Once regarded as the mere preserve of manual workers, the chore jacket has evolved over the years to garner a reputation as a fully fledged menswear staple. And it's not hard to see why. With its sturdy construction, pared-back aesthetic and high comfort value, it strikes the ultimate smart-casual balance and is ideal for teaming with just about any outfit. Eager to find the chore jacket of your dreams? Read our guide to men's chore jackets for everything you need to know about this fail-safe wardrobe saviour, including its history, how to wear it and the best men's chore jackets to buy in 2024.
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A brief history of chore jackets
The origins of the chore jacket can be traced back to late 19th century France, when it was first developed as a utilitarian garment for railway labourers and engineers. Known as the 'bleu de travail' which translates to 'blue work', its purpose was purely practical, designed to endure the demands of physical labour.
The first chore jackets were traditionally made from hardwearing materials like cotton drill or moleskin – often dyed indigo or dark blue – with a simple collar, button-down front, cuffed sleeves and two or three patch pockets to store any tools required for the job at hand. A loose, slightly boxy fit was chosen for ease of movement and layering potential.
Fast forward to the present day and the chore jacket is more popular than ever, having evolved from its workwear roots to earn a well-deserved place in the mainstream style sphere. Available in all manner of materials, colours and cuts, it's a wardrobe essential that you simply can't go wrong with. Which brings us to...
How to wear a chore jacket
As we've touched upon, the beauty of the chore coat is its inherent versatility. This is a smart jacket that can be easily dressed up or down, making it the perfect go-to for those tricky occasions that call for smart-casual attire. Lean into its workwear roots and team it with a pair of selvedge denim jeans and Derby boots, or take it up a notch and work a business-casual look with a button-up shirt and tailored trousers. For a more laidback streetwear-inspired look, throw a chore jacket on over your favourite hoodie and team with drawstring trousers (the luxe kind, not that threadbare pair from your high school sporting days) and leather sneakers.
Best men's chore jackets to buy in 2024
Velasca
Discover Miglionico by Velasca - a testament to Italian craftsmanship and style. Meticulously crafted in Italy, we select only the finest materials and workshops, ensuring unparalleled quality. With a blend of classic design and artisanal production, each piece is imbued with timeless elegance and the prestigious made in Italy stamp.
Pini Parma
Introducing the Petrol Safari Jacket by Pini Parma, a versatile layering essential. Made in Italy from a lightweight blend of linen and wool, it offers comfort and breathability. Featuring practical pockets and a single-button cuff fastening, its unique texture blends the freshness of linen with the softness and insulation of wool.
Aurelien
Discover the Taupe Reversible Voyager Jacket by Aurélien, tailored for the modern explorer. Crafted with recycled fish nets for durability, its reversible design offers versatility. The wind and waterproof exterior, coupled with a cashmere blend interior, ensure comfort and style. With button closure cuffs and pockets, it's the epitome of chic Mediterranean elegance.
Private White
Introducing The Portland Pocket Jacket by Private White VC, a blend of utility and style. Crafted from exclusive 100% cotton panama weave, it features six pockets and military-grade hardware. With a regular fit and fully lined interior, it offers both comfort and functionality. Made in Manchester, England, it epitomizes British craftsmanship and heritage.
Wax London Whiting Overshirt
Wax London's chore jackets and overshirts are among its bestsellers, with the classic Whiting style having proven particularly popular. Made from recycled cotton and finished with eco-friendly corozo nut buttons, it's a sustainable – and stylish – everyday staple that you'll reach for time and again.
Closed Worker Jacket
This classic workwear-inspired jacket from German denim label Closed pays homage to the utilitarian roots of the classic chore jacket. As part of Closed's 'A Better Blue' collection, it's crafted from 100% regenerative cotton, with the aim of restoring depleted soils – so you can feel good about your purchase.
ISTO. Work Jacket
Cut from a premium heavyweight organic cotton fabric that's softened for extra comfort and a lived-in look, ISTO.'s Work Jacket is guaranteed to be a year-round go-to. Team it with cargo trousers and high top trainers for an effortless workwear-inspired look.
ASKET Overshirt
With its combination of military grade organic cotton fabric and careful tailoring, ASKET's sturdy overshirt is a wardrobe staple that you'll rely on for years to come. We love the fact that ASKET is fully transparent about its production, revealing the full breakdown of costs and the impact of its manufacturing on the environment.
Artknit Studios Organic Cotton Jacket
Made from 100% organic cotton, Artknit Studios' version of the classic chore jacket is a surefire summer staple that's lightweight yet durable. Wear it with a plain-white tee and mid-weight chinos for an elegant take on warm weather dressing.
Forét Heyday Overshirt
Crafted from organic cotton twill, this minimalist men's chore jacket from Danish label Forét is a fail-safe workwear-inspired staple that can be easily dressed up or down. Team it with drawstring trousers and leather trainers for a sports-luxe look or amp things up with tailored trousers and loafers for an effortless take on smart casual style.
Neem Recycled Italian Flannel Navy Overshirt
This utilitarian-inspired chore jacket from Neem epitomises the label's sustainable approach to craftsmanship. Made from 50% recycled cotton, it's a planet-friendly purchase that also happens to look the part. Team with tailored trousers and Derby shoes for a fail-safe office-friendly look.
L'Estrange 24 Overshirt
L'Estrange's take on the classic chore jacket is suitably sophisticated. The London-based label has done away with the extra pockets to create a pared back silhouette that places emphasis on quality of construction over extraneous detailing. Crafted from heavyweight Italian stretch cotton, it's the perfect year-round layering tool.
Carhartt Chore Jacket
The iconic Carhartt Chore Coat endures amidst evolving trends, rooted in heritage. Adaptations in design reflect technological shifts, yet its classic look remains steadfast. This men's heavyweight coat features a water-repellent, wind-resistant blanket-lined outer shell. With a signature corduroy collar dating back to the late 1930s and rugged firm-hand duck fabric, it only grows more resilient with time.
orSlow Denim Chore Jacket
Reimagining a timeless workwear staple from the 1940s, orSlow presents its coverall in lightly washed denim, fastened with vintage-inspired brass buttons. Meticulously crafted in Japan, it features triple-stitched detailing and a classic point collar, exuding authentic charm. With three front pockets for functionality, this 100% cotton garment epitomizes craftsmanship and heritage.
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