The Vest Set Is the Perfect Dress Alternative for Spring

We’ve found the perfect dress alternative for spring: the coordinated vest set.

Finally, an answer to that question of all questions in the morning: What am I going to wear today? It’s especially difficult in the spring, when the weather doesn’t always want to play along and it seems like nothing is suitable despite having a full closet. It’s too early for those warm summer days when a light dress is all you need, but too late for the winter uniform of a cozy sweater and knee-high boots.

Luckily, there’s a new trend that is the perfect answer for spring. It’s as quick to put on as a dress and looks just as put together—if not more so. We’re talking about the vest set, of course.

Though they look similar on paper, the vest set isn’t quite the same thing as a three-piece suit. For one, these two-piece sets are all about comfort and ease unlike more formal suiting. Layering is less of a thing too, since the vest operates as the top. Put on the pants, add the vest top, and that’s it.

The best part about the two-piece vest set is that you don’t have to do much styling since the outfit speaks for itself. But it can be dressed or down, depending on the occasion, and goes with almost anything. Mark our words: In no time this will become your spring uniform.

The vest and trouser combination from H&M below, for example, is based on one of the biggest trends for spring 2025: power dressing. Clean lines, androgynous cuts, and elegance all unite to create a modern office look that is anything but stuffy.

H&M Long Suit Vest

$35 $28

H&M

H&M Wide-Leg Dress Pants

$40 $34

H&M

As far as colors are concerned, this H&M set is also in line with this season’s trends. Beige is the ideal middle ground for all minimalists who want an alternative to the classic black and white look. More muted color palettes—think cream, pastels, indigo blues, or earthy tones—also work well with the ‘70s revival that’s currently happening.

How to style vest sets for spring 2025

Compared dresses and jumpsuits, matching sets have a big advantage: They can easily be mixed and matched and worn separately. This means you’ll have a variety of outfits at your disposal, which will benefit your cost per wear and cut down on the amount of time you’ll stand in front of the closet in the morning trying to figure out what to wear.

It’s all in the styling: For a relaxed everyday look, the vest can be worn as a top, over a plain white T-shirt, or open with a bralette. Add your favorite sneakers and you’re set. For the office, you can wear the sleeveless set or add a turtleneck on chillier days. This look works particularly well with flat loafers or mules. In the evening, you can make a statement with heels, eye-catching jewelry, and a blazer or faux fur in a coordinating color.

Tip: While it’s still cold, you can easily make the two-piece suitable for winter by wearing a long sleeve top underneath or a light-knit cardigan over it. A blazer in a similar color or an oversized wool coat can also provide additional warmth while still giving the look an elevated touch. This versatility is what makes the two-piece set so indispensable for a transitional period like spring.

Shop the vest set for spring

The good news: In addition to the H&M set above, tons of other fashion brands have cool coordinating sets on offer right now. Find some of the most stylish options for spring 2025 below.