In recent years, celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Jaden Smith, Kaia Gerber, and Brooklyn Beckham have been seen wearing workwear-inspired clothing, such as chore coats and utility jackets, as part of their luxury fashion wardrobe. Brands like Junya Watanabe, Marni x Carhartt WIP, Prada, Miu Miu, and Louis Vuitton have all released high-end versions of utilitarian garments, tapping into the trend of blending luxury with workwear aesthetics. However, there is a debate surrounding the appropriateness of wealthy individuals adopting clothing traditionally associated with laborers, especially when they come from privileged backgrounds.
The question of what the upper class’s relationship to utilitarian clothing should look like raises concerns about the perceived incongruity of wearing luxury pieces that mimic lower class aesthetics. Critics argue that such trends can fetishize working-class aesthetics and contribute to a disconnect between fashion’s desirability and accessibility. The act of wealthy individuals appropriating workwear garments also raises questions about authenticity and intention, with some suggesting that wearing such clothing can come off as a form of costume rather than genuine appreciation for the functionality and history of the garments.
Despite the ethical considerations surrounding class appropriation in fashion, it is not as straightforward as banning wealthy individuals from wearing utilitarian clothing. Some argue that the original meaning and purpose of workwear have evolved over time, allowing for a more inclusive and diverse interpretation of these garments. Additionally, the popularity of utilitarian clothing among celebrities and fashion influencers has contributed to the mainstream acceptance and commercialization of workwear aesthetics, blurring the lines between class distinctions in fashion.
The trend of blending luxury and workwear aesthetics is not new, with designer collaborations like Junya Watanabe x Carhartt and Marni x Carhartt WIP paving the way for high-end interpretations of utilitarian garments. Despite criticisms of class appropriation in fashion, the rise of workwear-inspired clothing in luxury collections reflects a broader cultural shift towards valuing functionality, durability, and everyday practicality in fashion. As the fashion industry continues to evolve and diversify, the debate around class appropriation and luxury workwear is likely to remain a topic of discussion and scrutiny within the industry and among consumers.
