The traditional workwear piece has become a security blanket in Harry Styles’ off-duty wardrobe, traveling with him to London, Rome and New York City. A new generation of leading men have cosigned the trend, from Jacob Elordi to Austin Butler and Jeremy Allen White. The humble garment has made its way onto the runway, with designers at Louis Vuitton, Ralph Lauren and Paul Smith offering their own interpretations. It has also become a staple of street style.

Sedgwick Cole Jr., head of Lee Global Design, is well-versed in chore coats and attributes the style’s resurgence to Millennials’ and Gen Z’s affinity for nostalgic fashion, as well as consumers’ growing interest in pieces that transcend increasingly rapid trend cycles. Chore coats and utility wear last gained popularity in the ’90s and early aughts, but Cole believes their latest comeback is built to last.

“Consumers want clothing that will last and is timeless,” he told SJ Denim. “A chore coat is a great foundation because you can wear it nearly year-round and it’s a great layering piece. You can make it reflect your own personal style. Pieces that are durable and last equal value.”

While chore coats originated in late 19th-century France as practical uniforms for farmers, factory workers and laborers, Lee helped establish the style within American workwear.

This year, the heritage denim brand is celebrating the 100 th anniversary of its lined chore coat by revisiting its history and positioning the coat as a modern wardrobe essential that works just as naturally over a tee or sweatshirt as it once did over workwear.

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