A gilet is a simple, straight-sided, sleeveless jacket primarily used for warmth during colder days. Gilets can be worn from waist to waist and are either woollen or fleece, quilted, or padded.
From where did the word “gilet” come?
Gilet is a Spanish jileco or chaleco word. However, it comes from the Turkish yelek word. Other records indicate a French noun, le Gilet, which means cardigan.
How do you pronounce “gilet”?
…and so to Gilet pronouncing. Jee-lay? Jee-let? Gill-lay? Gill-lay?
Are you a typical wearer of a gilet
The Gilet had once been a somewhat unfashionable choice for gardeners, outdoors trekkers, and middle-aged men in rural areas. However, it has become a sartorial solution that is loved by all men regardless of their age, occupation, or interests.
Why are gilets so beloved?
The unique capabilities of a gilet make it a popular choice. It is extremely versatile and can be used to create a wearable layer. It doesn’t have sleeves, so the arms can do what they want.
Research suggests that a gilet with a tight fit can promote blood circulation by heating the body’s core and warming vital organs. The heart and the lungs.
This is the ideal piece to carry for those between-the-season what’s-to-wear weather problems. It can also be folded up and packed into a backpack or briefcase, making it an excellent travel companion.
What’s the difference between a gilet and a body warmer?
Although the Gilet is often used interchangeably with the bodywarmer, technically, they are two different garments. While they look similar in style and shape, a bodywarmer is an outer garment that is more insulated and padded. The traditional Gilet is lighter and can be worn underneath a jacket or coat to provide warmth.
The waistcoat is a similar fashion term. It describes a sleeveless upper-body garment that covers the torso and fastens at the front. A waistcoat is often seen as the third component of a suit or other decorative apparel. It is rarely associated with warmth or functionality.
Different types of gilets
There are many styles to choose from in today’s market, and there is a gilet for every taste.
- Gilets with quilted or padded padding
- Fleece gilets
- Gilets for technical, utility or sports purposes
- Gilets made of game wax
- Leather gilets
- Costume gilets
- Fashion gilets
Gilets with quilted or padded padding
A quilted body warmer (or quilted Gilet) is an outer garment with insulation pockets. It can be made from duck down, synthetic fibres, or a combination. These pockets are held together by visible outer stitching. The padding traps air, which keeps body heat inside the jacket.
Padded jackets were a traditional way to create a Michelin Man-like silhouette. However, today’s insulated jackets offer a range of insulation levels, from the thickest required for Arctic expeditions to the moderate warmth of a daily layering system.
Fleece gilets
Fleece fabric, made from polyester, is a super soft and breathable synthetic product that is named after the fleece of a sheep. The material retains a little more warmth due to the soft pile surface. The fleece gilet is light and thin and can be worn as an outer layer or mid-layer underneath a jacket. Some fleece gilets can be zipped into walking/hiking jackets to be used as a mid-layer.
Gilets for technical, utility and sports purposes
Technical gilets are garments made specifically for one purpose, such as shooting, hunting, fishing, or skiing. These fabrics are typically extremely durable, windproof, and waterproof. The garment also has extra features not available on other gilets, such as deep open pockets for easy access to bait, cartridges, or a hip flask.
Gilet for game wax
These windproof gilets take inspiration from Barbour’s country jacket. They are made in 100% wax cotton and lined with a traditional country check. This is a popular choice for anyone who enjoys country pursuits or field sports.
