How Rain Coats & Construction Jackets Became Fashionable

We’ve all heard the phrase “function over fashion,” but it's starting to seem like function equals fashion. Over the last couple of years, we’ve seen a rise in techwear and workwear inspired outfits.

Now, it feels like clothes that were designed for hikers and construction workers have become a staple piece in everyone's wardrobe.

(Image via Grailed)

Workwear

Workwear has its origins in equipment and clothing meant for workers doing manual labor. Key aspects of workwear are things like workwear jackets, carpenter pants, denim, thick flannel, and anything else you could imagine a lumberjack or construction worker wearing.

In 2019, the American brand Carhartt collaborated with the MLB and 47 Brand to release baseball caps and beanies for every MLB team. In 2021, Dickies released a collaboration collection with streetwear juggernaut Supreme.

The durable and warm nature of this clothing style makes it stylish and functional for the colder times of the year.

Although its origins are in blue-collar work, you’ll see just about anyone wearing workwear-inspired outfits.

With massive brands such as Yeezy having taken influence by adding things like workshirts, jumpsuits, and construction boots to its collections, it's safe to say workwear is here to stay.

Gorpcore

One of the more odd yet hilarious TikTok trends of 2021 was centered around the outdoors and climbing brand Arc’teryx. People were buying $600 rain jackets and wearing them in the shower while "Arc'teryx" by YT played in the background to flex how water resistant it is.

Although not everyone is willing to drop that kind of cash on a raincoat, starting in 2021, we began to see a rise in this hiker and techwear inspired fashion style that many have dubbed gorpcore.

Foundational pieces of gorpcore are hiking boots, rain jackets, fleece jackets, puffer jackets, and ski masks.

Arc’teryx, Patagonia, Nike ACG, and North Face are brands that incorporate these accessories, and all have origins in outdoor wear, making them great choices for anyone trying to get a fit pic while out hiking.

We’ve seen the likes of Frank Ocean and Drake incorporate aspects of gorpcore into some of their outfits, but no one pulls it off like the rapper Aminé. Growing up in Portland, you can see how the wet and cloudy northwest climate has impacted his style.

@amine on Instagram

Popularity

It’s not the first time we've seen clothing not intended to be fashionable become fashionable. Denim was created to be durable workwear, but it wasn't until the 1960’s that it became a fundamental part of everyone's wardrobe.

Many key pieces of workwear and gorpcore are trendy, but I think its true appeal lies in its practicality. Sure, those Carhartt jackets look cool, but it's also cool that their heavy-duty construction will ensure it keeps me warm for a long time.

When it comes to gorpcore, its heavy use of pockets, jackets, and weather-resistant materials make it a practical and versatile piece for your wardrobe throughout the whole year.