxis will wind up looking heavy when paired with a bulky puffer, but you should feel free to play around with different color or pattern combos. Of course, a timeless neutral hue will always work, as well (though we must admit that we adore a pop of, say, brilliant blue).

Style it: A New Day Puffer Vest ($35); Everlane The Pima Turtleneck ($40); ASOS Midi Skirt ($32); BCBGeneration Beya Boots ($130; $105)

Puffer vests are a great way to warm up your core without going full marshmallow woman, but sometimes, you still need something else to help. Try layering your vest over a lighter jacket, like a plaid blazer or a leather duster, on particularly chilly days. The key here is to choose pieces that are slightly longer or shorter than your puffer—i.e. a longline blazer that you pair with a hip-grazing vest a calf-length jacket worn with a mid-length vest.

Style it: Stradivarius Padded Vest ($49; $35); Madewell Dorset Blazer ($175); Agolde 90's Pinch Waist jeans ($188); Tory Burch T Monogram Bag ($548); ASOS Eliza Boots ($57)

A maxi or midi-length puff vest feels dressier than cropped alternatives, and can more easily be paired with cute dresses or date-night options. On the flip side, it also helps to dress up more casual pieces, like boyfriend jeans, lug-sole boots and a rain-ready bucket hat. Opt for solid, neutral hues to really amp up those luxe vibes and give your weekend wardrobe a chic boost.

Style it: Pieces Longline Vest ($68; $58); The Hat Depot Bucket Hat ($14); Norrona Falketind Jacket ($469); Levi's 724 Jeans ($82); Sam Edelman Genia Boots ($180)

In much the same way that a champagne-colored long vest can elevate casual apparel, a sporty, cropped cut can add a much needed cool-factor to more tailored workwear. Opt for a solid hue with a clean silhouette (a belt is fine, but avoid excessive pockets or detailing) and layer it over your favorite suit, be it purple plaid or gray wool, for a smart and easy mid-week ensemble.

Style it: Frankie Shop Down Vest ($308) M.M.LaFleur The Yiyan blazer ($465) and M.M. LaFleur The Horton Pants ($295); Madden Girl Dafni Boots ($60)

Eschew wild patterns or bright colors for more timeless options to keep things feeling polished and not too casual. When in doubt, stick with no-fuss classics—a black vest, straight-leg green khakis, a slim-fitting long-sleeve top and a nice pair of Chelsea boots will get the job done.

Style it: lululemon Wunder Puff Vest ($228); Rails Kate Top ($198; $119); J.Crew Chino Pants ($90); Kenneth Cole New York Maple Boots ($219; $153)

It’s not that this look, which may encompass flat riding boots, skinny bottoms, a crewneck knit or a chambray/plaid button-up, doesn’t work with a cute puffer vest. In fact, it works really well which is why it has been worn to death over the past 15-plus years. There are so many more interesting ways to rock a puffer in 2022 (ahem, see above), so why not push yourself to try something new rather than reverting to the same old, same old?