The clothes we pick for winter seem fairly obvious for staying warm, ranging from boots and long coats to scarves and earmuffs and mittens. But there's another accessory you might consider donning as well: the vest, which has both classic appeal and modern style.

Why You Should Wear It

Few garments are as versatile as a vest. It's great if you want to add a layer without increasing the bulk around your torso. Thermal vests, for example, are designed to keep you warm during the coldest times of the year and are a very real necessity in cooler climates like the UK and Northern Europe.

The vest is also a nice fashion accessory. Available in so many colors and textures, you can have plenty of fun trying out a vest with different tops and bottoms. And nothing says "classy" quite like a simple vest with a dark pair of slacks and a nice-looking hat.

How You Should Wear It

Making the most out of a vest in winter depends on how you wear it. Follow these tips to keep your vest comfortable and classy.

1. Avoid a heavy or bulky vest. You can still be warm while wearing something that's slim or matches your body's natural curves.

2. Be conscious about the color of your vest and how it complements the rest of your outfit. For example, you can pair an orange vest with blue jeans or a red vest with a green skirt. Neutral colors like brown, gray, and navy blue will match with just about anything.

3. Try a fur-lined vest for extra warmth and style. Just be careful about adding too much bulk with whatever coat or jacket you wear over it.

4. It's ideal to wear a long-sleeved shirt with a vest, but it's not strictly necessary. You can get by with a simple t-shirt provided you've got a good jacket to cover your arms. Remember, the point is to stay warm and look good doing it.

Image by Kristian Bjornard on Flickr