  We introduce a class of higher-order derivative models in (2,1) space-time
dimensions. The models are described by a vector field, and contain a
Proca-like mass term which prevents gauge invariance. We use the gauge
embedding procedure to generate another class of higher-order derivative
models, gauge-invariant and dual to the former class. We show that the results
are valid in arbitrary (d,1) space-time dimensions when one discards the
Chern-Simons and Chern-Simons-like terms. We also investigate duality at the
quantum level, and we show that it is preserved in the quantum scenario. Other
results include investigations concerning the gauge embedding approach when the
vector field couples with fermionic matter, and when one adds nonlinearity.
