Utilitarian
Definition: Clothing that primarily serves a functional purpose, such as providing warmth, protection, or some practical use. The majority of work clothes that one associates to a particular profession are utilitarian, but such garments are sometimes adopted into mainstream fashion. Denim jeans were originally hard-wearing work trousers developed for Californian gold miners. Contemporary designers have appropriated utilitarian values and styles as can be seen through various interpretations of the cargo pant: a loose-fitting trouser with several deep pockets and a hammer loop, traditionally worn by skilled manual workers such as carpenters. The emphasis in such a garment is on practicality rather than style although, through appropriation, it often becomes a style.
Tapeet Moto Boots |
Credit: The Visual Dictionary of Fashion Design, Ambrose & Harris
Hehe, as soon as I hear the word utilitarian I think "utilitarian theory of punishment in our legal system, etc." Law school brain!
ReplyDeleteLove this post, though. One of my faves :)
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I need more utilitarian clothing in my closet outside of the yoga type. I hadn't thought of the application of this word to half my wardrobe but it fits!
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