What started as functional gear for builders, miners, and mechanics has turned into one of the most enduring style codes of today. Workwear continues to influence how we dress, from double-knee pants to heavy canvas shirts. Whether you’re drawn to its rugged practicality or the fashion crossover, these are 10 Workwear-Inspired Items You Need Right Now.
Shop the full collection of men’s workwear on Complex. For more style guides, check out our best knitwear and beanies collections.
Madfrenzy Work Jacket
Buy the Madfrenzy Work Jacket on Complex.
Price: $250
Madfrenzy takes the structure of a classic work jacket and makes it its own with a sprayed finish that gives it a gritty, vintage look. The beaded MF logo on the chest balances out the ruggedness with a delicate touch.
Saint Lorenzo Workwear Shirt
Buy the Saint Lorenzo Workwear Shirt on Complex.
Price: $85
Saint Lorenzo’s signature line reinterprets everyday staples through materials and subtle design tweaks. This workwear shirt is made from a durable midweight cotton twill and features detachable sleeves, adding functional versatility. The embroidered logo and name patch give it a uniform-inspired feel that nods to traditional workwear.
Morale Shadow Double Knee Cargo Pants
Buy the Morale Shadow Double Knee Cargo Pants on Complex.
Price: $158
You can’t talk about workwear without mentioning double-knee pants. Morale’s take is designed to look like it has already been worn for years. Pre-distressed rips and camo patches at the knees add some extra flair.
Timberland Premium 6-Inch Waterproof Boot
Buy the Timberland Premium 6-Inch Waterproof Boot on Complex.
Price: $198
The Timberland 6-Inch Boot is a cultural symbol. Worn by workers, rappers, and fashion heads alike, it’s as practical as it is timeless. What started as work gear became one of the most recognizable shoes in the world. If you don’t want the wheat pair that everyone else will be rocking this winter, here is a great alternative.
Chemist Creations Storage Bag
Buy the Chemist Creations Storage Bag on Complex.
Price: $75
Even if you’re not handy with tools, it doesn’t hurt to have the proper storage for them.. The Chemist Creations Storage Bag is made from heavy-duty canvas and finished with screen-printed graphics that highlight the brand’s playful design language.
Ian Charms The Cutest Keychain Ever
Buy the Ian Charms The Cutest Keychain Ever on Complex.
Price: $30
Workwear doesn’t have to mean rugged. Ian Charms injects some personality into a simple carabiner chain with handmade beads. It turns something purely functional into a whimscial expression of individuality. This is perfect for clipping onto your belt loop, tote bag, or keys.
Akomi “The Eden” Boots
Buy the Akomi “The Eden” Boots on Complex.
Price: $350
We spotlighted Akomi last month for having some of the best footwear at New York Fashion Week, thanks to its elevated take on classic hiking boots. “The Eden” is a continuation of that. It’s crafted from plush suede with a chunky sole and paracord laces that lean into utilitarian design.
Alpha Industries SS Fatigue Overshirt
Buy the Alpha Industries SS Fatigue Overshirt on Complex.
Price: $160
Alpha Industries has been outfitting everyone from pilots to pop culture icons since the ’50s. A nod to vintage military fatigue overshirts, this piece swaps the heavy layers for a lighter cotton build and short sleeves made for everyday wear. You can’t forget the four utility pockets that are functional and oversized.
Carhartt Men's Bib Overall
Buy the Carhartt Men’s Bib Overall on Carhartt.
Price: $99.99
For many, Carhartt is probably the brand that comes to mind when picturing workwear. Our favorite piece is the Bib Overall. It’s made from heavy-duty duck canvas with reinforced knees and triple-stitched seams. It’s built to last through decades of wear and countless projects. Don’t be afraid to get paint on it. That’s what makes it even better.
Ben Davis Long Sleeve Cotton 1/2 Zip Shirt
Buy the Ben Davis Long Sleeve Cotton 1/2 Zip Shirt on Ben Davis.
Price: $49
Ben Davis has been making tough workwear since 1935, so you can trust the quality. The hickory stripe pattern is a print long associated with railroad workers and carpenters, and adds an old-school charm to this durable classic.