When it comes to workwear, three words immediately come to mind: style, durability, and function. Since Levi Strauss revolutionized fashion with his jeans for miners in the 1870s, workwear has cemented itself as a cornerstone of both utility and timeless style.
While workwear has evolved over the decades to suit a broader audience, its core principle remains the same: it must be built to last. Whether you're outfitting yourself for the workshop or just aiming for a rugged, everyday look, these brands offer enduring, functional pieces that will serve you well for years to come.
Here’s a roundup of the heavy hitters in workwear you should have on your radar:
Red Wing
When it comes to tough-as-nails boots, Red Wing is in a league of its own. Known for their iconic moc-toe boots, this American brand uses durable veg-tan leather to create footwear that's as rugged as it is stylish.
David Beckham has been spotted donning a pair, blending workwear toughness with his own signature style.
Red Wing's boots are especially popular among raw denim fans, thanks to the way the indigo hues complement the leather for that perfect worn-in look.
Carhartt
You can’t talk about workwear without mentioning Carhartt. With over a century of experience, Carhartt’s brown duck-canvas jackets have become emblematic of durable outerwear.
To appeal to a younger, more style-conscious crowd, Carhartt launched Carhartt WIP (Work In Progress). This line brings fresh designs that maintain Carhartt’s toughness while offering modern streetwear appeal.
Carhartt WIP brings a fresh, youthful, and more contemporary vibe.
Filson
Filson has been outfitting adventurers and outdoorsmen since the late 1800s. Whether you're hunting, fishing, or simply exploring, Filson's gear is designed to handle the elements.
What sets Filson apart is their dedication to heritage and quality. Most of their products are still made in the U.S., and they continue to focus on craftsmanship over mass production.
Taylor Stitch
Founded by three friends in California in 2007, Taylor Stitch was born from a desire to create the perfect shirt. Since then, they’ve expanded their line to include workwear-inspired pieces like shirt jackets and denim.
Taylor Stitch’s designs lean heavily on workwear aesthetics, but with modern updates that make them perfect for everyday wear. Their pieces are as comfortable as they are hard-wearing.
Dickies
A workwear staple since the 1930s, Dickies is known for providing durable, affordable clothing that stands the test of time. In recent years, they’ve made inroads into the streetwear world, bringing their functional roots into the realm of fashion.
Their versatile pieces are equally at home in a workshop or a city street, making them a favorite among style-conscious, budget-friendly shoppers.
Buck Mason
Buck Mason combines minimalist aesthetics with workwear sensibility. Their collection includes everything from flannel shirts to denim and jackets, all designed with both comfort and longevity in mind.
What sets Buck Mason apart is their ability to modernize workwear staples, making them approachable and easy to integrate into your everyday wardrobe.
Le Mont St Michel
Despite its claim of being a relatively young brand, Le Mont St Michel has been producing workwear since 1913. They revamped their image in the late 1990s to appeal to a more fashion-forward audience but still maintain a strong commitment to quality.
Their flagship product, the shirt jacket, is made from tightly woven moleskin cotton, a fabric known for its water resistance and durability. Moleskin is to French workwear what denim is to American workwear, making their pieces a symbol of French craftsmanship.
OrSlow
Inspired by classic American workwear and military designs, OrSlow offers a Japanese take on timeless pieces. Known for their roomy fits and ultra-durable materials, OrSlow’s clothing is a long-term investment for those who appreciate craftsmanship.
With standout items like shirt jackets, cargo pants, and raw denim, OrSlow has built a reputation for quality "Made in Japan" products that never go out of style.
These brands represent the best of workwear, offering pieces that are not only built to last but also capable of evolving with your personal style. Whether you're after rugged boots, durable outerwear, or versatile basics, these brands have you covered.
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