Happy almost end of March, friends! Matt and I just got back from a quick little trip up to San Francisco. I actually haven’t done much traveling this year other than my girls trip up to Sonoma, so this was the perfect little getaway.
Spring is finally here and I hope that I’ve been able to successfully set you up for the new season with this trend series. This is the fourth and final post featuring a little bit of a throwback to the early 2000s with none other but the utility trend.
In today’s post I’m sharing all of my outfit details, what makes something “utility”, and rounding up a ton of pieces that’ll give you just the right amount of military edge.
Camo Skirt – Blank Denim (shop all Blank Denim) | Black Silk Shirt – Equipment (shop all Equipment) | White Sneakers – Veja (shop more from Veja) | Bag – Madewell | Bracelets – Natalie B Jewelry
I really wanted to lean in to and have fun with the utility trend. And what better way to do that with the classic camo print? Forget those weird, boxy camo print shirts; this mini skirt has a subtle A-line shape with a frayed hem that totally modernizes the print. (And it’s under $100!)
Size note: I am wearing a 27 here and am usually a 26. I always order a size up in shorts and skirts simply because I don’t like either with a tight waistband. If you’re like me, size up. Otherwise, take your regular size. As for length, this was perfect on me. I’m 5’4” for reference.
To offset the fatigue feel of the skirt, I went with this black silk button up shirt. I think it adds a nice contrast, but I also love the black with the earth shades. I couldn’t find the exact blouse, but here’s a similar one by the same brand, just with front pockets.
You know that I’m typically pretty minimal when it comes to dressing, so I stuck with the basics here with my accessories. A pair of crisp white leather sneakers keeps this outfit looking fresh, and my black cross body bag fits just the essentials for zero bulk.
How to Spot the Utility Trend
Camo print and army green are pretty obvious indicators here in terms of the utility trend. But I also love khaki, particularly when worn with one or the other.
Pockets – Look for patch pockets, or pockets that are sewn in above the material. If you’re not sure what I’m referring to, check out the pockets on these wide leg jeans, or on this shirt. Some patch pockets will be the pocket only, while others have a flap (as see on this shirt.)
Fabric – Cotton blends that create that sort of crosshatch pattern, twill, or fabrics that feel durable always work here. They are crisp enough to hold shape, but airy enough for warmer spring temperatures. You also can’t go wrong with the classic, truly utility fabric: denim. Don’t be confined into thinking the utility trend is only about army green; it encompasses general “work wear” inspired looks.
Accessories and Details – Lapels, tab closures (like on the sleeves here), and metal ring detailing all add an industrial vibe. So even if you’re not getting something in a green, khaki, or navy shade, you can still rock the utility trend regardless of color.
However, I’m still gunning for neutrals since I love them, so here are my favorite utility pieces:
SHOP THE TREND
