In Turkey, today the word yelek indicates a vest or a coat. But in Syria the term refers to a coat with a cut-away bodice, following the Ottoman tradition.

The fabric of this yelek is hand woven linen, dyed a dark indigo shade. Wide strips of dense red embroidery with pale golden yellow and pastel borders decorate all seams, the cuffs, and the hem. Patterns include the palm, the saw, the key, and a magnificent medallion over the cut pocket.