A sweater vest (known as a tank top, sleeveless jumper, sleeveless sweater, sleeveless pullover or slipover in the UK) is an item of knitted fabric that is similar to a sweater, but without , usually with a low-cut neckline. They were popular in the 20th century, particularly in the 1970s in the UK, and are again growing in popularity in the 21st century.
Styles
One of the most common patterns on a sweater vest is argyle. Many newer designs feature a return to popular patterns from past eras. Other variations include designs of a more modern nature, including stripes. Some of the most common of
neckline shapes are the V-neck
and the
crew neck, which is similar to a common
T-shirt neckline.
Other styles include button front, These are sometimes called a "sleeveless cardigan."
As athletic wear
A sweater vest, white flannel pants, and collared shirt are standard wear for professional
in the UK, Australia, India and South Africa. The
cable knit vests often have a contrasting red, blue, or green stripe around the neckline. Before shorts and
were introduced in the 1930s,
tennis players wore a similar outfit.
In the early 20th century, often wore an argyle pattern tank top with their brogue shoe, and plus fours. This was a more comfortable and practical alternative to the Norfolk jacket made out of tweed cloth previously worn for outdoor pursuits, as the sleeveless nature of the tank top allowed free movement of the arms in swinging a golf club.
Fashion
Sweater vests are popular among sports fans, particularly those who play
golf.
Those with sports team logos, especially
NFL and
College sports, are also popular and are frequently worn by American football coaches, most notably
Jim Tressel, who has been given the nickname "The Sweater Vest" by fans
despite the garment's origins at rival Michigan Wolverines.
