Casual Fridays are a staple in the UK. It’s a day where the usual work dress codes are relaxed and a more laid-back attire is welcomed. But that doesn’t mean you can’t still look stylish and chic. One iconic piece that has consistently remained in vogue is the utility jacket. Utilitarian in nature but high on style, this jacket is a versatile addition to your wardrobe. It pairs well with everything from jeans to dresses, and can be dressed up or down to suit the occasion. In this article, we will delve into the various stylish ways you can incorporate a utility jacket into your casual Friday outfit.
1. Pairing With Denim Jeans
If we talk about a universal piece of clothing that goes hand in hand with the utility jacket, it has to be denim jeans. This combination screams casual comfort, yet also provides a polished look suitable for the office. Choose high-waisted jeans for a flattering fit, and pair them with a crisp white shirt. Slip into your utility jacket, and you have a perfect ensemble for a relaxed yet fashion-forward Friday.
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Try to opt for jeans in darker shades for a more professional look. A straight-leg or a slim fit will work best in an office environment. The key is to attain a balance between casual and professional, and what better way to achieve it than with a classic pair of jeans?
2. The Perfect Dress Match
Who says you can’t wear a dress on a casual Friday? With the right dress, you can achieve an elegant yet laid-back look. Go for a knee-length, flowy dress in a neutral or pastel shade. Pair it with your utility jacket for a contrast of soft femininity and edgy utility. It’s a look that’s both chic and comfortable.
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A midi dress works best with utility jackets. Keep the dress minimalistic, letting the jacket remain the statement piece. Pair the outfit with ankle boots or mules, and you have got a stylish, office-ready outfit that’s also perfect for a post-work dinner.
3. Layering It Over a Shirt
Another beautiful way to incorporate a utility jacket into your casual Friday wardrobe is to layer it over a shirt. This could be a classic white shirt, a bold-coloured shirt, or even a printed one, depending on your personal style.
When paired with a high-waisted skirt or classic trousers, this combination creates an outfit that’s balanced, stylish, and comfortable. Finish the look with a pair of loafers or court shoes, and you have an outfit that’s work-appropriate, yet perfect for a relaxed Friday vibe.
4. Pairing With Leather
One way to add a touch of edginess to your casual Friday attire is to pair your utility jacket with a piece of leather clothing. Whether it’s a leather skirt or leather pants, the combination presents a perfect blend of rugged utility and sleek leather.
Make sure to keep the rest of your outfit understated to let these two statement pieces shine. Choose a simple top and minimalistic accessories, and let your utility jacket and leather wear do the talking. A pair of heeled boots would round off this look perfectly.
5. Summer Styling
As the summer approaches in the UK, the way you style your utility jacket will also need a seasonal update. Think of pairing your jacket with a crisp linen shirt and chinos or a light, flowy summer dress.
You can also pair it with high-waisted shorts and a simple tee for a more casual look. Remember, the key to summer styling is not just about what you wear, but also about how you wear it. Keep your look relaxed and comfortable, layering your utility jacket over lighter clothes, and you’ll be ready to take on the summer heat in style.
By now, you should have a clear idea of how to style a utility jacket for Casual Fridays. It’s all about mixing and matching different pieces from your wardrobe, while ensuring you maintain a balance between comfort and style. Whether you opt for a classic jeans and jacket combo, or decide to mix it up with a dress or leather, the utility jacket is a versatile piece that can bring a chic edge to your Casual Friday attire.
6. Pairing with a Denim Jacket
One of the coolest ways to wear a utility jacket is to double up on the jacket. This means pairing your utility jacket with a denim jacket for an extra layer of warmth and style.
You may wonder how to make this combination work without looking too bulky. The trick is to go for jackets that are more tailored and slim fit. This way, they will layer up nicely without adding too much volume. The denim jacket can be worn under the utility jacket, or vice versa, depending on the weather and your preference.
For a smart-casual look perfect for Casual Friday, pair this double jacket ensemble with a pair of chinos or slim-fit trousers, and a crisp dress shirt. Finish off with a pair of loafers or clean white sneakers, depending on the dress code of your office.
This look works year-round, but it’s especially stylish during the transitional seasons when the weather can be unpredictable.
7. Styling with Skinny Jeans and a Leather Jacket
While the utility jacket is a great standalone piece, it also plays well with others. One such stylish combination is pairing your utility jacket with skinny jeans and a leather jacket.
This combination exudes a cool, edgy vibe while still maintaining a business casual look. Start with a pair of skinny jeans in a dark wash. These will provide a slimming effect and act as a neutral base for the rest of your outfit. Add a simple, fitted top – this could be a dress shirt or a chic blouse. Next, layer on your leather jacket. A slim fit, biker-style jacket works best here. Finally, top it all off with your utility jacket.
Keep your accessories minimal and let the jackets be the star of your outfit. Ankle boots or block-heeled pumps would be the perfect footwear to complete this look.
This ensemble is a testament to the wide range of styling options available with a utility jacket and is sure to make a stylish statement on your next Casual Friday.
Conclusion: Taking Style Notes from Utility Jackets
As evident from these style notes, the utility jacket is a versatile piece of clothing that deserves a place in your wardrobe. It can be paired with a wide range of clothing items, from a classic pair of denim jeans to a chic leather jacket, and can be styled to suit any dress code.
While stylists like Maxine Eggenberger of Marie Claire have consistently championed this jacket, it’s clear that each individual can put their own spin on it. Your utility jacket can reflect your personal style while also adhering to your office’s dress code.
Whether you prefer to pair it with a denim jacket for a layered look, or with skinny jeans and a leather jacket for an edgy vibe, your utility jacket can be your go-to piece for a chic and stylish Casual Friday outfit.
Always remember the freedom of movement that comes with Casual Fridays. You’re not just dressing for the office, but also for a relaxed evening out – so embrace the versatility that the utility jacket offers. The key is to find a balance between style and comfort, and a utility jacket lets you do just that.
We hope these styling tips help you navigate Casual Fridays with more style and confidence. Happy styling!
