J.Crew, $138

The lightweight vest is perhaps the most versatile of all the layering pieces in your fall and winter wardrobe. We're not talking about the puffy, over-stuffed down vests that guys were wearing a few years ago. These days, the vest you want is lean and mean with a sleek silhouette cut from technical and performance materials. Resistant to wind and misty precipitation, but won't cause you to overheat when the sun's shining. Wear one with some sweats on a run or on the weekend. Slip one under your top coat or denim jacket. Layer one under (or over) a suit jacket for some added warmth. From Saturdays NYC's reversible option to the wool and nubby cotton version by Filson and The Hill-Side, let these vests add some color, texture and added protection to your everyday kit.