How to Utilise a Timeless Waistcoat
In-depth Product Review and Styling Guide: The Eleanor Waistcoat by Fairfax and Favor (SS25)
A smarter layer for a slower, better wardrobe.
As a slow fashion advocate, I’m always looking for high quality pieces that will make my wardrobe work smarter; versatile items that give maximum value with minimum effort. Enter the Eleanor waistcoat from Fairfax & Favor, one of my favourite brands for countryside inspired styling.
NOTE: Any items reviewed here have NOT been gifted. They are personal purchases.
At A Glance:
The Fit
The Eleanor is a full backed waistcoat – a commonality in high-end tailoring, and therefore, doesn’t have any adjustment across the back, something you’re probably used to seeing on the more common satin-backed pieces.
What this also means, however, is that it’s important to get the fit just right and one that is perfect for you.
I like to wear this type of clothing form-fitting, so I sized down, given that it looked to come up a little big. That said, everyone is different, and this is just my personal preference.
Style, Practicality and Versatility
It’s a fresh-faced neutral toned garment with a subtle herringbone pattern - handmade in England, that makes for a timeless spring / summer piece. The garment has a beautifully contrasting satin-feel lining, ensuring it glides on effortlessly without any drag. It’s accented with antique brass domed buttons. Even the interior label (with spare button attached) has an antiqued undertone to it!
Rest assured, however, that it will also work hard during autumn / winter as an effective layering piece, given that it sits well under outer garments, least certainly the ones I tested. In short, it will undoubtedly excel in most scenarios - from town to country to field, given it affords practicality alongside undoubtable style and durability.
Have a look at the styling video below to get some inspiration for getting the most out of this piece.
My Visual Style Guide
Here, in the next video below, I present a more in-depth review of the waistcoat.
Steps for a Successful Purchase
It may seem obvious, but here’s some guidelines if you’re considering the Eleanor waistcoat, or similar.
Be Clear on Sizing
You want the absolute best fit you can get when it comes to any investment. It’s possible to spend a huge amount of money on clothes, but if they don’t fit properly then it becomes a fruitless exercise and consequently, you end up not wearing the item.
Decide on the look you want and ensure you select the size that best supports your style goal. Not everything is true to size and sizing is very random in this modern world, no matter where you shop! The best thing to do? Ignore the size label and try it on! Select what works for you. Talk to other people who have shopped the range – take a look at their photos if they’re willing to share. As I’ve already alluded to, I feel it comes up a little larger.
Try Styling it Multiple Ways
Most Fairfax & Favor products are deemed an investment. They’re created to stand the test of time, allowing you to take full advantage of quality materials and the longevity evident in the designs.
In order to be sure this piece is for you, try it in a variety of ways – on its own, over a shirt, add a thin layer, try under blazers and coats, etc. How does it fit in with your general style and your wardrobe? Whatever, ensure it will work hard for you, in order to get the most benefit in terms of cost per wear.
Avoid a ‘Boxy’ Effect and Gaps Around the Armholes
It’s really up to you how you wear this piece, however, if you do go for a less fitted look, you may find there are larger gaps around the arm holes, meaning that you might find yourself utilising layering undergarments more than you’d like.
Again, it all depends on what you have in mind style wise, so be honest with yourself from the outset and shop intentionally.
Waistcoat available at: Fairfax & Favor
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