Zella Long Vest

Finding the Perfect Long Vest for Your Active Lifestyle

The Zella Long Vest has become a wardrobe staple for many active women. This lightweight, versatile layer provides warmth during cool weather workouts without restricting your movement. As someone who is always on the go, I know the struggle of finding cute athleisure pieces that also perform well for my busy lifestyle. That’s why I was so excited when I discovered the Zella Long Vest – it has quickly become my go-to top for everything from yoga, to running errands, to casual wear.

If you’re in the market for a long vest that seamlessly transitions from fitness to function, then the Zella Long Vest needs to be at the top of your list! I’ve put together this comprehensive buying guide so you can learn all about this must-have piece. We’ll cover the key features, fit, price, sizing, materials, color options, care instructions, and more. I’ll also provide tips on how to style it for different seasons and activities. Read on for your complete guide to the cult-favorite Zella Long Vest!

Key Features of the Zella Long Vest

The Zella Long Vest is chock full of details designed for active women on the move. Here are some of the stand-out features:

• Moisture-wicking fabric: The vest is made from Zella’s lightweight moisture-wicking fabric to keep you cool and dry during workouts. The material is also stretchy, allowing for a full range of motion.
• Ventilated mesh back: The mesh paneling provides increased breathability and airflow when you’re breaking a sweat.
• Thumbholes: The thumbhole cuffs help keep the long sleeves in place during activities. A genius detail!
• Zippered pockets: It has two roomy zippered side pockets to securely store small essentials like your phone, keys or cards.
• High neck: The mock neck provides additional coverage and warmth during chilly weather.
• Reflective details: Small reflective strips on the back collar and thumbholes increase visibility in low-light conditions, keeping you safe.
• Flattering silhouette: The slim, streamlined fit flatters your shape rather than overpowering your frame.

As you can see, every element of the Zella Long Vest is designed with an active lifestyle in mind. It takes performance apparel up a notch with its stylish look and versatility too.

Finding Your Perfect Fit

One of the most important factors in choosing a long vest is getting the right fit. Here’s a breakdown of how the Zella Long Vest is designed to fit:

• Slim and streamlined silhouette: This vest is tailored for a flattering contoured shape rather than looking bulky.
• True-to-size: Most customers recommend ordering your normal size. It’s fitted but not clingy.
• Fitted through the shoulders: The vest is tapered through the shoulders and arms for a shapely slim fit.
• Wider through hips: With its slight A-line shape, it allows room through the hips for freedom of movement.
• Hits at hip length: The vest length provides coverage for your mid and lower back during bending and stretching.

The long line flatters a range of body types, from petite to tall. Reviewers love how it hits at just the right spot. Of course, you can always size up for a looser relaxed fit or size down for a more tailored look.

Shopping for the Zella Long Vest

Now that you know the essential features and fit, let’s talk about where to buy it. The Zella Long Vest typically retail around $80 directly from Nordstrom. Here are some tips for finding the best deals:

• Check Nordstrom first: As the exclusive retailer, Nordstrom will have the widest range of colors and sizes in stock. Sign up for alerts so you know when new colors drop!
• Look for sales: The vest will often be marked down during Nordstrom’s Half Yearly Sale or Anniversary Sale. Time your purchase right and you could snag it for as low as $40!
• Search secondhand sites: Search resale sites like Poshmark, Mercari or eBay for new or gently used Zella vests at steep discounts. Retail price can be slashed in half or more.
• Find a price match: Nordstrom offers price matching so you can get credit if you find it cheaper at another retailer. Free returns make it easy if needed too.

With some smart shopping tactics, you can grab this top-rated vest for much less than full price!

Sizing Options to Find Your Ideal Fit

The Zella Long Vest comes in a full range of standard women’s sizes from XXS to XL. Here are the key measurements for each size:

• XXS: Bust 31″ – 33″, Waist 23″ – 25″, Hips 34″ – 36″
• XS: Bust 33″ – 35″, Waist 25″ – 27″, Hips 36″ – 38″
• S: Bust 35″ – 37″, Waist 27″ – 29″, Hips 38″ – 40″
• M: Bust 37″ – 39″, Waist 29″ – 31″, Hips 40″ – 42″
• L: Bust 39″ – 41″, Waist 31″ – 33″, Hips 42″ – 44″
• XL: Bust 41″ – 43″, Waist 33″ – 35″, Hips 44″ – 46″

I suggest taking your own measurements and matching up with the size chart on Nordstrom’s website. Sizing may vary slightly by color. The stretchy performance fabric also allows for some wiggle room in sizing. Don’t hesitate to exchange it if your normal size doesn’t feel like that perfect Goldilocks fit.

