Style

The faux fur vest is a great trend to incorporate into your wardrobe as it adds a chic and luxurious touch to any outfit. Plus it's a simple and easy way to add a layer of warmth, without too much bulk or a heavy jacket. It's also a very versatile piece; it can be dressed up or down, great for multiple occasions. Fashion journalist Mana Mansour offers some tips on getting the right vest for you and how to make the most of this look.

When purchasing your vest, keep in mind that there are many different versions out there. The very shaggy ones, although edgy and cool, aren't very versatile — they scream a very specific look, so you won't get as many outfits out of the vest. Mana recommends buying one with smoother, shorter fur for a more refined look, and one that is longer rather than shorter. The shorter versions that hit at your waist don't look very good if you have an hourglass figure or carry your weight in your mid-section, however the longer ones hit at your upper thigh, elongating your figure.

This collarless faux fur vest from Forever 21, is a great affordable option (priced at $51).

Look 1: Classic Career Woman

This is a perfect outfit for a formal work environment, and a great way to incorporate the fur vest between winter and spring when the weather is still nippy but you want to bring out some of your spring coats. The fur vest makes a statement so the rest of your outfit should all balanced. For example, place it over a classic pencil skirt combined with a blouse — classic work staples refreshed using texture and a pop of colour. Carry over these classic details into the accessories. This leopard handbag is the perfect bag for work because it's structured (meaning it will hold its shape, perfect for everyday), and has multiple pockets to hold laptops/tablets. The statement necklace from Ann Taylor adds that sparkle, while using the colours from the black and cream palette of the rest of the outfit.

Get the look

Max Mara cashmere Pink Coat: Holt Renfew
Grey pencil skirt: Aritzia
Beige blouse: Forever 21 
Gold and black belt: H&M 
Statement necklace: Ann Taylor 
Tory Burch leopard handbag: Holt Renfrew
Black and gold pumps: Winners

Look 2: Bohemian Beauty

This is a perfect "girl about town" look. She has an effortless cool vibe to her, inspired by the boho glam looks from the Spring 2015 runways. When trying out this look, place the faux fur vest over a long-flowing untucked blouse (nothing too short or too tight; this look is all about playing with proportions). The untucked shirt under a vest has to be at least as long as the vest or else it doesn't look right. When playing with larger proportions on the top, the bottom needs to be as tight as possible, or you'll just look like a frumpy mess. Your best bet for bottoms with this look are skinny pants or leather leggings. Also, this is the time to add some really stand-out accessories that sparkle. And don't forget: layer, layer, layer! With the boho look you can really get away with it. The more the better!

Get the look

Dries van Noten kaleidoscope blouse: Holt Renfew
Pleather pants: H&M
Chloe blue saddle purse: Holt Renfew
Crystal drop necklace: Hillberg & Berk 
Multi-strand charm necklace: H&M 
Moto leather boots: Winners

Look 3: Modern Military

This look is perfect for the powerful career woman who works in a more casual business environment, or for the woman who wants a fashion-forward look to wear at a weekend event, like a brunch gathering or wedding shower. This is also a perfect look moving into spring, incorporating one of the biggest trends for spring 2015- military-inspired elements. For this look, Mana says to belt the faux fur vest to give yourself a defined waist, which automatically polishes the whole look. This type of vest is best belted with a thin belt, not super thick. Also, Mana recommends mixing a more masculine architectural necklace with very feminine details like bows (like the necklace and belt here). The juxtaposition of the two really balances and modernizes the look.

Get the look

Military blouse: H&M 
Michael by Michael Kors striped skirt: Holt Renfrew
Kate Spade silver bow belt: Holt Renfrew
Silver pumps: Winners 
Silver necklace: Winners 
Stacked silver bracelets: Hillberg and Berk