Vested Interest

by Harry Sheff

We experienced an unseasonably warm winter in NYC. (Is it safe to say it’s over? It is almost 60 degrees and sunny today…) What might be bad news for outerwear business can create an opportunity for vests to shine. After walking the trade shows in Las Vegas, vests proved to be a key item for the upcoming fall/winter 2012 season. Try styling them over chunky knits, woven shirts and T-shirts or Henleys to create a fresh, layered look. Grab your customer’s attention by featuring brightly colored options in your windows, like this neon orange one from Jack Spade ($295) or cobalt blue option from Ben Sherman Plectrum. Reversible styles add value by offering two looks in one, check out Silver Jeans ($98 retail) or Hawke ($199 retail). Spark his interest early by showing denim versions on the sales floor for spring. It’s not too late to pick up this one from Born Fly.