Chore coats are modeled after a classic French men’s workwear silhouette. It was designed to be worn during rigorous labor and can withstand a beating. Nowadays, this style is a little more easy-going, made from durable denim or twill cotton fabric. The chore coat or utility jacket should be a ubiquitous part of your outerwear wardrobe. And I have found my perfect one.
While most chore coats tend to be in the men’s section, the H&M Denim Utility Jacket is the perfect combination of structured and oversized. It has enough room to put a sweater underneath if you want to add an extra layer but the seams and structure allow you to pair it with a sundress or t-shirt without drowning you. The large pockets let you forgo a bag if you’re running out to the corner store (which is a godsend for me) and I can easily cuff the sleeves since my height means most things are way too long on me.
What I truly love about this piece is how it goes with almost everything I own. I can throw it over a dress or t-shirt and look put-together. I can fold it into a tote bag as an extra layer for when the temperature starts to drop a little bit and it won’t wrinkle.
Other Chore Coats You Should Add To Your Closet:
This jacket from Everlane is on the shorter side, hitting right a the hip with a slightly boxy fit.
If you want a lighter option, the Tencel/Cotton blend of the Lacausa Clare Coat is a great layering piece for warmer weather.
The Ingrid Relaxed Denim Chore Jacket from TRAVE gives you the workwear-inspired shape but features a more open, lapel collar.
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