December 1952 - designers propose decorated waistcoats

Decorated waistcoats knew a revival in 1952 London, with the newest versions made of  embroided tapestry and brocade. American designers embraced this ideea and brought it to the States. Popular taste among americans leans toward loud colors, stripes and small all-over prints. Waistcoats are worn to afternoon cocktail parties, sports events and in the country. Only the most conservative neutral colors or subdued checks are considered proper for a business office.

Chipp bowtie, $25, and waistcoat worn by Advertising Executive Oliver McKee (standing up) and a Brooks Brothers, $25, tie and waistcoat worn by Advertising Executive Edward Lawford (sitting).

Pheasant print on english challis (Chipp, $35) worn by Barclay Cooke has the same fabric in back so waistcoat can be worn without a jacket.

Melton cloth with brass buttons (J. Press, $15) is worn by John M. Seabrook of New Jersey's Seabrook Farm. Vest also comes in buff or yellow.

Symbols depicting interests and activities of Stockbroker Harold V. Richard adorn needlepoint vest made by his wife. Project took her six months.

Checked classic comes in corduroy (New Idea, $4) for pint-sized gentlemen, is worn here in the Princeton Club by Herbert Bayard Swope III.

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photos and documentation: LIFE Magazine (US) | Zetu Harrys collection.