Tom & Boy Toile De Jouy Vest

A little French countryside, a little vintage tailoring and a lovely mix of prints. Tom & Boy's Toile de Jouy Vest is part of the Toy Department AW26 collection, bringing an 18th-century French textile pattern into a wardrobe inspired by childhood, collecting and the world of Charles and Ray Eames.

The charcoal grey fabric is covered in tiny illustrated houses, trees, bridges and winding paths, like an old French storybook. It's a traditional Toile de Jouy print, but the black and white gingham edging gives it a completely different feel. I love the combination of those two patterns, especially the little checks running around the neckline, armholes and hem.

The waistcoat has a relaxed, slightly boxy shape, a V-neck and four wooden-look buttons down the front. It's the sort of piece that makes layering much more interesting, whether that's over a printed sweatshirt, a striped roll-neck or a simple T-shirt.

In the AW26 campaign, it's worn with the matching Toile de Jouy Skirt, bright red socks and chunky trainers. The full set looks fantastic, but I'd be just as happy seeing this thrown over an oversized shirt with baggy jeans.

A lovely nod to old-fashioned waistcoats, with the playful approach to pattern that makes Tom & Boy such an interesting brand.