Layering Made Easy with the Long Vest

One of my favorite aspects of the Zella Long Vest is how seamlessly it layers under coats and over tank tops. The hip length is ideal for keeping your core warm without adding bulk.

In fall and spring, I love layering it over a tank or T-shirt. It provides the perfect amount of cozy warmth during crisp mornings and cool evenings. For winter, it works great under unzipped jackets, heavy cardigans and oversized coats.

The sleeve length also makes it easy to wear under coats and jackets. The slim fitted sleeve doesn’t bunch under outerwear like other bulky long vests and cardigans can.

Overall, the lightweight design and fitted silhouette makes the Zella Vest a dream for layering. You’ll get so much more use out of it by dressing it up or down throughout the seasons.

High-Performance Fabric Constructed to Last

Let’s get into the materials and construction that allow this vest to take you from the gym to the streets. Here are the technical fabric details:

• Main body: 87% polyester, 13% spandex jersey with moisture-wicking performance
• Mesh back panel: 84% polyester, 16% spandex with breathable ventilation
• Thumbholes: 80% nylon, 20% spandex blend adds stretch

The polyester blend makes the vest lightweight, quick-drying and durable. The spandex woven throughout provides four-way stretch so you can move freely. The fabric even has UPF 50 protection from harmful sun rays.

Reviewers are impressed with how well it holds up to repeated washing and wear without fading, pilling or losing its shape. Zella uses quality performance fabrics designed to withstand an active lifestyle.

The vest truly fuses fashion and function. You’re getting that coveted athleisure look in a long vest made with real performance technology.

Perfect Fall Styles With the Zella Vest

As the weather cools down, the Zella Vest becomes the ultimate transitional piece for fall. Here are some of my favorite ways to wear it:

• Over a tank and leggings for the gym or yoga studio
• Layered over a turtleneck with distressed jeans and booties for a casual day
• Under an oversized moto jacket with black skinnies and booties for a night out
• With a thermal long sleeve tee, leggings and sneakers for fall hiking
• Over a button-down shirt with printed pants or a midi skirt for work
• With a t-shirt, leggings and rain jacket for fall dog walking

I love using it as lightweight outerwear in fall when it’s not cold enough yet for heavy layers. It’s also so easy to dress up or down for everything from tailgates to apple picking. The options are truly endless with this versatile vest!

Fun Color Palette to Match Your Style

The Zella Long Vest comes in a wide variety of beautiful colors that span the seasons. Here are some of the most popular shades:

Neutrals: Black, light heather grey, dark heather grey, dunescape taupe

Jewel Tones: Sapphire blue, chambray blue, violet plum

Prints: Black leopard, light grey geo print

Pastels: Blush pink, frost grey, ice grey, moonlight

Neons: Coral blaze, scream green, pink glow

No matter your color preference, there’s a Zella Vest hue for you. The rich jewel tones and neon brights add fun pops of color to fall and winter looks. Soft pastels and heather neutrals seamlessly transition through the seasons. And the prints add flair when you want to spice it up.

I’m eyeing that sapphire blue shade for my next vest. Or maybe the leopard print! The options make it easy to collect more than one.

Cost and Value Breakdown

As a high-quality performance and athleisure piece, the Zella Long Vest delivers serious value. Let’s break down what you’re getting for the $80 retail price:

• Performance fabrics = $20 The technical moisture-wicking polyester blend would cost $20+ alone.
• Flattering slim fit design = $15 The tailored silhouette and flared shape is worth $15.
• Trendy athleisure style = $20 You’d spend $20+ for a similar vest at athleisure brands.
• Excellent construction = $10 The seams, stitching and hardware justify $10.
• Trusted brand name = $10 The Zella name has value for its reputation.
• Versatility to wear year-round = $5 Transitional pieces add value by wearing them often.

