DISCOVERY Magazine discovers DORNSCHILD: The insider’s tip for gentlemen with style and character.
Waistcoats are a timeless, versatile garment. On formal occasions or as a stylish addition to everyday life, they add the finishing touch to every outfit and enhance any men’s wardrobe.
“Waistcoats have been around for centuries. Nobly worn by kings, elegantly staged by aristocrats or the rougher, cooler models for cowboys. Since the beginning of the 20th century, however, they have been mainly known as part of a suit and therefore have faded into the background,” relates Jörn Boysen, head designer and co-founder of DORNSCHILD, the Munich-based design manufacturer for men’s high-quality premium waistcoats.
You won’t find models made of thin suit fabric with a poor cut and a back made of lining, plastic buttons, sagging straps or buckles on the back on a DORNSCHILD waistcoat. In their place: subtly placed seams and a perfect, close-fitting and yet comfortable cut that emphasises a man’s masculinity and discreetly covers potential bodily flaws with its sophisticated fit. Just like well-cut jackets but without sleeves.
Not to be forgotten: the exceptional quality of the fabrics, which come from the best weaving mills in Italy. When designing their DORNSCHILD waistcoats, Boysen and his business partner Michael Obermayer don’t follow fleeting trends at all costs but with self-confidence and attention to detail contrive waistcoats for gentlemen with style, character and personality. “This happens every season,” adds Boyson. “Actually we surprise ourselves and our styles every season. This constant change, by the way, is also a distinguishing feature of our waistcoats.”
Is there anything in particular to bear in mind when wearing a waistcoat? Are there any no-goes? “Hardly. The outfit has to suit the personality of the wearer and the occasion. Men’s fashion is currently presenting an exciting, relaxed balancing act between sporty, casual and smart, which leaves a lot of freedom”, explains Boysen. “This can make it difficult to find the right shade or combination. The trick is to skilfully combine different garments, colours and pattern to create a strong style. Depending on the occasion, a DORNSCHILD waistcoat can be combined with a shirt, chino and leather shoes or, if you prefer a more casual and sporty look, with a t-shirt, turtleneck, jeans and sneakers. Limited only by personality and occasion, there are hardly any limits.”
“Accessories, by the way, are the ultimate fashion twist. Even a smart tie, a fashionable pocket square, a casual scarf or a cool hat enhance an outfit. Hence in principle,there are no restrictions when wearing a waistcoat. However, one of the most important rules should always be followed: A waistcoat’s bottom button always remains open!”