Brown Paisley Tuxedo Vest

Paisley Prints

No matter the culture or origin, paisley prints have indefinite meanings and a universal flair. Despite authors Jim Mullen and Hal Rubenstein’s argument in their 1995 book titled Paisley Goes with Nothing: A Man’s Guide to Style, paisley is actually a very versatile print that can add just enough flair and texture to an otherwise ordinary ensemble.

Kidney shaped paisley designs are perhaps the most well known pattern in the world. The origin of paisley motifs spans the vast lands of Turkey, Scotland, and India. Thought to be worn as a protective charm to ward off evil demons, the paisley design gained popularity in the European Baltic states between 1700-1800. Look at the popular paisley print in history:

• In India, the paisley design was a symbol used for village people to identify harvest time. Paisleys stamped in various ink patterns on their hands helped villagers communicate when the harvest was ready for picking.
• In Iran, the paisley design is widely used today and blended with gold threads for an elaborate and formal fabric. Paisley prints adorn clothing, tablecloths, wedding dresses, pottery and gifts for the home, as well as landscape designs.
• In the United States, many associate the paisley design to the psychedelic Summer of Love in the 1970’s. Perhaps you remember John Lennon had a paisley painted Rolls Royce in 1967? Adding to the rock and roll appeal of paisley prints, who could forget Prince’s Paisley Park Record label? Paisleys are groovy here in the States.

Today, paisley patterns are a well known design fabric often used for curtains, upholstery and apparel. Although the paisley design tends to go in and out of vogue in home interior settings, paisley apparel has gained trend-proof, timeless appeal.

Types of Paisley Vests

There are many sorts of brown paisley tuxedo vests available. Men shopping this popular vest style can choose from corduroy, plush velvet, poly satin blended or natural materials. A velour or velvet vest will look best in autumn and winter months, while a poly-satin vest will lend a more formal vibe to your attire. A corduroy paisley vest is best reserved for casual dressing. If you're looking for an all around classic paisley vest, try scoping out a lightweight wool blend that can be worn year round.

When to Wear a Brown Paisley Tuxedo Vest

Paisley vests are perfect for business casual or play. They can be dressed up or dressed down, making them a perfect pick for a business suit or dinner and a date. If you’re getting hitched in the fall, a brown paisley vest can be the perfect choice for a renaissance or English garden style wedding, adding an ornate and classic layer to your formal tuxedo. Feeling conservative? Paisley vests also look great with a pair of loafers and a flannel shirt to ward off winter’s chill. Consider a brown paisley vest if you are a fan of Ralph Lauren classic equestrian style. Nothing looks more rugged chic than a brown paisley vest paired with a pair of broken-in boots and a nice pair of denim jeans.

Where to Buy

Brown paisley vests are available online and at local department stores and formalwear shops. Here’s a few online merchants who sell this classic piece:

• Six Star Uniforms
• Designer Emporium
• Gentleman’s Emporium

Unlike most traditional formal vests, you’ll find reason to wear your paisley vest again and again, making it a wise investment choice when building a timeless wardrobe.