Everything You Need to Know Before You Shop

As soon as the weather begins to cool, my thoughts turn to layering – and one of my favorite layering pieces for fall and winter is a versatile vest. Vests are so easy to throw on over practically anything, adding warmth without bulk. And when it comes to quality, flattering vests that work for real women’s bodies, one of my go-to brands is Susan Graver.

Susan Graver vests have become a staple in my wardrobe. With so many options to choose from, I wanted to create this in-depth buying guide to help you find your perfect Susan Graver vest. I’ll share details on fit, style, colors, materials, reviews, and more – everything you need to consider before you shop!

What Are Susan Graver Vests?

Susan Graver is an exclusive collection designed for QVC by fashion designer Susan Graver. With over 25 years of experience dressing women of all ages and body types, Susan Graver designs comfortable, flattering clothing meant to boost confidence.

The Susan Graver vest collection offers both fashion vests and quilted vests made from high-quality materials like ponte knit fabric and nylon. Some have front zip closures while others have open waterfall fronts. Lengths range from cropped to tunic.

Where To Buy Susan Graver Vests

Susan Graver vests are sold exclusively on QVC.com and through QVC’s TV and streaming programs. Browsing the QVC website allows you to see all the various vest styles, colors, and sizes available from the current Susan Graver collection.

QVC also regularly airs shows featuring Susan Graver herself modeling her latest pieces and sharing styling tips. So tuning in is a great way to get a feel for the brand and see the vests on different body types.

The Fit and Feel of Susan Graver Vests

In my experience, Susan Graver vests live up to their reputation for comfort and fit. The ponte knit fabric has comfortable stretch that moves with you. The nylon outer shell of the quilted styles is lightweight yet substantial.

In terms of sizing, most reviewers say the vests fit true to size. I would describe the overall fit as generous and flattering. The vests are designed to smoothly skim over your natural curves, not cling tightly. There’s plenty of room through the bust and hips with a gentle tapered shape at the waist.

For reference I’m 5’5″ and around a size 12. The medium vests fit me well with some drape through the body. I’d recommend sizing down if you prefer a more tailored look. If you carry more weight in your bust or hips, sizing up may be better to avoid pulling across the chest or midsection.

Susan Graver Vest Size Options

One of the great things about Susan Graver vests (and all her apparel) is the inclusive size range. Sizes are available from XS to 5X in most styles. Here’s a quick guide to the sizing:

• XS: Bust 33″-35″, Waist 25″-27″, Hip 36″-38″
• S: Bust 36″-38″, Waist 28″-30″, Hip 39″-41″
• M: Bust 39″-41″, Waist 31″-33″, Hip 42″-44″
• L: Bust 44″-46″, Waist 36″-38″, Hip 47″-49″
• XL: Bust 49″-51″, Waist 41″-43″, Hip 52″-54″
• 1X: Bust 52″-55″, Waist 46″-49″, Hip 57″-60″
• 2X: Bust 58″-61″, Waist 52″-55″, Hip 62″-65″
• 3X: Bust 64″-67″, Waist 58″-61″, Hip 67″-70″
• 4X: Bust 70″-73″, Waist 64″-67″, Hip 72″-75″
• 5X: Bust 76″-79″, Waist 70″-73″, Hip 77″-80″

So no matter your measurements, focusing on the bust/waist/hip size chart should help you determine your ideal Susan Graver vest size.

Layering and Styling Susan Graver Vests

One of the key reasons I love vests is their versatility for layering over other pieces. Susan Graver vests are designed with layering in mind.

The ponte knit fabric varieties are perfect for wearing over long sleeve tops or dresses. The quilted nylon vests add warmer insulation over sweaters, blouses or tees. Cropped vests let you layer without adding bulk around your midsection.

For styling, Susan Graver vests pair effortlessly with almost anything in your closet. I like to wear mine over a simple shell or fitted tee and jeans or leggings for weekend casual looks. They’re also great over your work blouses and trousers or dresses for the office.

