The Utility trend makes a stronger statement with each passing season. Our casual fashion era and the popularity of irregular outfit juxtapositions have made wardrobe items with utility detailing more versatile and appealing than ever. It makes sense that the trend continues to work well at retail.
Think cargo pockets, carpenter pants, chinos, field jackets, utility jackets, chore jackets, camouflage, netting, webbing, drawstrings, and casual items in shades of tan, khaki and olive. Remix items with a utility vibe both in casual and dressy outfits.
Here are four easy casual utilitarian outfits to get you started. Some of the looks are Utility-Lite, because why not!
1. Utilitarian White Jeans
This is the most utilitarian looking of the four outfits, but not hardcore. Combine white jeans with a black top or slogan tee. Add black sandals, mules or loafers to pick up the black of the top. Top things off with a utility jacket in an earthy shade of olive, tan or khaki.
2. Utilitarian Blazer
This is the easiest outfit to pull together. Combine a pair of olive or khaki utility pants or chinos with a black top, black blazer and black sandals. Sub the black for grey or navy if black is not your thing. Or lighten it up with shades of white up top, and metallic sandals.
3. Utilitarian Dress
There are many, many styles of utility dress and jumpsuit that needn’t be sleeveless or as fitted. Feel free to style it any way you like. I enjoyed the unique juxtaposition of boho espadrilles and tote, ‘80s headband, and ‘60s eyewear here. A pair of wedged sandals and crossbody might be more your thing. Or sneakers, mules, sandal booties and gladiators with a satchel.
4. Utilitarian Pretty
Last is a very subtle utility look because the wide crops are utility-lite and and the rest is whatever you want it to be. Combine utility wide crops with a soft and pretty blouse or knit top in a colour that matches the bottoms. Finish things off with chunky platform sandals. I like the navy, mustard and rust colour mix here. The striped draped pullover is a fun and practical touch. Add jewellery, eyewear and watch as desired.