When you look at the cost breakdown, the vest is appropriately priced. Given the quality, performance value, brand reputation and style, the $80 MSRP makes sense. And it’s an amazing deal if snagged on sale!

Caring for Your Long Vest

The Zella Long Vest is machine washable for easy care. Here are some tips:

• Machine wash cold using a gentle cycle. Warm water could cause fading.
• No bleach as it may damage the technical performance fabrics.
• Line dry to preserve the shape and allow moisture-wicking. High heat can ruin the stretch.
• Cool iron on low if needed to remove wrinkles. Do not iron the zippers or reflective details.
• Do not dry clean as the chemicals used can deteriorate the water-resistant coating.
• Inspect zippers to ensure they are closed before washing to prevent snagging.

Following these care instructions will help your vest look like new wash after wash. Proper laundering also retains the moisture-wicking and stretch capabilities through extensive use. Treat your Zella vest with care for the best results.

Rave Reviews Prove It’s a Must-Have Vest

The Zella Long Vest is highly rated across the web. Here’s a sample of the glowing praise:

• “This vest has become a fall and winter essential for me. It’s so flattering and versatile.”
• “I love the fitted style that lies smoothly under coats. The length is perfect too.”
• “It’s like my second skin – so comfortable for everything from yoga to running errands.”
• “The fabric is amazing! It stretches and moves with me but is still lightweight.”
• “This vest transitions beautifully through spring, summer and fall. Great value for the price.”
• “I’m tempted to buy one in every color! Just an effortlessly stylish piece.”
• “The thumbholes are brilliant for keeping the sleeves in place during workouts.”

Clearly the overwhelming consensus is that the Zella Long Vest lives up to the hype. The combination of performance, fit, style and value simply can’t be beat.

How the Zella Vest Compares to Similar Styles

The Zella Long Vest has certainly caused a stir in the activewear world. But how does it stack up against similar long vest styles from other popular brands? Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Lululemon Run For It Vest: Similar slim fit but shorter length, pricier at $128
• Athleta Ascent Vest: Also polyester/spandex but looser fit, thumbholes extra $10
• Outdoor Voices 3/4 Exercise Vest: Comparable style but not moisture-wicking, no thumbholes
• Girlfriend Collective Earth Vest: More relaxed fit, shorter length, bigger armholes
• Alo Yoga Ruched Long Vest: Fitted but ruched sides add bulk, warmer fabric than Zella’s

The Zella Long Vest holds it own against the competitors. Its tailored fit, thumbholes, moisture-wicking fabric and length give it the winning edge for activewear performance and crossover versatility.

Weatherproof Enough for Light Rain

While not entirely waterproof, the Zella Long Vest provides water resistance if caught in light rain showers. The polyester fabric has a durable water repellent (DWR) finish. This causes water to bead up and roll off the surface rather than soak in.

It’s perfectly fine getting caught in a misty rain during your morning run. The water-resistant coating allows the vest to dry quickly afterwards. You’ll also stay comfortable with its moisture-wicking properties that prevent wet cling.

Of course, in heavy downpours you’ll want a fully waterproof rain jacket to stay dry. But the Zella Vest has you covered for light precipitation. One less thing to worry about on blustery days!

Hassle-Free Returns Make Shopping a Breeze

One of my favorite things about Nordstrom is their easy returns. The Zella Long Vest has a standard 60 day return window with receipt. Returns are completely free by mail or at your local Nordstrom.

Their customer service makes shopping low-risk. You can order multiple sizes to find your ideal fit and simply return the rest at no cost. How amazing is that?

Nordstrom also has free alterations in store for simple hemming or taking in at the sides. Consult with your local store’s alterations department if needed.

Between the flexible return policy and alteration services, you can find your picture-perfect fit. No wonder Nordstrom is the go-to for premium athleisure apparel!

