When it comes to everyday outerwear, the worker jacket stands out as an ideal choice. Originally designed for French railroad workers and engineers in the 1800s, this functional garment quickly captured the attention of fashion enthusiasts. While laborers appreciated its durability and practicality, the fashion crowd was drawn to its stylish simplicity and versatility.
We wholeheartedly agree with both groups. Worker jackets are not only visually appealing and adaptable but are also known for their remarkable longevity, improving with age. They are a rare gem that can be worn throughout the year—serving as a lightweight option during summer and spring and an excellent layering piece in autumn and winter.
Don’t have one yet? It’s time to consider adding one to your wardrobe. Be it a classic French worker jacket or an American chore jacket, this guide aims to provide insights into this timeless design and offer tips for selecting the perfect piece for you. From fit and fabric to the best brands to explore, here’s everything you need to know about this iconic workwear staple.
What Is A Worker Jacket?
Vetra
The name gives it away; worker jackets are designed to withstand the rigors of manual labor. Characterized by a simple button front, classic collar, and multiple front patch pockets, these jackets are usually made from heavy cotton materials, such as duck canvas or drill, and occasionally moleskin.
These jackets emerged in 19th-century France, tailored specifically for railroad workers who required a loose, durable garment. The signature blue dye differentiated them from their superiors, who typically wore white or grey. In France, this type of workwear is known as ‘bleu de travail’ or ‘working blues,’ and several of the pioneering brands that produced these jackets continue to thrive today.
American influence soon followed suit. Carhartt, a Michigan-based brand, introduced its iconic chore coat in 1927, a reinforced version of the French design featuring riveted pockets, a robust canvas exterior, and a roomy fit.
When Should I Wear A Worker Jacket?
Buck Mason
The beauty of a worker jacket lies in its versatility. This item can be worn year-round, adjusted for various dress codes, and combined effortlessly with nearly anything. For a polished smart-casual look, pair it with a shirt or roll neck, tailored trousers, and boots. Alternatively, keep it casual with sneakers and a T-shirt.
However, it’s best to avoid worker jackets in particularly formal settings or special occasions. While they can be dressed up with sophisticated pieces, they remain fundamentally workwear. If you’re unsure, consider opting for an unstructured blazer instead.
Worker Jacket Buying Considerations
Fit
Stan Ray
Fit is a crucial factor to consider when selecting a worker jacket. Traditionally, these jackets are tailored with ample room in the body and arms for freedom of movement; however, slimmer silhouettes are also available for a more refined appearance. Ideally, the shoulder seams should align with your shoulders, and the hem should fall a couple of inches below the hips.
If you prefer a classic worker jacket, consider enlisting a local tailor for adjustments to enhance its fit.
Fabric
Form & Thread
Worker jackets are available in various materials, with heavy cotton twill, drill, and moleskin being the most common options. Each fabric has its advantages, so it’s wise to consider your local climate when making your choice. Twill is lighter and suitable for warmer conditions, while drill and moleskin are better suited to chillier weather.
The Best Worker Jacket Brands
Asket
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- Asket The Overshirt
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- Asket The Wool Overshirt
Swedish brand Asket is a standout favorite at Ape HQ. Their collection is small yet thoughtfully curated, prioritizing quality, versatility, and timeless design. The philosophy focuses on doing more with less, encouraging sustainable consumption while promoting refined style.
Their overshirt was the first piece that caught our attention and remains one of the finest twill worker jackets available today.
Wax London
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- Wax London Landmark – Sand Corduroy Chore Jacket
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- Wax London Landmark – Navy Corduroy Chore Jacket
Founded in 2015, Wax London has quickly made a name for itself as one of the UK’s most exciting contemporary menswear labels, with the worker jacket at the heart of its offerings. The Caine Jacket, their best-selling piece, is a boxy, unlined chore coat inspired by traditional French workwear, updated with modern details, seasonal fabrics, and fresh colors.
Each season introduces new fabric variations—ranging from organic cotton twills to robust corduroy and recycled wool—perfect for year-round wear. With its versatility and affordability, it serves as an excellent introduction to Wax London’s fresh take on everyday menswear.
