These Are The Utility Staples To Invest In Now
Utility dressing is a perennial favorite: easy to wear, universally flattering and effortlessly cool. Read on to discover the workwear-inspired styles to wear now
The practical nature of utility dressing means it could easily be mistaken for boring, but as tastemakers continually prove, it’s anything but. Loose-fitting jumpsuits, tailored cargo pants and oversized field jackets in versatile earth tones have become staples of a stylish wardrobe and were all celebrated on the SS25 runways.
Arguably the easiest way to embrace the trend is with a jumpsuit. Functional, fuss-free and undeniably cool, few styles are more liberating, hence why designers like Stella McCartney often incorporate them in their collections. This one from the London-based label’s Resort ’25 lineup is cut from washed organic cotton-canvas in a relaxed shape complete with an elasticated waist and riveted pockets inspired by traditional workwear. Layer yours with a turtleneck top, such as Agolde’s ‘Pascale’ style, during the winter months. Both pieces are part of our NET SUSTAIN edit and crafted using lower-impact materials.
Sometimes a jacket is all you need to make an outfit sing, and the coolest tend to be utility-inspired. Made from garment-dyed cotton-drill, Loewe’s cropped version borrows design elements from flight and chore styles for a modern take on the classics. Both the shearling collar and lining are detachable for maximum wearability, too. Balance the casual feel with Proenza Schouler’s wide-leg ‘Savannah’ pants and polished accessories, like Neous’s ‘Dorado’ shoulder bag in glossed burgundy leather, and sleek cat-eye sunglasses.
Of course, no utility dress code would be complete without a trench coat. Originally designed for outdoor pursuits and military service, it has become one of the most iconic and enduring trans-seasonal staples to have in your closet. First seen in the Resort ’25 presentation, Saint Laurent’s long-length version has an oversized shape for an air of Parisian insouciance and looks impossibly chic belted over tailoring. Complete a timeless ensemble with Gucci’s ‘Horsebit 1953’ loafers and sleek silver hoops, such as Laura Lombardi’s pair from our NET SUSTAIN edit.
For a look that feels a touch more feminine, Saint Laurent’s A-line skirt is an elegant choice. Nodding to the label’s iconic safari look that originally debuted in 1968, it comes in olive-green cotton-canvas with utilitarian pockets and has a flattering nipped-in waist. Echo one of SS25’s key styling tricks by wearing it with a simple white tank and shrug a leather jacket over the top. Part of our NET SUSTAIN edit and crafted from lower-impact materials, Nour Hammour’s biker-inspired ‘Clint’ style is a tried-and-true classic.
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