Workwear and functional clothing has an appeal not lost on many of the world’s leading men's fashion designers. Multiple pockets, hard-wearing fabrics and boxy cuts result in comfortable garments that not only look good and last, but also serve a purpose. 

    

From worker jackets to overshirts to cargo pants, workwear was initially designed for those in manual jobs who required clothing they could rely on to do their job. But today, men's workwear is the go-to style of dressing for those who value comfortable, easy style that is suitable for both work and play. If you’re looking to build a workwear-inspired wardrobe, or you want to add to your existing collection, here’s where to begin. 

What is workwear style?

As the name suggests, workwear fashion has its roots in blue-collar trades such as carpentry and construction. Designed for ultimate functionality and crafted from hard-wearing, durable materials, men's workwear pieces have historically been made to ensure safety, comfort and ease of movement.

Expect neutral colours like brown, black, khaki and beige (intended to disguise dirt). Fabrics are sturdy and textures are often matte: think heavyweight cotton drill, raw denim, waxed cotton and thick flannel. Workwear style is also characterised by relaxed, rugged silhouettes and functional features like multiple pockets, zippers and buttons.

In recent decades, traditional workwear style has evolved to extend beyond the realms of blue-collar work, becoming adopted more widely by the fashion set and menswear style circles. The rigid fabrics, utilitarian minimalism and boxy cuts of men's workwear are now ubiquitous, appropriated by high street labels, streetwear brands and high fashion designers alike.

Key men's workwear pieces

Overshirt

Our pick: Wax London

If there’s a single item to pinch from the workwear archive, it’s the overshirt. Often crafted from rugged materials like heavy cotton or canvas, the overshirt straddles practicality and style in equal measure. Typically showcasing a boxy silhouette, squared hem, and two oversized chest pockets, it’s nothing short of a layering powerhouse. Toss it over a T-shirt or lightweight knit, and it pulls its weight as a functional outer layer during unpredictable weather. Pair it with chinos and boots for a time-honoured workwear-inspired ensemble, or keep it laid-back with jeans and canvas trainers. Its understated appeal and versatility anchor it firmly in any wardrobe.

Carpenter pants

Our pick: Stan Ray

Carpenter pants have shuffled from their utilitarian origins straight into modern menswear. Known for their tool-friendly details, these trousers boast extra pockets, hammer loops, and a relaxed, straight-leg cut. Their heavyweight cotton fabric withstands years of wear, while reinforced zones like double knees shrug off abrasions. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged allure of Carhartt’s iconic versions or a sleeker reimagining, carpenter pants align effortlessly with overshirts or sweatshirts. Round off the look with boots or high-tops, and you’ve nailed the perfect blend of practicality and off-duty cool.

Gilet

Our pick: Aubin

What was once a polarising choice has become a cornerstone of functional style. The gilet, with its sleeveless design, provides core warmth without sacrificing mobility, making it an ideal layering piece. Modern options range from quilted down for colder months to hard-wearing canvas or wool blends for a tactile, workwear-inspired aesthetic. Worn over knitwear or a flannel shirt, it adds depth and character to any outfit. Pair it with selvedge denim and rugged boots for an ensemble ready to tackle the elements with ease. The gilet proves that versatility can be both understated and impactful.

Denim shirt

Our pick: ASKET

A well-crafted denim shirt doesn’t just fit into a workwear wardrobe—it anchors it. Durable and dependable, it balances ruggedness with versatility, making it a go-to for any occasion. Heavyweight versions bring structure and toughness, while softer chambray options lean into casual, comfortable styling. Worn tucked under a worker jacket or open over a T-shirt, it adapts to every situation with ease. Over time, it develops character through fades and creases, turning it into a unique, lived-in piece. Its ability to seamlessly navigate smart and casual settings is what makes it a timeless staple.

Denim jeans

Our pick: Closed

The enduring appeal of denim jeans lies in their ability to evolve with the wearer. Originally built for miners and labourers, they’re now an icon of durability and style. Raw or selvedge denim versions offer a weighty, unprocessed feel that develops into something entirely personal over time. Whether you wear them with a chore coat and boots or cuff them for a relaxed look with trainers, they remain a cornerstone of workwear-inspired dressing. Their unassuming nature belies their importance, proving that the simplest pieces often make the biggest impact.

Worker jacket

Our pick: Wax London

Few garments tell a story as well as the worker jacket. Born in the 19th century as ‘bleu de travail’ (working blues) for French labourers, it was designed to endure the rigours of factory work. Modern versions stay true to these roots with hard-wearing fabrics like cotton twill or duck canvas, while updates in fit and colour have made them staples in contemporary wardrobes. Its patch pockets are as practical as they are stylish, and its boxy cut makes layering a breeze. Throw it over a rollneck or sweatshirt, add selvedge denim and boots, and you’ve got a timeless, functional look.

Laced work boots

Our pick: Velasca

Thanks to their robust construction and rugged style, work boots – particularly laced styles – have taken the mainstream fashion scene by storm. They're perfect for the winter months and best paired with raw denim jeans or chinos, an overshirt and an overcoat.

Overalls

Our pick: Carhartt

Few items embody the spirit of workwear like overalls. Built for practicality, they come with multiple pockets, reinforced seams, and details like hammer loops that harken back to their industrial origins. Today, they’ve stepped out of the workshop and into the fashion spotlight, blending functionality with bold style. Wear them with a white T-shirt for a relaxed, everyday look, or smarten them up with a rollneck and polished boots for a more refined approach. Whether crafted from indigo denim, canvas, or corduroy, overalls are a statement piece that stands the test of time.

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