Percival
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- Percival Afterward Suede Chore Jacket
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- Percival Gove Chore Jacket
Known for blending classic designs with modern flair, London-based Percival excels in creating stylish staples. Their signature overshirt, which updates the traditional worker jacket with added sleeve buttons, a contemporary cut, and diverse color options, stands out as a stylish choice.
ISTO
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- ISTO Work Jackets
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- ISTO Work Jackets
Based in Portugal, ISTO emphasizes quality over quantity, providing simple, well-crafted essentials made ethically and transparently priced. Their Work Jacket features a minimal two-pocket design and is available in various muted tones, ensuring versatility.
Form & Thread
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- Form & Thread Mechanic Overshirt
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- Form & Thread Gallery Jacket
Form & Thread offers a wide variety of worker jackets, showcasing styles ranging from the chic Mechanic Overshirt to the open-collar Gallery Jacket. All items are produced ethically, utilizing the finest materials to ensure durability.
Le Laboureur
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- Le Laboureur Cotton Work Jacket
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- Le Laboureur Moleskin Work Jacket
Established in Burgundy in 1956, Le Laboureur is renowned for its traditional French worker jackets. Crafted from sturdy cotton drill fabric, the three-pocket jackets are available in various bold colors, including the classic blue.
For a textured option, consider their moleskin variation.
Carhartt
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- Carhartt WIP Michigan Coat
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- Carhartt WIP OG Chore Coat
Carhartt’s chore coat is an American classic. Made from durable duck canvas and featuring four front patch pockets, this timeless piece serves as the US counterpart to the French bleu de travail, incorporating added features like rivets and metal buttons. The US brand offers various styles, some complete with quilted linings for extra warmth during colder seasons.
Vetra
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- Vetra Workwear Jacket in twill fabric 1G/4
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- Vetra Workwear chore jacket in washed moleskin 3M/5
Vetra, a historic French workwear label, has been crafting its distinctive blue overshirts since 1927, with minimal changes to their design over the years. They offer additional colors, multiple fits, and various styles inspired by the classic worker jacket.
Stan Ray
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- Stan Ray Coverall Jacket
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- Stan Ray Coverall Jacket
Founded in Texas in 1972, Stan Ray is known for crafting durable attire tailored for hardworking individuals. Recently, the brand has attracted a trend-focused audience seeking practical yet stylish clothing.
In addition to other essentials like painter pants and dungarees, worker jackets are among Stan Ray’s best offerings. Expect a diverse array of materials, vibrant colors, and relaxed, boxy silhouettes.
Drake’s
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- Drake’s Rust Heavyweight Suede Five-Pocket Chore Jacket
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- Drake’s French Blue Heavy Twill Cotton Five-Pocket Chore Jacket
For upscale, preppy casual wear, few brands rival Drake’s. Once a London haberdasher specializing in ties, Drake’s has transformed into a full-fledged clothing brand, with their overshirts standing out as a premium offering.
If you’re seeking a luxury option, this is the way to go.
Universal Works
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- Universal Works Bakers Jacket
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- Universal Works Brushed Polytech Merchant Jacket
Originating from Nottingham, Universal Works has established itself as one of Britain’s premier workwear-inspired brands. They combine utilitarian designs with contemporary cuts, crafting clothing that is both relaxed and functional.
Their chore jackets stand out for being made from cotton twill, canvas, or Japanese indigo, cut in boxy shapes that echo tradition without feeling dated. These jackets can effortlessly transition from casual to smart-casual outfits, making them indispensable everyday wear.
Alex Mill
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- Alex Mill Garment Dyed Work Jacket
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- Alex Mill Garment Dyed Work Jacket
Founded in New York, Alex Mill focuses on creating timeless pieces that are well-constructed and easy to wear. Their worker jackets encapsulate this ethos perfectly, featuring straightforward, garment-dyed styles that feel comfortably worn from the moment you put them on.
Expect durable cotton twills available in versatile shades—navy, khaki, and stone—designed to age beautifully. These jackets are user-friendly, practical, and fairly priced, making them a fantastic entry point into the world of American chore coats.
