Ever heard of a gilet and wondered what it is? Let’s clear that up. A gilet (pronounced “jee-lay,” if you’re feeling fancy) is a sleeveless jacket that was originally designed as a practical, lightweight bodywarmer. Back in the 70s and 80s, these nifty garments were all about function. Outdoorsmen and adventurers loved them for the extra layer of warmth they offered without the bulk of a full coat. These days, the gilet has had a serious style upgrade. No longer just a piece of outdoor gear, it’s now a key player in modern wardrobes, seamlessly blending practicality and design. Think of it as your stylish solution to those in-between days when it’s too chilly to skip the outerwear, but a full-on coat feels like overkill. Gilets are the unsung heroes of transitional dressing, nailing that fine line between comfort and cool.