Chore jackets. Heard of them? If not, prepare to become well acquainted. You'll have definitely spotted this favoured layering item donned by stylish folk roaming about town, including the most stylish of men, Harry Styles (skip to matching couple looks in Rome with Zoe Kravits, and recent Grammys appearance as more evidence for this statement).
Equally suited for an evening in a pub garden as much as they are tending to one (you wouldn't be out of place in an allotment wearing a chore jacket), they've become a solid transeasonal staple, like a pair of blue jeans; they're a reliable piece that would slot into just about everybody's wardrobe. The design's utilitarian origins began in 19th-century France, made from heavy-duty twill and worn by French factory workers; its cool, practical appeal and wearability have transformed the once workwear uniform into an outerwear option beloved by modern-day guys and girls.
And just like a classic pair of jeans, a true chore jacket is blue (da be dee da ba die). Any other colour would be a fashion reworking and well... sacré bleu. Lucky then that Next has delivered with this workwear-inspired chore jacket in the most gorgeous shade of cobalt blue. The boxy shape is exactly the silhouette we're looking for in a chore jacket, and we love the little button details at the back for added ventilation when layering. The large, deep patch pockets are perfect for storing all your 'tools' (i.e. lip liners, hair bands, spare pens, a journal, you know, the worker's essentials).
The popularity of this jacket style has seen designers from modern workwear brand LF Markey to luxe labels like The Row and Prada create their own versions, as well as SS Daley, where Harry nabbed his. Whilst French mechanics might be tutting at the fashion takeover, what marks a timeless chore jacket is its durable, quality makeup. Next's jacket is made from 100% cotton, and is fully lined, which makes its affordable price stand out compared to others on the market.
Invest in this classic jacket now, layered beneath coats or worn over a chunky knit, and as we slide into spring's brighter days, you'll find this vibrant blue 'chore' has earned its worthy place in your jacket rotation.
Sophie Leen is the Bookings Editor for Cosmopolitan UK and Women's Health UK. She specialises in creating fashion and shopping content across both digital and print platforms, as well as producing all of our fashion editorial photoshoots, which have included our digital cover with Olly Alexander and our curve influencer’s letter to the high street story. Sophie also looks after our Try Before You Train franchise where our team have tested and reviewed over 100 gymwear items.
