Updated Utilitarian: Casual Essentials Made Modern
Utilitarian fashion (half military/half safari) is getting a chic update. Exciting new pieces and fresh proportions give casual utilitarian essentials a modern spirit.
Before digging into what’s new, let’s review basic utility style.
This is a way of dressing where function meets fashion. Utility fashion is comfortable and convenient, but it’s also very stylish.
Classic Utility Style incorporates these elements
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- Plant colored neutrals: Think of dense forest and jungle, colors like mossy greens, tans, warm brown, khaki, sandy beige, army fatigue.
- Durable Materials that get the job done: poplin, quilted nylon, lightweight cloth, robust canvas, and denim- strong, comfortable, and weather-resistant.
- Unisex Fits that work for both men and women- structured shapes with a relaxed fit like cargo pants, safari shirts, turncoats, and utility jumpsuits.
- Pockets: practical pockets often oversized to store stuff- patch, flap, zip, velcroed, or buttoned.
- Travel Accessories that work for the Adventurer lifestyle – sporty watches, backpacks, canvas hats, leather belts, practical suede or leather boots.
Cargo pants, utility skirts, field jackets, tees, and trendy denim are the most loved utilitarian essentials.
These practical fashion staples are always in style, but recent tweaks have made them more fashion-forward.
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Here’s what’s New in Utility Style for 2024
1. Relaxed Low Slung Chinos & High Rise Cargo Pants
This year, instead of boxy midrise cargo pants, we’re seeing slimmer, low-slung chinos that are a little loose around the hips and waist. This gives them a relaxed, cool girl look.
High-waisted cargo pants that are straight-leg, flare, or wide-leg are also a big hit! Utility joggers are on trend, too. I own two pairs and adore their pared-down look and slim fit compared to the older, boxy cargo pant styles.
2. Structured Tees
Structured tees with bold shoulders look like throwbacks to the 1980s. Most have short sleeves, and some have cuffs.
Other tees have wide, angular drop shoulders that look very military. There’s no denying these new tees have a very powerful, commanding look.
3. Cropped & Oversize Jackets
An army-style utility jacket is the easiest way to capture the military vibe. There are many variations on the classic army jacket, including the military vest. What they all have in common are utilitarian details like epaulets, top stitching, zippers, tab sleeves, and brass buttons.
Right now, two styles are trending: cropped and oversized. Go big, go small, or go home!
4. Midi Cargo Skirts
The Utility look can be quite masculine, so seeing many cargo skirts this spring is great.
The biggest change is that midi cargo skirts are all the rage instead of standard-length skirts. Denim midi skirts are a close second.
Wear a midi cargo skirt with a simple cotton tee or a pretty, feminine cotton shirt. Then add a great belt. The most popular midi utilitarian skirts have a slit up the front.
skirt
5. Chunky Flatforms & Birkenstocks
Practical, chunky flatform sandals and Birkenstocks are a no-brainer when it comes to Utilitarian style. These heavy-duty slides, with their natural cork sole, are uber comfy, a perfect fit for this functional, cool dressing style.
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Final Style Tip
Even though you may like the new update on the Utilitarian look, don’t wear it head-to-toe.
An army jacket worn with wide-leg jeans and Birkenstocks is modern and on-trend, but an army jacket with camo pants and heavy combat boots will make you look like you belong in the armed forces.
Here are more Modern Utility Pieces in Stores Right now.
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So what do you think? Do you like the updated utility fashion trend, or is it still too practical and masculine for you? Please drop me a comment below and weigh in.
There is no one look for everybody! I love the military style and think it looks great on me. If one is “Dressing your Truth,” it either works for you or doesn’t. This is why I dress for myself and don’t follow what someone else says is the “in” look now. :-) Sorry, but I also disagree with the statement, “The colors of the utilitarian look can be rather dull on their own – olive, navy, camel,” etc.
Olive and Camel are my go-to neutrals.I don’t own a stitch of black, which is dull on me.
I’ve never been a fan of the military look but would wear the last outfit, minus the heels.
I love the military look and always have…but that last ensemble is so chic and gorgeous. I love what you did here, Deborah!
I love this utilitarian/military look. I am already set to wear a jacket similar to the one shown. The other suggestions are fabulous and will be keeping these in mind this Spring as I pull together my wardrobe.
Ohfergoshsakes. No, this isn’t too dull or masculine. It’s like wearing a ‘tough’ looking leather jacket with a ruffled shirt, a floral scarf, high heels, or a pretty floral belt with jeans. It’s playing one thing off another, which is exciting and engaging.
How does one carry a bright pink purse while sporting high heels and think it is “too dull or masculine?”
We have seen both before. The safari looks dated to the 90s and still looks the same. The military look was crazy in the 80s, thanks to Michael Jackson and sister Janet, then spawned some hideous camouflage craze we still cannot get rid of. That includes camp print in neon (sort of defeats the purpose of “camo”).
Anyhow, I like the trend as you show it. Why? It is clean and straightforward I will wear it if I don’t have to enlist.
Hi Kathy,
Great suggestion about the Marsala. I like that idea. If anyone tries it, please send in a photo! Cheers, Deborah