I’ll admit it, I’m an avid lover and wearer of sweater vests, but why is there so much controversy surrounding the cozy clothing article? The popularity and stylishness of the sweater vest has long been debated, ranging in popularity year to year it has recently become a fall fashion staple thanks to one Spencer Ried from ‘Criminal Minds’, played by the sweater vest enthusiast himself, Matthew Gray Gubler. Like most trends taken from the 90’s you either love it or hate it.

Overalls and butterfly clips may seem tacky to some, while others may have a collection of both. However, sweater vests differ from these other controversial clothes because sweater vests are the epitome of comfort and fashion. 

Before I’m portrayed as biased because as I’ve said, I own multiple sweater vests and I don’t intend to stop buying them, I detest regular vests. The hot back but cold arms and chest leaves you wanting more, or ends in you leaving it in the back of your car because it’s not doing anything for you. Now that it’s a known fact that regular vests are public enemy number one for me, I safely assure everyone that sweater vests are so much different. No more rolling up your sleeves when you get hot, no more buttoning up a jacket when the wind blows. Sweater vests keep you comfortably toasty without overheating. But of course, the most controversial element of a sweat vest is style. I’ve heard it be compared to something a grandfather would wear, or something you would see in a family photo from the eighties, but I’ve come to the life altering conclusion that no sweater vests are ugly. 

My evidence? Sweater vests are so easily versatile. You can put any pattern, color, tecture, etc. onto it and it will still look good. The fit of a sweater vest is somehow always perfect, too small or too large a sweater vest still just looks right. The biggest issue when it comes to sweater vests is styling it. No one, under any circumstances, should ever be seen pairing leggings with a sweater vest. Layering is also crucial to the styling of a sweat vest. Wear a shirt under to add dimension and color, layer on necklaces, or if you’re into it, a scarf. 

With the right styling a sweater vest can be worn in almost any setting and can look amazing. Sweater vests do not deserve the scrutiny and judgement they receive. They are not grandpa sweaters or outdated, they are incredible pieces of clothing designed to keep you cozy while making you look incredible at the same time. 

All in all, sweater vests have a poor reputation I believe is completely undeserved. Ask yourself, are sweater vests really ugly or am I just scared I can’t pull it off? You can pull it off. So consider, before you throw a hoodie over your leggings consider dressing a little more chic with a sweat vest and jeans. And remember, next time you see a sweater vest online or in a store, don’t hesitate to buy it, it could be a purchase that could change your life.