What is the point of string vests? Who invented them? Are they fashionable? | Notes and Queries

What is the point of string vests? Who invented them? Are they fashionable?

• String vests keep you warm because they trap a layer of air between your skin and your shirt. A bit like double glazing.

  Alan Moore, Hong Kong

• My father always wore string vests, and said they kept him warm in winter and cool in summer. They used to be known as Norwegian string vests so maybe a Norwegian invented them.

  Rowena Alsey, London

• I have always been led to understand (not that I've ever worn one) that string vests keep their wearer warm by trapping air in the pockets formed by the holes. Human body heat warms this air, which cannot escape through the outer layers of clothing, thereby keeping the lucky owner cosy. As to whether they're fashionable, I believe Rab C Nesbitt has a lot to answer for...

  Jodi Cook, Manchester

• Putting string vests in your double-glazing will not make it work better. String vests are now fashionalble again but only worn on top of other clothing which negates their warming/cooling effects.

  Duncan Myers, Durham UK

• I love string vests. The holes are like little pockets of warm love that keep you warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.

  Freya Hewett, London, UK