Workwear fashion is by no means a new phenomenon. However, in recent years, we are seeing a growing trend of fashion brands and designers deriving inspiration directly from classic workwear styles and influences. In fact, Pinterest searches for ‘workwear’ have increased by 60% over the last three months alone.
Referring to typically utilitarian styles of clothing that would be worn in traditional workplaces such as factories, workwear is now bridging the gap between functionality and fashion.
John Johnston, Head of E-Commerce at Workwear Express, the UK’s leading provider of Workwear clothing, outlines how and why the workwear trend is becoming so popular within the fashion landscape.
“Workwear first entered the fashion sphere in the early 1990s, commonly associated with 90’s hip-hop and skater fashion. Since its introduction to mainstream fashion, workwear has now become interlinked with casual streetwear styles to have its own place in the modern fashion world.
“Social media is a huge driver of the modern workwear fashion trend, with people flocking to online platforms such as TikTok and Pinterest to share outfit inspiration with the masses. Over on TikTok, the hashtag #workwearfashion has received a staggering 51.8 million views and the #utilityfashion hashtag has been viewed 1.9 million times.
Why has workwear become so popular in the fashion world?
“Workwear has gained such popularity as everyday fashion pieces due to the practicality of the design, making it the perfect part of an everyday outfit. The typical boxy silhouettes and loose fits make workwear ideal for maximising comfort, rather than focusing on form-fitting designs that may be uncomfortable for everyday use.
“Another key benefit of workwear is its durability – workwear is designed to be long-lasting. This is great from a sustainability perspective and taps into shifting consumer behaviour, as many consumers are becoming more sustainable-conscious, and are moving away from fast fashion, focusing on sustainable, long-lasting pieces of clothing.
“This is also beneficial from a cost perspective, as consumers look to invest in affordable, yet durable and long-lasting clothing that they will get many years of use from.
“The core essence of workwear embraces both minimalism and durability, making for the perfect fashion item to incorporate into layered outfits in the autumn. The minimalistic design means that workwear can easily be paired with other pieces of clothing, like industrial style footwear such as Dr. Martens, completing the autumnal look.
“Even major fashion houses are embracing the workwear trend, with Japanese fashion house, Sacai launching their collaboration with Carhartt WIP for their Fall/Winter 2023 collection.
How can you incorporate workwear items into your everyday wardrobe?
“Some of the most popular, affordable workwear brands include Carhartt, Dickies, Timberland, Helly Hansen, and Caterpillar.
“In fact, here at Workwear Express, we have seen a 22% increase year on year for Carhartt brand sales. Brand searches on the website for ‘Carhartt’ are up by 37% year on year, and searches for ‘cargo pants’ have also increased by 35% this year.
“With the popularity of workwear on the rise, there are plenty of ways you can incorporate workwear into your everyday outfits as we approach the autumn months.”
- Workwear Shirts & Jackets – Perfect for layering as part of your autumn outfits, workwear shirts and jackets not only offer a little extra warmth, but are also extremely practical with their oversized pockets. The loose fit of these items also ensures maximum comfort.
- Cargo Pants – Another staple of the workwear fashion trend is cargo pants. Their loose fit, combined with the heavier material than everyday trousers and jeans, make for a durable, yet comfortable wear. Again, they benefit from plenty of large pockets, making them more secure than jeans for storing your wallet, keys, or mobile phone etc.
- Workwear Fleeces – Industrial and workwear branded high-neck jumpers and fleeces are proving particularly popular for online fashion trends, and are ideal for adding an extra layer of warmth and comfort in the autumn and winter months, but are also breathable due to the loose fitting design and silhouette.
- Overalls & Dungarees – All-in-one items such as overalls, dungarees and boiler suits are staples in the workwear sector that can easily be incorporated into a chic autumnal outfit. The all-in-one element is ideal for providing maximum comfort, as well as additional warmth for the cooler months of the year. Often being designed with large pockets, practicality and comfort are at the forefront.
