On Repeat: The Sweater Vest & Ballet Flats Outfit for Late Summer
As summer begins to wind down, I find myself reaching for pieces that can bridge the seasons and work for both warm days and cooler evenings. One unexpected hero in my wardrobe has been this cotton knit sweater vest. It’s the kind of piece that feels effortless on its own in the heat, but layers easily when the weather turns. Worn with jeans, a belt, and ballet flats, it’s become one of those simple, repeat-worthy outfits that just works.
Wearing on Repeat: The Sweater Vest
My sizes: Vest – XS, Jeans – 8 Petite
I had no idea when I first purchased this cotton knit vest what an absolute workhorse it would turn out to be! I’ve been wearing it on its own for warmer days, or under an open linen shirt, and will layer under a cardigan or jacket come cooler weather. This one’s mostly sold out, but here are some similar styles from Karen Kane, Sezane (a more relaxed fit), J.Crew (fine gauge cotton), French Connection, Madewell, Varley, Nordstrom (a longer style), Talbot’s, Everlane.
Last week when I shared capsule wardrobe ideas for the long weekend, one of my readers asked for an alternative to the sandals shown. I recommended these:
They provide more coverage than a sandal, but the open weave leather still allows for plenty of cooling air flow. These flats can go casual or dressy, and there’s a nice amount of cushioning in the insole (though some may need more arch support). They are available in four other colors (on sale!) and run true-to-size. These from Madewell are also quite nice. Also worth a look: Birdies (with strap), Sam Edelman, Paul Green, Birdies (classic ballet, no strap).
On the Telly
Two of my favorite series, “Fisk” and “Wednesday” have new seasons on Netflix! If you haven’t seen it yet, Fisk is an Australian comedy, starring Kitty Flanagan (she’s also one of the creators) as a civil lawyer at the equivalent of a strip mall law firm. Quirky characters and absurd situations drive the short and amusing episodes. It’s a good one to watch to unwind in the evening.
Wednesday is a spinoff of the old Addams Family series, with Wednesday now a teenager and attending a Hogwarts-like-but-creepier boarding school. Danny Elfman composed the title music, and the series has a very Elfman-esque vibe. The cast is really good, with Catherine Zeta-Jones as Morticia, and this season Steve Buscemi joins the cast as Principal Dort. Ghoulish fun!
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Fisk is hilarious and Kitty Flanagan was also good in Utopia (another Aussie satirical comedy). Rogue Heroes (a British series) is really worth a watch. It is about how the British SAS started in World War Two. Completely outrageous, but factual (believe it or not). The open weave flats look a very stylish alternative to my usual sandals.
Absolutely LOVE Fisk. Blasted through the third season and will probably have to wait two more years for the next one.
Hi Susan,
As you are good at matching colors with seasons, I have a Q. I am an autumn and purchased a cotton gauze shirt at JCrewFactory in Seaport Blue (kind of a teal). I brought it home and held it to my closet clothing. You’ve mentioned that all your seasonal clothes can be worn together. I think it looks nice with my tans and browns but my jeans and my olive pants ?? ♀️
I’m not so sure. Is this Seaport blue an autumn color or is it too blue ? Don’t know if I should return or not as I am still in the return window. Can you advise ?
Hi Nancy, on my monitor that color looks more like Winter “Royal Blue.” The “Cenote” color looks more like Autumn’s “Peacock.” (But colors can be tricky to get correct in digital images.)
Thanks Susan
I love your outfit ideas, inspiration and overall style! You are the email I most look forward to everyday. And, now I will like you even more to know that you are also enjoying the show, Fisk! So, not only do you have style but a great sense of humor!
Thanks so much, Catherine!
I love “Fisk.” Binged recent season in one night.
But those shoes! They are cute but look uncomfortable to me. I have to have more sole support. Don’t see how older women can wear them with any amount of walking.
Hi Leslie, everyone’s feet are different. Personally I find these comfortable for light walking (errands, walking the dog), though I wouldn’t plan on walking for miles in them.
I am so happy sweater vests are back. I now have three, and I wear them to death.
Hi Susan,
Really luv this look! It ticks all the boxes! I have a cotton cable sweater vest and I wear a slim long or short sleeve tee under it.
Very versatile.
Thanks for the recommendation of Fisk on Netflix. Will definitely look it up.
Kris
I loved season 1 of Fisk! Thanks for the heads up!
I also love Wednesday! CZ Jones is terrific! I’m not familiar with Fisk. I’ll check it out. I’m looking forward to the Thursday Murder Club debuting on Netflix this Thursday. I loved this series of books! It stars Helen Mirren and Sir Ben Kingsley among others. I’m planning a watch party with a few friends who also love the books.
How tall are you if I may ask? I think you are about my size, and I do really like those jeans! (And want to make sure they’ll be long enough, but not too long)
Thanks,
Roxanne
Hi Roxanne, thanks, I’m 5’1″.
Another Aussie show that I loved is “Offspring” which I watched on Prime. If you like Fisk, I think you’ll really enjoy it.