Vests in the workplace

Hello gentlemen,

    Long story short, I begin the aircraft maintenance portion of my all-encompassing aviation studies this January. Aircraft maintenance is both a service industry and one where a mistake can cause some big issues, so those in charge of the program desire a formal, professional atmosphere. Luckily, this includes attire.

With that said, how does everyone feel about button-up vests in a more gearhead environment?

If they're acceptable, what styles would you consider appropriate (not over-dressed, and fitting for regular shop abuse/cleaning)?

Where might someone find decent vests on a college budget (say, <$40)?

Finally, does anyone out there have experience wearing vests regularly?

I love the looks, feel and comfort of classier vests, but I am a bit concerned about wearing them in a shop and the general dressier perception they carry. Your input will be greatly appreciated!

~Nick

Views: 312

▶ Reply to This

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by JonEdanger on December 10, 2012 at 9:03pm

I'd think a vest would be too dressy for shop work. YMMV

Permalink Reply by Nathanael on December 10, 2012 at 11:54pm

Something along the lines of Filson's offerings might work, though they're hardly budget-priced.  On that point, there's very little that's good that you'll find at the price you mentioned, unless you score something secondhand.

Permalink Reply by Chuck Knight on December 11, 2012 at 12:36am

What is your goal for wearing a vest?  Is it merely a fashion statement, or does it serve an actual purpose?

 

The reason I ask, is that vests are common in work environments, but not usually the dressier button up variety.  Carhartt and Wolverine both make vests from duck fabric, as a light weight outerwear.  Academy Sports sells them, over by the contractor and barn coats, in the back.  I've also seen similar "workwear" vests at stores like WalMart and Tractor Supply.

 

This one is sherpa lined...it just happened to be a decent photo I found on google.  But I've also seen them unlined.  They're sold as "outerwear" for cooler weather.

 

If you insist on the button up style, try your local western wear store.  Especially if you hit the right sale/clearance rack, the button up variety is fairly common, and they may even have a lapel. 

 

Alternately, a leather vest might also work.  It's definitely a tough enough material choice...and leather tends to look even better, the more you abuse it.

 

Maybe something like that could work for you?  Remember, there's a huge difference between professional, and foppish.

Permalink Reply by Nicholas Flatoff on December 11, 2012 at 2:31am

Well, I am hoping for practical wear that happens to look nice-not a suit vest or something. Thinking it over, I suppose a zipper is much more practical and doesn't look as bad as the picture in my head. 

I primarily like the feel of vests as an outerwear that's not too hot or restrictive. I just feel more at ease when I wear a jacket, sweater, whatever it may be; but those aren't options in the shop.

I do like the one you posted, and  stumbled upon these at one point and like the idea of this type of vest, but they always seem too baggy or insulated.

And yes, the thrift shops have been scoured with no vest success (though I came across a still tagged pair of properly sized Dickies pants, much to my excitement). 

Thank you all for the responses.

Permalink Reply by Chuck Knight on December 11, 2012 at 2:51am

Why not a denim vest?  Just found this, from Wrangler, and it's less than $25.

Permalink Reply by The Original Cody on December 11, 2012 at 2:57am

this better be sarcasm...

Permalink Reply by Nick H on December 11, 2012 at 3:46am

Permalink Reply by kjg on December 12, 2012 at 12:24am

A vest in an industry environment can be sharp, many craftsmen where similar gear.  Should be firm, hard canvas or leatherish material.  Should have some small gear holders, might help show distinction between fashion and usage to other men you are working with.

Permalink Reply by Nicholas Flatoff on December 16, 2012 at 1:13am

Thanks, that sounds exactly like I'm imagining. Would you have any suggestions for that type of vest?

Permalink Reply by JonEdanger on December 16, 2012 at 10:18pm

Don't do it. Think of it like a wrap-around pocket protector. It's teh ghey.

Permalink Reply by Neill on December 16, 2012 at 10:16pm

i wear a vest every day at work. i like the colour...

RSS

Latest Activity

Hyrum Higgins posted a discussion

Advice on whether to stop talking to a girl

I have liked the girl for a long time. Years. I'm 18 now, and for most of the time I know her, I mainly just talked to her. She doesn't live nearby. Tonight, I finally told her of my feelings for her over the phone. I shouldn't have waited this long but I did. She didn't return them. As politely as she could she told me that she wasn't especially attracted to me, and that my obvious attraction to her had made talking to me and being friends with me a little awkward at times. It was a relief to…See More
55 minutes ago
0 Comments
Brian Splash replied to Brian Splash's discussion Progress shots in the group Exercise
"Took some shots yesterday and I have not gained anything ."
1 hour ago
Rob posted photos
Thumbnail
Thumbnail
Thumbnail
6 more…
1 hour ago
Rob updated their profile
2 hours ago
Aaron Lancaster replied to Victor E. Franklin's discussion Life crisis/disillusionment/whatever
"Go bush. Here's a few wise words from James Elroy Flecker Go as a pilgrim and seek out danger Far from the well lit avenues of life. Pit your soul against the very unknown, And seek stimulation in the company of the brave.   Experience…"
2 hours ago
Aaron Lancaster replied to Christian's discussion Favorite Manly Poems
"How did this get this far without James Elroy Flecker Go as a pilgrim and seek out danger Far from the well lit avenues of life. Pit your soul against the very unknown, And seek stimulation in the company of the brave.   Experience cold and…"
2 hours ago
Jay Moore replied to Jay Moore's discussion Dealing with an ex post break up
"I have no idea what you're saying here.  "
2 hours ago
Brian W. Barrett replied to Jay Moore's discussion Dealing with an ex post break up
"This is a Mars/Venus problem. She wants to "help you" by talking about your feelings. You want to fix the problem. . . your feelings. Her talking with you about your feelings helps her. . . but tortures you and doesn't fix getting…"
2 hours ago

© 2013   Created by Brett McKay.   Powered by

Badges  |  Report an Issue  |  Terms of Service