I know that I am coming in late.

There are patterns for a man's vests with a collar at most sewing centers. One example is:

http://www.simplicity.com/p-2185-boy...-and-ties.aspx

I believe that most of these patterns go to a size of 52 inches. I have the problem of being larger than 52 and am working at adjusting my pattern upward.

Do you have pictures of you new vest?