“Practical” is considered a dirty word in fashion. Fun and fantasy generate the most interest and likes. And fashion is still enthralled with whimsical trends as evidenced by the popularity of beaded bags, feather accents and the circus trend.
But the desire to have easy, chic pieces is strong and has translated into utilitarian dressing. Utility pieces are as trusty and versatile as a T-shirt or jeans, just a touch crisper. Utilitarian styles are the new basics that make getting dressed easy.
Trenches, vests, boilersuits, button-down shirts, cargo pants and everything and anything with pockets are key to the look. Crisp fabrics, lack of superfluous details and color palettes of beige, brown and green are also musts. But designers haven’t forgotten about style by putting utilitarian twists on unexpected pieces or playing with surprising fabrics and colors.
Here are 21 must-have pieces that combine form and function.
Utilitarian Dressing
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Zara
Ground Tone Utility Skort, $49.90 at Zara
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Citizens of Humanity
Una Surplus Pant, $218 at Free People
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& Other Stories
Cotton Utilitarian Midi Dress, $119 at & Other Stories
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Boohoo
Croc Utility Front Bag in Black, $15 at Boohoo
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ALDO
Gochal Cognac Boots, $140 at ALDO
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COS
Belted Wrap Skirt, $115 at COS
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H&M
Vest With Collar, $34.99 at H&M
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IRO
Harmony Belted Cotton Tapered Pants, $275 at Net-a-Porter
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Topshop
Utility Short Sleeve Blazer, $110 at Topshop
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Madewell
Utility Wide-Leg Pants, $95 at Madewell
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Violeta by Mango
Checkered Linen Trench, $169.99 at Mango
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Self Portrait
Camel Miniskirt, $300 at Shopbop
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Urban Outfitters
Faux Leather Utility Vest, $89 at Urban Outfitters
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Rails
Rowen Jacket, $228 at Shopbop
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Rag & Bone
Boa Grosgrain-Trimmed Lyocell-Blend Playsuit, $450 at Net-a-Porter
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Vince
Utility Skirt, $345 at Vince
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ModCloth
The Portland Pant in Black, $69 at ModCloth
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Veja
V 10 Sneaker, $140 at Revolve
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Apiece Apart
Deia Jumpsuit in Slipper, $395 at Apiece Apart
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Ganni
Two-Tone Shell Shorts, $170 at Net-a-Porter
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J.Crew
2011 Icon Trench, $228 at J.Crew
