25 Feb 2019

How to Wear SS19’s Utility Trend

This season, fashion is meeting function. Utilitarian pieces, khaki colours and earthy neutrals are combining with clean shapes to create low-key looks with steadfast style appeal, with the trend filtering from the runways and straight into our new-season wardrobes. From the boiler suit to the midi dress, here’s how to wear SS19’s utility trend, featuring exclusive street style snaps with fashion blogger Mary Forester.

On the Runway

From left: Fendi, Dries Van Noten and Fendi

The utilitarian aesthetic featured on the SS19 runways, with the likes of Fendi coining the term ‘urban jungle’ to define their ready-to-wear collection. Belted khaki dresses and softly-structured separates made up some of the key pieces of the show, while Dries Van Noten spun the trend on its head with asymmetric shapes and a modern take on the cargo trouser in classic navy.

1. The Utility Dress

Marking low on effort and high on impact, the utility dress is the SS19 essential that your wardrobe has been waiting for. Perfect for easy-going days, this effortless midi is detailed with patch pockets and a tie-up sash on the waist, evoking a relaxed, carefree mood. Wear yours unbuttoned from the collar and finish the look off with white lace-up trainers.

2. The Boiler Suit

Behold, the boiler suit. Providing a fresh, modern way to embrace off-duty styling, this all-in-one comes in cool khaki with a button-through design and is finished with a flattering tapered fit – we like how you can roll up the ankles to suit your height. When it comes to the accessories, a pair of easy white trainers are a must with this utilitarian design, while a soft tan bucket bag lends it a fashion-forward edge.

3. The Utility Skirt

This season, utilitarian influences are mixing with safari styling to create the midi skirt that we can’t get off our mind. Coloured in a natural earthy hue, this linen-blend design is elevated with a rectangular resin buckle at the waist and matching buttons that feel new and directional. For warm spring days, wear it with a khaki shirt and polished black accessories – think a structured tote bag and backless loafers.

The Utility Shirt

Enter the easiest piece of your new-season wardrobe. Whether worn with denim or tucked into a midi skirt, this khaki shirt offers a myriad of styling options in your off-duty line-up. No matter what you choose to style it with, layered gold jewellery is the coolest way to complement its khaki colour palette.