If you think that Hrithik, Sanjay, Sunny, John and the other B-town macho men can flaunt their vests with aplomb and so can you, then here's a think coming. Most men go wrong when it comes to wearing undershirts. But you just can't afford showing it off at your workplace. Here are some vest dos and don'ts for those who are yet to catch on: 

Many don't realise it, but wearing the right fitting vest can actually compliment your body shape. But too tight and all your bulges will get pronounced and too loose and it will spoil the fall of your shirt.

One big mistake that men make is not to try it out before buying. Vests, like any other clothing should be tried. Enter a store with a trial room and you are sure to find a comfortable fit.

Stay away from crew neck vests (ie round necklines), if you are in the habit of leaving your top button open. Instead opt for wider necklines. If you like wearing half-sleeved undershirts, then make sure the sleeves don't peek out from your half-sleeved shirts.

Never wear vests under thick T-shirts. If your tee is of a thinner material, then wear an undershirt that doesn't peek above your T-shirt's neckline.

If you still like to show what you are wearing underneath, then make sure your vest's edgings aren't loose, because a limp edging can prove to be your biggest faux pas yet.

Maybe the other faux pas jostling for number one position is wearing vests with holes in them. Your dad may wear them at home, but take it from us they are best left at home. Dumping them is ideal.

One clothing item you should wear a vest under is a transparent shirt. Please don't spring a hairy surprise on your unsuspecting colleagues!

However, stay miles away from perforated vests. 

If you didn't know, vests are available in colours such as white, black, grey, light blue, or even in stripes. But for God's sake don't wear anything other than a white vest under white shirts.

No writings or designs are allowed as well. Keep it plain.

If ever you want to sport a vest at an office picnic, then note: your vest shouldn't be discoloured, there should be no armpit stains, and it shouldn't be stretching across your chest like you have no room to breathe.

Guys, washing your vests regularly is very important. Hand-washing will increase their durability and keep them looking new. However if the washing machine is your only option, then make sure you dry them out manually at least.

And finally, buy at least a dozen vests so that in case you can't wash them for a week, you have
a good, clean supply at your disposal !

payal.kamat@mid-day.com