The utilitarian trend continuously bubbles up year after year, assuming a slightly altered guise each season. For Spring [1], designers from Zimmermann to Givenchy and Fendi unanimously declared purposeful pieces with polish as the 2019 update du jour with tailored boiler suits, buckled jackets, multipocketed pants, and fastened skirts as seasonal heroes. A more buttoned-up take on utility, if you will.
Since we usually reach for sensible wares for their inherent ease — particularly when we're hurriedly dressing in five minutes or less — this new-season take on utility can be a bit confusing . . . honestly, how does one style a waist-cinching trouser and cropped army jacket without looking like a (rather fashionable) army recruit? Are we supposed to be wearing cargo pants with heels? Is a boiler suit ever office appropriate?
That's where last month's street style set [2] comes in: functional-chic looks abounded on the scene, from casual-cool outfits you'd wear on the weekends to smart sets made for commanding a meeting at work. But we're not just delivering a bounty of outfit inspo to guide you through this Spring trend. We're leveling up and spotlighting eight utilitarian pieces from the POPSUGAR at Kohl's collection [3], so you can shop the must-try trend for $50 or less whether you've got your sights set on a multipurpose anorak, wear-everywhere cropped pants, or a one-and-done jumpsuit in army green.
If you weren't into utility before, we bet we got your attention now. Inspiration and affordable picks ahead.
Heeled boots in mossy green easily dress up army green chinos.
Look effortless off duty in an army-green anorak, flared jeans, and sneakers.
When going tonal, opting for slightly different shades creates more of a dimensional effect.
Styling a belt bag crossbody over a boiler suit is a fashion-forward take on functional.
Liven up fatigued shades with a pop of neon.
In lieu of a suit, re-live Princess Diana's iconic styling [4] by tucking trousers into a tall pair of boots.
Double up on utility by pairing a multi-pocked jacket with drawstring trousers in differing neutral tones.
Give army green pants a Spring-y update by teaming with Robins Egg blue.
A utility skirt feels office appropriate when nude boots or heels are at play.
A thick leather belt instantly smartens up a utilitarian jumpsuit.
Dress up a pair of cargos with a trim jacket (bonus points if it's military inspired).
Pair a snakeprint piece with army green for a neutral-but-trendy outfit.
Take cargo pants into evening with a festive pair of crystal heels.
A denim coat is a fail-safe layer over olive pants. To make the combo pop, finish with a cobalt-blue accessory.
A utility jacket is a practical downplay to patterned pants.
For a casually luxe look, tuck a leather shirt into cargo pants. Lace-up sandals are a summery finish.
Cinch a cropped jacket over a dress for work, dinner, or brunch.
To break up neutrals, a bright bag is a playful accent.
Futuristic sneakers are a so-now finish to army-inspired separates.
A utility trench and cargo pants are the epitome of weekend-chic.