Tips for Choosing the Right Size Long Vest

Finding your ideal size for the slim fitting Zella Long Vest is important. Here are my top tips for choosing the right size:

• Reference the size chart dimensions – measure your bust, waist and hip circumferences.
• Take your usual top or dress size in fitted styles as a starting point.
• Size up if you prefer a looser look or need room to layer underneath.
• Size down if you want a tighter performance fit that won’t ride up.
• Read reviews about how the sizes tend to fit. Most suggest your normal size.
• Try it on in person at Nordstrom if possible to get the right feel.
• Order two sizes if needed and return the one that doesn’t fit right for free.

The streamlined vest looks best when it skims your shape rather than appearing overly baggy. Use the size chart along with your own measurements to choose the size that will contour your curves.

The Vest That Defies Winter Chills

Despite its lightweight feel, the Zella Long Vest provides cozy warmth even during cold winter temps. Here’s why it defies the chill:

• Mock neck design seals in heat and blocks wind.
• Long sleeve coverage retains body heat from shoulders to wrists.
• Closer hip length doesn’t expose your lower back.
• Moisture-wicking fabric prevents cold damp cling.
• Stretchy layers easily under heavy coats and puffer jackets.
• Thumbholes keep sleeves down and seal out icy drafts.

For frigid winter pursuits like ice skating, skiing or sledding, just layer it under a heavy parka or down coat. The long vest is also ideal under pea coats and wool overcoats for commuting in the cold.

Don’t be fooled by its lightweight feel – the Zella Vest will fend off winter chills with ease!

Catch It on Sale For Maximum Savings

The Zella Long Vest already offers serious value at its typical $80 retail price point. But you can save even more by buying it on sale!

• Check for markdowns on Nordstrom’s website in your size/color.
• Look out for seasonal sales like the Anniversary Sale or Holiday Sale.
• Sign up for Nordstrom’s insider rewards program for early access to specials.
• Check other retailers for potential price matching deals.
• Browse Poshmark or resale sites for steep discounts on new or used.
• Use coupons, promo codes or accumulated Nordstrom notes.

With some savvy sale shopping strategies, you could potentially buy the Zella Vest for as little as $40-$60 per piece. Now that’s a real workout wardrobe steal!

Active Pursuits the Vest Is Built For

Between the sweat-wicking performance fabric and unrestricted range of motion, the Zella Long Vest is ideal for nearly any active lifestyle. Here are some of the top activities it’s perfectly suited for:

• Yoga – Stretch and move freely in all poses.
• Running – Lightweight material won’t slow you down.
• Hiking – Thumbholes keep sleeves secure when reaching and moving.
• Dance – Close fit won’t ride up while allowing fluid movement.
• Gym training – Perfect for cardio, weights, HIIT and more.
• Tennis – Wicks sweat with high arm mobility for swings.
• Golf – Unencumbered shoulder movement for smooth swings.
• Cycling – Hip length provides back coverage while riding.

The vest really does it all! Whether your cardio is running, spinning, tennis or hiking trails, this piece performs.

Follow the Care Instructions For Best Results

To get the longest life out of your Zella Long Vest, follow the recommended care instructions:

• Machine wash cold using a gentle cycle to prevent damage from high agitation.
• Line dry to maintain the vest’s shape and wicking capabilities. Avoid high heat.
• Cool iron on medium if needed to smooth wrinkles, taking care not to directly iron zippers, thumbholes or reflective details.
• Do not bleach since this can ruin the technical performance fabric.
• Do not dry clean as the chemicals used in the process can break down water-resistant coatings.
• Inspect zippers before washing to ensure they are fully zipped to prevent snagging or teeth damage.

By washing on cold and line drying your vest, you’ll retain the quality, shape and performance capabilities for many washes to come. Treat it with care for the longest lasting wear.

Elevate Your Activewear With This Must-Have Vest

After learning all about the Zella Long Vest, it’s clear why it earns such outstanding reviews. The flattering tailored fit, functional features like thumbholes and zippered pockets, soft moisture-wicking fabric, and versatile styling make this an absolute must-have piece.

It quickly takes any activewear look up a notch while also seamlessly integrating into your casual wardrobe. It even layers beautifully under winter coats when the temperatures drop. Simply put, this vest perfectly blends performance, comfort and style.

So stop searching for the perfect long vest – the Zella has it all. Add this wardrobe staple to your collection this season for an effortlessly chic athleisure look. Trust me, it will become your cool weather go-to!