Vest question

**Kiltedmedic** · 2nd April 14, 06:24 AM

I am looking on amazon for a vest to dress up my kilt outfit. Has anyone had any experience doing this? I read reviews and find sizes seem to be an issue. Also, it is the EMS memorial tartan, I am thinking gray or black in tweed material. Thoughts?

**Tobus** · 2nd April 14, 06:33 AM

You can buy generic "vests" anywhere, but they will range from good to truly awful. And just like any other piece of clothing, sizing is not consistent.

Keep in mind, also, that most vests/waistcoats made for wearing with trousers will be a tad too long in the front, and will interfere with the sporran. They tend to put those 'points' on the front that just don't work when wearing it with a kilt. So if you're looking for a waistcoat specifically for wearing with a kilt, you may want to consider a flat-bottom one. Or be prepared to alter the one you get to shorten it in front so it's not fighting with your sporran.

This site tends to have a decent selection, including flat-bottom waistcoats: http://www.gentlemansemporium.com/store/vests.php They may not be as cheap as what you'll find on Amazon, but may be better quality.

**Kiltedmedic** · 2nd April 14, 06:39 AM

And this is why I came here. Thank you, Tobus. Good points all

**Manxstralian** · 2nd April 14, 06:48 AM

I quite like the look of this one:
http://www.gentlemansemporium.com/store/003155.php

Cheers,

Cameron

**Kiltedmedic** · 2nd April 14, 08:28 AM

The problem I am having is that I have a 44 inch chest but I am only 5'7" so I am thinking online may not be the way to go.

**Tobus** · 2nd April 14, 08:45 AM

Originally Posted by Kiltedmedic

The problem I am having is that I have a 44 inch chest but I am only 5'7" so I am thinking online may not be the way to go.

Hmm. You may be right. Have you considered finding a local person to make you a custom waistcoat? Even just a friend who can sew? Waistcoats don't require much in the way of special tailoring (unlike jackets and such), and ought to be pretty straightforward. There are numerous patterns out there that they could follow to make you a waistcoat for your size. It may cost a couple bucks more than a generic-sized one off the peg, but it would be worth it to ensure a proper fit.