Why the Men’s Workwear Trend is Here to Stay

Our fixation with workwear is going nowhere fast. With authentic utilitarian influences at its core, this trend exhibits a fusion of relaxed cuts and functional design elements, effortlessly leveraged by premium quality materials. Designs are cool, casual and edged with originality - but best of all, they’re versatile. Adapting to all body shapes and sizes, workwear fashion is long lasting and entirely gender-fluid, too.

Speaking of the trend, our Buying Manager, Mithun, explains: “Workwear and utility has been prevalent in menswear for some time. We respond to the clean cuts, durable fabrics and the nonchalance of the outfit. These products are seeing more of a boom now due to the gender fluidity, body positivity and authenticity of the product.”

Why is everyone wearing Carhartt WIP now?

Sitting at the forefront of this fashion movement is Carhartt WIP. Founded in 1994 by Edwin Faeh, Carhartt WIP (Work In Progress) draws inspiration from original Carhartt workwear, reimagining these designs to create a series of authentically fresh, easy-to-wear classics.

Since opening its first store in London in 1997, the brand has gone on to amass 80 stores worldwide, as well as forging a spectrum of collaborations with the likes of Nike, A.P.C., Converse and Motown, to name just a few. These successes have catapulted Carhartt WIP’s following, with celebs such as Brooklyn Beckham and Daniel Day-Lewis in favour of the brand’s relaxed silhouettes.

What are the most popular workwear brands?

While Carhartt continues to lead the charge on workwear, the likes of Summit and Dickies are enjoying a moment in the spotlight, too. Proud to be ‘fashionable and functional’, much like Carhartt WIP, Dickies started out as a traditional workwear brand but has since evolved into a global force with an unwavering commitment to straightforward, long lasting style. Summit, on the other hand, specialise in luxurious everyday fabrications met with a British design heritage. Think heavyweight hoodies, puffer coats and acid wash T-Shirts - in essence, simply styled, superb quality goods with a cool and contemporary edge.

5 top tips on how to wear the workwear trend with Fenwick

Love the look? Carhartt WIP is here to infuse your everyday edit with authentic workwear influences. From corduroy shirts and denim jackets to logo caps and sweatshirts (plus more), these versatile staples will prove to be key investment pieces. All you need now is these workwear styling tips…

1. Consider functionality

Ultimately, workwear is a uniform, so be sure to keep this at the forefront of your mind when building your outfit. Keep things cohesive by opting for a matching top and bottoms ensemble. Or, if you feel like breaking things up a little, layer a crisp white t-shirt beneath your jacket or hoodie. Footwear wise, lace up boots are the way to go.

2. Relaxed fits work best

Skinny fits have no place. Relaxed fits, on the other hand? Let loose.

3. Colour is key

With this trend, a muted palette is perfect. Avoid colour clashing by opting for shades of khaki, navy, black, olive and deep reds. Flashes of neon safety yellow or orange can be introduced for those craving a more contemporary vibe.

4. It’s all in the details

But be sure to keep it practical. Turn your attention to authentic workwear-inspired features that serve a genuine purpose - additional pockets, stretchy fabric and reinforced seams, for example.

5. Embrace accessories

Accessories will instantly elevate your look - but again, think practical. Beanies, backpacks, belts and bum bags all work a treat.

Why you should invest in the workwear trend?

Centred around expert craftsmanship, unmatched comfort and premium quality materials, while pieces are pared back, they are well worth the investment. These styles are peerlessly versatile with a wear-on-repeat appeal you’ll never tire of.