I have a really nice piece of fine cotton shirting in a traditional plaid I bought in England several years ago. I think it would make a lovely pair of Christmas vests for the boys. In my mind, these would have a traditional menswear look, so I picture a lining type fabric for the back and the lining, right? Isn't that how vests are made for men? So do I want like silk or Bemberg rayon? or something else?
Also, maybe the back ties should be fastened with something other than buttons? Wouldn't little D rings be more traditional? I don't spend a lot of time with mens suiting, clearly. :)