The workwear trend has gained popularity in recent years, with a number of designers and high street labels incorporating elements of this style into their collections. The rise of this trend can be attributed to its edgy, utilitarian aesthetic, and many brands now have dedicated workwear ranges, offering items in different styles that will look great on both men and women.
The key pieces to include in your workwear wardrobe
The most basic and practical outfit a worker might wear is a pair of work pants and a shirt, ideally a cotton flannel one. These are designed to help keep you warm and dry while also offering a great fit for when working out.
Overshirts – A workwear staple, this piece is often crafted in a heavier fabric than a standard shirt and features chest pockets creating extra storage space for essentials. They are ideal for wearing under a jacket or over a T-shirt in the spring, over a long-sleeved top in the fall and over a hoodie in the winter.
Cargo Pants & Overalls – If you’re a fan of blue-collar clothing then cargo pants are a must-have item to add to your collection. Originally created to help army personnel, these trousers have now become part of everyone’s rotation due to their practicality. Featuring a number of pockets they are ideal for carrying essentials and can be paired with white sneakers for a cool casual look.
Doc Martens – These boots are often worn by construction workers, with built in steel caps over the toes to protect against heavy falling objects. They are usually a darker coloured boot and have a rubber sole with a flat top to help with traction on rough surfaces.
Chore Coats – As the name suggests, chore coats were originally created to help keep people safe when performing outdoor chores. They come in a wide variety of styles and sizes and can be easily layered over a T-shirt, a long-sleeved t-shirt or even worn as an alternative to a coat.
Levi’s – These denim jeans have a storied history, and are now a staple for many people who wear them regularly. They are known for being durable and long-lasting, making them a perfect option for people who want to get the best out of their clothes.
Stan Ray – Since 1972, Texas-born brand Stan Ray has been creating classic workwear silhouettes, all with a modern twist to them. They offer a wide range of workwear pieces to suit your individual taste, with the brand’s most iconic pieces including the Painter Pant and Fatigue Pant.
Keeping it real
The rise of workwear has influenced fashion in the most unexpected ways. Its rigid fabrics and utilitarian minimalism have become commonplace in the world of design and on the streetwear scene, with many brands incorporating this into their designs.
Using a variety of different materials and fabrics, some workwear pieces can be extremely tough and resistant to wear and tear. Whether it’s an oxford cloth shirt, a wool coat or a denim jacket, it’s important to make sure that the clothes you choose will last a long time.