Just like the morning coat, some waistcoats feature silk ribbon edging / piping / braiding. Although it is extremely rare nowadays, I think it looks splendid.
Tone-In-Tone Double Breasted Waistcoat with Silk Piping & Silver Watch Chain
In case you want to be a little more extravagant, you might consider getting a slip. A slip gives the impression of piping or trimming along the visible waistcoat edge. It looks very elegant, and lately I have spotted it quite a few times, especially at the Royal Wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. The fashion of wearing a slip dates back to the 19thcentury, when fashionable men sometimes wore two contrasting waistcoats at the time.
Single Breasted Black Waistcoat with Slip and Albert Watch Chain
Bernard Wolf with Double Vest in 1823 by Sophie Rude
This fashion was particularly popular during the French Restoration (1814 -1848). In the painting by Sophie Rude, you can see the actor Bernard Wolf wearing a cream and red waistcoat. It was painted between 1819 and 1823.
The slip itself is usually made of two pieces of Marcella cotton fabric with buttonholes that are attached on the inside of your waistcoat; a one –piece version exist as well. In order to wear a slip, your waistcoat will need additional buttons on the inside which can be added very easily.
Single Breasted Charcoal Morning Vest with Slip
However, in order to really make it look decent, you will have to get it done by a reputable tailor. The tailor needs to see and measure your waistcoat so the slip harmonizes perfectly with the waistcoat. In London you should not have a problem to find a tailor who makes these. Otherwise, you may contact Ede & Ravenscroft – I know they make slips, but be prepared to mail them your waistcoat. Alternatively, you could ask your local tailor or alterations tailor to make a slip for you.
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The Waistcoat Slip & Piping, 5.0 out of 5 based on 3 ratings
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