You can accent the vest with scarves, long necklaces, or cowl-neck tops peeking out from underneath. Leggings, skinny jeans, or tall boots balance out the looser vest silhouette on bottom.

Available Colors and Prints

One of the hardest parts is narrowing down your favorite color and print options! Susan Graver vests are available in a wide range of solids, patterns and textures.

Popular year-round neutrals include black, navy, gray, and ivory. For pops of color, rich hues like merlot, plum, teal, and olive are sophisticated options. Prints range from subtle animal prints to vibrant florals. Quilted vests come in solids from basic black to eye-catching ruby red.

There are so many great prints and color combinations, you’re sure to find at least a few (or many) that speak to your personal style.

Care and Maintenance – Machine Washable Ease

Caring for your Susan Graver vests is blissfully easy. Both the ponte knit and quilted nylon styles are fully machine washable. I just throw mine in with similar colors on gentle cycle, then either hang to dry or tumble dry on low.

The fabrics hold up well over many washes and wearings. Even after repeat laundering my vests still look and feel like new. Following the care instructions ensures your vest will stay looking fabulous for many seasons.

How Susan Graver Vests Compare to Other Brands

There are certainly no shortage of vest options from retailers and brands nowadays. But Susan Graver vests stand out to me for their thoughtful details and custom-fit tailoring.

Many other brands size their vests in standard S-M-L sizing without accounting for the differences in women’s proportions. Susan Graver’s size chart takes bust, waist and hip measurements into consideration, so you get that made-for-your-curves custom fit.

While some brands charge premium designer-level pricing, Susan Graver vests are a great value for their quality. The fabric holds its shape well and resists pilling or becoming shabby over time. And they have clever touches like drop tail hems that provide flattering coverage.

A Wide Range of Prices to Suit Any Budget

Speaking of value, Susan Graver vests retail at varied price points to suit any budget. Sale and clearance pieces can be found for $40-$60. Regular pricing ranges from $70-$120 for the ponte knit vests and $80-$140 for the quilted styles.

Compared to department store brands, these prices are very reasonable for vests made from such quality material and construction. When you catch a brand new arrival on an introductory special, the deals are even better!

Invest for the Long Term

Across the glowing reviews, one consistent sentiment stands out – Susan Graver vests are made to last. Customers who have been buying them for years remark how the vests hold up beautifully season after season. Many mention machine washing frequently without any deterioration in fit, softness or appearance.

The nylon shell on the quilted options seems indestructible and doesn’t rip or tear. And the ponte knit is thick enough not to pill, sag or stretch out permanently. This enduring quality makes a Susan Graver vest a wardrobe investment that will earn its cost per wear over and over again.

Thoughtful Materials and Fabrics

It’s clear that Susan Graver carefully selects fabrics with the comfort of real women in mind. Her ponte knit vests feature substantial 7.5 oz jersey that is smooth, fluid and ultra soft against the skin. The quilted vests have a lightweight nylon shell that allows for easy movement.

Compared to stiff or scratchy materials, these soft, stretchy fabrics move with you and feel wonderful all day long. The material recovery is excellent – the vests bounce right back to their original shape instead of sagging.

For cooler weather, select plush faux fur fabrics or buttery soft boucle knits offer indulgent texture and warmth. No matter which fabric you choose, it will be thoughtfully designed for an effortless, feel-good experience.

Glowing Reviews From Real Customers

Beyond my own enthusiastic opinion, Susan Graver vests earn widespread praise in hundreds of reviews from real customers. Fans say the vests make them feel confident and pulled-together. They love the comfort, versatility, and longevity.

Many reviews mention buying the vest in multiple colors because it becomes an instant wardrobe essential. Customers continually remark on details like the shaping side seams, flexible stretch, and well-placed hem lengths that keep the vests flattering.

Across ages, body types and personal styles, the consistent feedback is that Susan Graver vests fit and feel fantastic. The overwhelming consensus is that these vests are worth every penny for their everyday usefulness, so you can’t go wrong choosing one.

