A gilet (/dZI'leI/) is a sleeveless jacket that looks like a waistcoat or blouse. The gilet was popular in the 19th century and early 20th century in Europe, especially in England. It can be made of wool, cotton, or leather, with silk sometimes used instead. The gilet is usually cut without a collar or cuffs, but may have a stand-up collar or a roll-down sleeve. It may also have buttoned flaps at the front or back, similar to those on a coat. Some gilets have belt loops or buttons for fastening them around the user's waist. The gilet is often worn over other clothing. In British culture, it is most commonly seen as an alternative to a suit jacket for weekday wear. It is also common as an outer garment during the spring and autumn months. In North America, the gilet is usually referred to as a poncho and is typically worn by surfers as an optional piece of apparel.