The Utility Trend: Functional Fashion Is In And Here’s How To Style It

In the fashion world, trends come and go faster than we think. However, there is one particular trend that we adore — and we reckon that it will not be dying down any time soon — utility wear.

Imagine practical oversized clothes in earthy tones. Functional fashion has taken the world by storm, with people donning overalls and utility vests, to chest rigs and rollercoaster belts. But how exactly does one style them?

Anorak

1. HUF Marka Anorak (70USD); 2. Topshop Stud Baker Boy Hat ($33.90); 3. Pomelo High Rise Cuffed Shorts ($39); 4. London Rag Adele Stylish Black Zipper Ankle Boots SH1681 ($71.99)

Dominating the Spring 2018 runways are anoraks. This long-sleeved top is a type of coat with a hood, perfect for rainy days. But with everything being so fashion-forward, the anorak now comes in various forms; from mini dresses to vests.

Constructed with lightweight nylon, the HUF Marka Anorak features the classic HUF logo on both the front and back. Get your anorak in an oversized fit for the ‘no-pants look’. Of course, no-pants does not mean no-pants at all. Throw on a simple pair of high-waisted shorts. Then, complete your outfit with ankle boots or heels, and a baker boy hat.

Chest Rig

1. ALYX Studio Chest Rig (€490); 2. Carhartt Canyon Coat; 3. Flesh Imp Sided Wings Oversized T-shirt ($20); 4. Fila Red Line Knit Pant ($168)

Kanye West, ASAP Rocky and Ian Connor. What do these people have in common? The ALYX Studio chest rig. The brand has gained recognition for their highly-coveted unconventional pieces. Emerging as one of the few unique streetwear brands, ALYX produces ready-to-wear and accessories that are out of the norm.

Wear a contrasting colour for your chest rig to stand out (though it is already outstanding on its own). Throw on an outerwear and a pair of sweats, and you’re good to go.

Combat Trousers

1. Topshop Petite Raya Vest Top ($16.90); 2. CARHARTT Rugged Flex Cargo Pant; 3. ALYX Rollercoaster Belt (€265); 4. Rag & Co Black Lace Up ($98.99)

These baggy cargo pants are all the rage for a good reason — utility pockets (very important!) on both pants legs, making this staple piece convenient and cute. The crumpled look makes for good streetwear pants, and it sort of screams “IDGAF”.

Life is a rollercoaster — but it doesn’t seem so bad with the ALYX Classic Rollercoaster belt, a unique piece that really straps you in. The loose-fitting garment is best paired with a tight-fitting top, namely the Topshop Petite Raya Vest Top. And relive your punk days by rocking the Black Lace Up boots.

Gilet

1.  COS Elastic-Detailed Padded Gilet (£39); 2. Pomelo Wide Leg Raw Hem Jeans ($54); 3. Mango Long Sleeve T-shirt ($19.90); 4. Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Core Hi Sneaker ($69.90)

It’s like a vest, but an upgraded version. The gilet is a sleeveless padded jacket, adding just the right amount of warmth. This smart casual clothing piece adds the right amount of jazz to your outfit, if you know how to style it. Otherwise, you might end up looking like your grandpa (and there’s nothing wrong with that, though!).

The elastic-detailed padded gilet from COS is a great investment, made with smooth technical fabric and with a high neck as well. The best way to beat the cold is to wear a long sleeved t-shirt under. Keep warm and look laid-back with a pair of jeans and Chuck Taylors.

Overalls

1. CARHARTT Double Front Bib Overall; 2. Kent And Curwen Hoop Striped Rugby Polo Shirt ($101); 3. Vans Sk8 Hi Sneakers ($109)

What is a utility wear article without featuring a pair of overalls? This comfortable garment is usually used as protection when working. With the freedom to move about without having to worry about your shirt getting untucked, overalls are truly life-changing.

All you require is a tee or polo shirt (preferably, a bright colour!) under your overalls, and a pair of high-cut sneakers. No other better way to wear it!

Tactical/Utility Vest

1. Pomelo Beau Oversized Tee ($14); 2. ALYX Tactical Vest (€980); 3. Topshop Check Trousers ($96.90); 4. C2H4 Utility Vest (220USD)

We’re all up for new ways to layer our clothes, right? Enter the tactical/utility vest. This vest has a rugged and boxy look, and many brands have hopped on to the bandwagon by creating their own stylish vests. With the amount of pockets on tactical/utility vests, you will never run out of space to stash your personal belongings!

Major plus points to people who dare to wear bright colours — pair your tactical/utility vest with attention-grabbing trousers.

 


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