3 Ways To Wear It

Long-sleeved T-shirt + crossbody bag + non-cargo trousers

Urban Outfitters

The biggest benefit of utility-wear is functionality. However, that doesn’t mean it has to be a trade-off between functionality and style. The right piece can be easily working it into your everyday attire to give it a touch of the trend.

A simple way of making this work without dipping more than a toe into the trend is by basing your look around a simple utility vest. The gilet-esque shape is not too disruptive so choose it in black and keep everything else simple and it will do all the heavy lifting for you.

Layer over a long-sleeve white tee to maintain the simple theme – don’t go too oversized but make sure all of your pieces offer a relaxed feel. And break up the look with some streetwear-friendly loose-leg trousers (choose a non-cargo style to wear the trend lightly) and finish off with some fresh technical trainers.

Utility jacket + cargo pants + boots

Zara

Here’s an example of how you can boldly wear the utilitarian trend without looking like you’ve raided a surplus store. Find a utility-style jacket, complete with pockets and epaulets, but look for one that’s cropped or obviously been made by a fashion designer, not somebody kitting out an army.

Wear it again with cargo trousers but again make it a fashion decision by looking for an oversized pair that nobody in their right mind would wear into combat.

For a finishing touch, try accenting the look with camo – but on a piece that doesn’t have the military connotation, like a bucket hat.

Field jacket + cargo pants + chunky soles

Urban Outfitters

If you’re more willing to experiment, we can dial things up slightly. Camo print was usually made to keep you hidden but on a field jacket, it’s a simple way of standing out. The key is to let the print shine and surround it with simple tones and maintain an earthy palette throughout.