Returns Are Easy If It’s Not the Right Fit

Shopping for apparel online without trying things on can be daunting. But QVC makes returns quick and hassle-free if your Susan Graver vest doesn’t work out as expected.

QVC offers free return shipping and will refund the item cost as well as original shipping fees. Returns are accepted within 30 days of delivery for unworn merchandise with tags still attached.

Trying on items at home allows you to get a feel for the real fit and fabric. Don’t hesitate to order a few sizes or styles, then keep what flatters you best and return the rest.

Follow the Care Instructions

To properly care for your Susan Graver vest:

• Machine wash cold, delicate cycle
• Tumble dry low or hang to dry
• Use mild detergent without bleach
• Do not dry clean
• Avoid direct high heat like hot washer/dryer temperatures or ironing

Following these simple care guidelines preserves the fibers and allows the stretch fabrics to retain their shape. Taking proper care extends the life of your vest so you can enjoy it even longer!

Can You Get Susan Graver Vests Altered?

One of the most asked questions is whether Susan Graver vests can be tailored if needed. The answer is yes!

Because the fabrics have plenty of give, the vests are ideal for simple alterations like taking in the side seams for a slimmer fit. The ponte knit styles can also be shortened by a few inches if you prefer a cropped length.

Visit your local tailor or seamstress and they can easily adjust your Susan Graver vest for an even better custom fit. This is a great option if you fall between regular size ranges or prefer precise adjustments.

Keep an Eye Out for Discounts

QVC frequently offers special pricing on Susan Graver collections. Sign up for email alerts and you’ll be the first to know when vests go on sale.

During seasonal sales like Memorial Day or Labor Day, prices are often slashed site-wide. QVC’s monthly “Doorbuster” deals spotlight brand new arrivals at impressively low introductory pricing.

Even if you miss a special sale, watching the vest you like for a price drop can help you score the best deal. Discounted prices paired with free shipping make it the perfect time to scoop up more than one!

So Many Ways to Style Your Vest

The styling possibilities with a Susan Graver vest truly feel endless. They seamlessly transition from season to season. Here are some of my favorite ways to wear them:

• Over button-down shirts or blouses for work
• With skinny jeans, boots, and a turtleneck on casual days
• Over maxi dresses or skirts for an elegant layered look
• With printed pants and flats for a fun weekend outfit
• With leggings and a long sleeve tee for running errands
• Over a cocktail dress to events for extra coverage
• With jeans, heels and a colorful shell for date nights
• With printed leggings and a tunic top for travel days

No matter the season or occasion, your Susan Graver vest will be your outfit’s MVP!

Practical Features Like Pockets

Beyond being fashionable, many Susan Graver vests include handy details like pockets. The patch pockets and side zip pockets provide a place to stash essentials securely.

Pockets in vests keep your valuables right up front where you can see them, instead of buried in a bag or backpack. Quick access pockets are especially useful while traveling and moving through airports.

Details like these make Susan Graver vests as practical as they are pretty for today’s active woman on the go.

True to Size Means Worry-Free Shopping

The overwhelming feedback from reviewers is that Susan Graver vests fit true to size. As long as you select your regular apparel size based on your bust/waist/hip measurements, the vest should fit like a dream.

Some women do prefer sizing down for a more contoured silhouette or sizing up for a roomier drape. But your typical size should give you that “just right” Goldilocks fit through the shoulders, torso and hips.

Knowing the consistent sizing takes the guesswork out of online shopping. Order the size that fits you best in other Susan Graver pieces, and you’re nearly guaranteed a perfect fit.

Your New Favorite Layering Essential Awaits!

After reading this buying guide, you should have all the knowledge you need to find your fabulous new vest. Susan Graver’s carefully crafted vests are designed to make you look and feel amazing.

With so many versatile options, you can select vests tailored to your unique style. Just picture the compliments you’ll get when you rock your new layer like the confidence queen you are!

Now get ready to cozy up in comfort and stay looking chic in a Susan Graver vest made just for you. Your next favorite wardrobe staple is only a few clicks away. Happy vest shopping!