Bonnie Prince Charlie jacket & vest question

[TCH559]

I inherited a beautiful BPC jacket from a relative. It was made by Sheldon Kasman of Scarboro, Ont in 1983. The jacket did not come with a vest, but with two pieces of fabric that are shaped like the front part of a vest with three buttons on one piece & three buttonholes on the other. As I new member I cannot currently post a photo attachment to help explain this. Does anyone know, do these pieces get sewn to the inside of the jacket to simulate a vest? Thank you for your consideration.

[Downunder Kilt]

I would say what you have is the remains of a false waistcoat/vest. These used to be very common for white tie waistcoats.

I gather that, as you said, you have the entire front of the waistcoat including lapels. They would have been previously joined with tape at the collar area and around the kidney area (where most waistcoats have a strap and buckle these days)
These days you could use wide elastic to the same effect. It kind of assures that you remain correctly attired at a true black tie event, where gentlemen do not remove their jackets.

[Chas]

It is, as Downunder says. The main reason was coolness. It gave the look of an extra layer without the bulk. The design originally comes from military mess dress uniforms. Messes were traditionally, cold and draughty, or hot and stuffy. Wearing this, if you got cold, you stood nearer to the fire. If you were to hot, at least you didn't have the extra layer!

I have three currently, but am looking to possibly convert another two.

Regards

Chas