FINAL

How workwear went from functional to fashionable

Title: The Evolution of Workwear: From Functionality to Fashion

In the heart of the Midwest, Fleet Farm stands as a testament to the traditional roots of workwear, serving the needs of farmers and exurban dwellers seeking tools, tractor parts, and hunting gear. However, in recent years, a surprising shift has occurred, transforming workwear into a fashion statement that extends far beyond the farm.

Fleet Farm’s regional vice president, Chris McCool, has observed an interesting trend at their outlets. While the customer base has traditionally been comprised of manual laborers and farmers, there has been a noticeable influx of individuals who may not be engaged in heavy physical work. McCool humorously notes that even high school girls are clamoring for men’s Carhartt hats in a variety of colors, attributing this phenomenon to what he calls the “Yellowstone effect” or, more broadly, the hipster effect. I asked Ava why she got a Carhartt hat she said “Because some of my friends got them and I liked how it looked so I got on.”

This shift from functional to fashionable workwear has reached unexpected heights, with celebrities like Rihanna and former President Barack Obama embracing the trend. Timberland work boots and Dickies overalls are no longer exclusive to plumbers and software engineers; they’ve become staples in mainstream fashion. Urban Outfitters even sells Carhartt crop tops, a clear departure from the original purpose of workwear designed for heavy machinery operation. I asked Summer who has worn Carhartt sweatshirts in past why she wore Carhartt she said “well because it is trendy and they are comfortable and keep me warm in the winter.”

The history of workwear dates back to the 1800s when clothes were individually tailored, even for farmers and laborers. The need for durable garments like blue jeans became vital, leading to the widespread adoption of denim and the coining of the term “blue collar.” World War II played a pivotal role in workwear going mainstream, as companies like Dickies and Levi’s produced uniforms and jeans for women stepping into the workforce.

The 1990s marked another turning point when skaters and hip-hop artists embraced workwear for its tough material and rugged aesthetic. Dickies, once a niche brand, is now experiencing mass-market interest, with Walmart becoming one of its biggest retail partners. In 2019, Dickies expanded its line to include everyday clothing, offering workwear silhouettes in lighter fabrics and brighter colors to cater to a broader audience. I asked River why he wears Dickies pants he said “there durable and comfortable and don’t wear down as easier as my other pants when I shake.”

The story comes full circle with individuals like Jeremy Epstein in Brooklyn, New York, who has become a workwear collector, spending a significant sum on Carhartt alone. Epstein, a former Wall Street professional turned college professor, jokily admits to being more of a poseur than a genuine American truck-driving guy. His favorite piece, a Carhartt bomber jacket with a custom silk-screen design, bears the word “ephalent,” a playful homage to how his daughter used to say “elephant.”

As workwear transcends its functional origins to become a canvas for self-expression, it’s clear that the fusion of durability and style has created a lasting impact, making workwear a timeless and versatile wardrobe choice for individuals from all walks of life.