As is the case with certain items of clothing such as the classic sweatshirt and trusty denim jeans, the work jacket's roots lie firmly in the functional. Originally created for those with manual jobs – the likes of labourers, factory workers and farmers – worker jackets (also known as chore coats or utility jackets) took years of roughing up before they became a menswear staple.
Designed with a multitude of pockets and usually made out of durable fabrics like cotton drill or moleskin, the chore coat is an ideal layering piece and a staple in any transitional wardrobe. It works just as well on its own as it does worn under a heavier piece of outerwear. In warmer months, wear it over a T-shirt as a summer jacket.
What is a worker jacket?
A worker jacket is defined by its shape and pockets. It’s traditionally cut with a boxy fit (to allow its wearers ease of movement while operating machinery), and comes with three exterior patch pockets for storing tools and the like.
Worker jackets tend to have a slightly longer length than regular shirts, finishing below the waistline, and are made from hard-wearing fabrics befitting of their heritage. First worn by railway labourers and engineers in France in the late 1800s, chore coats are known as bleu de travail in their native land, thanks to the bright blue colour they were dyed in there.
As such, you can find plenty of blue French worker jackets on the vintage market, but many contemporary brands have reinterpreted the style in their own shades, cuts and finishes. The worker jacket is one of the most popular styles of outerwear today, and for good reason.
It's a durable, versatile piece of clothing that works with a range of personal styles, so whether you're into your workwear or prefer a more minimalist take on dressing, it's the perfect go-to. Keen to elevate your wardrobe? Scroll on for our pick of the best men's worker jackets to buy now.
Best brands to buy a men's worker jacket in 2025
ISTO.
Made in Portugal, ISTO.’s Work Jacket is cut from heavyweight 300gsm cotton, and does away with the chest pocket for a more minimalist, structured take on the classic style. It's available in a spread of versatile colour options – including a nice cobalt blue for that classic French workwear look – to pair perfectly with jeans, penny loafers and a striped T-shirt.
forét
Danish label Forét presents this minimalist take on a workwear classic. Made in Portugal from 100% organic cotton twill, the Rowan Logo Overshirt is durable yet refined. Typical utilitarian details include triple patch pockets and button cuffs, plus there's a Forét script logo to the back. Complete the look with a baseball cap and baggy jeans.
Carhartt
If any brand excels at workwear, it's Carhartt. Epitomising its expertise, the brand's iconic Detroit Jacket in water resistant canvas is as sturdy as they come. The plain black colour lends it ultimate versatility while a corduroy collar and striped lining add a touch of character. Look to combine with streetwear staples like hoodies, worker pants and baseball caps.
Wax London
A contemporary workwear aesthetic underpins Wax London's premium menswear offering, and the label's patchwork Whiting overshirt is no different. It's sturdy and hard-wearing, crafted from heavyweight organic cotton twill with a boxy silhouette and utilitarian-inspired patch pockets. Its patchwork design offers the perfect way to perk up an otherwise-average outfit.
Closed
German label Closed is always taking design risks that, evidently, pay off. This men's worker jacket uses a special reactive dyeing process that gives it a worn, lived-in feel. It nicely occupies the space between smart and casual, combining a luxurious, super-soft feel and a sleek workwear-inspired cut. Dress it up with elegant tailored trousers or layer it over a hoodie for an elevated sportswear look.
ASKET
ASKET specialises in versatile seasonless staples that are made to last. This timeless, trend transcending denim worker jacket - sitting somewhere between a trucker jacket and chore coat - is one of the brand's core essentials, ideal for forming a capsule wardrobe around. Wear it with a plain white tee, black jeans and Chelsea boots for a fail-safe everyday look.
Universal Works
Universal Works has long excelled at blending workwear heritage with modern, wearable design. Its Bakers Jacket is the perfect example. Cut from heavyweight cotton twill, it’s structured without feeling stiff and finished with classic utilitarian patch pockets. It’s the kind of jacket that slips seamlessly into any wardrobe, pairing effortlessly with chinos, denim or even relaxed tailoring.
Percival
British label Percival puts a contemporary spin on the traditional worker jacket with its versatile Sorrento overshirt. Made from breezy linen fabric with a hint of stretch, it’s designed to feel broken-in from the off. Finished with oversized patch pockets and a boxy cut, it works just as well over a hoodie as it does with a camp-collar shirt and tailored trousers.
For more men's workwear, check out our guide to the best overshirts for men.
