The Workwear Takeover: Street Style’s Love Affair with Functionality and Form

Street style’s latest obsession isn’t about glittering extravagance or over-the-top statements—it’s about getting back to work. The workwear trend, with its rugged functionality and no-nonsense silhouettes, has officially infiltrated the wardrobes of the fashion-forward, turning utility into a new form of luxury. For fall 2024, workwear isn’t just practical; it’s political.

Blame it on our collective craving for authenticity. As flashy logos fade and quiet confidence reigns supreme, workwear embodies a raw, grounded energy that feels right now. Oversized utility jackets, boxy trousers, and sturdy boots dominate the streetwear circuit, each piece offering a subtle nod to the blue-collar roots of fashion. It’s a way of dressing that says, “I’ve got things to do,” but with a wink of irony—because let’s be real, those Carhartt jackets and Dickies pants are more likely to see a coffee shop than a construction site.

The genius of the workwear trend lies in its adaptability. Layer an oversized work jacket over a crop top and wide-leg jeans, and you’re hitting the casual-cool sweet spot. Throw on a pair of polished loafers, and suddenly, you’re teetering on business casual—with a twist. Genderless in its essence, workwear transcends boundaries, blending the past with the present in a way that feels entirely fresh.

But let’s not get too romantic about it. The beauty of workwear in street style is that it doesn’t beg for attention—it just works. It’s utilitarian chic with a side of rebellion, challenging the idea that fashion needs to be overly complicated. As winter 2024 looms, this trend shows no signs of slowing down. Expect to see more durable fabrics, boxy cuts, and monochromatic palettes dominating the streets.

Workwear isn’t just a trend—it’s a movement. Rugged, raw, and undeniably cool, it’s street style’s answer to fashion with purpose.

Recommended Picks:

• H&M BUTTON-FRONT JACKET

• H&M LOOSE-FIT SHACKET

• DICKIES INSULATED EISENHOWER JACKET

• LIONESS WORKWEAR COTTON JACKET

• CARHARTT LOOSE FIT CANVAS DETROIT JACKET

• RECLAIMED VINTAGE SLOUCHY WIDE LEG PANTS

• DICKIES WIDE LEG WORK PANTS

Photos:

• PIERGUIDO GRASSANO

• Kuba Dabrowski/WWD