Hooks the Look

Slow Fashion September: The Utility Jacket

Everyone else might be might singing praises about shackets (which are cool too) but I’m all in on utility jackets for Fall. Or any time of the year for that matter. 🎶 winter, spring, summer, or fall … all you have to do is call 🎶

And being that several of my utility jackets have been thrift store finds, it seemed like showcasing this versatile workhorse would be a great tie-in for Slow Fashion September. If you’re unfamiliar with that reference, let me point you to this article that provides the background as to how the challenge to buy only second-hand items for 30 days in the month of September first started.

The modern use of the phrase “slow fashion” is credited to journalist Kate Fletcher and her use of it in an article that was published in The Ecologist in 2007. In her critique of fast fashion, the author says that it “isn’t really about speed, but greed: selling more, making more money. Time is just one factor of production, along with labour, capital, and natural resources that get juggled and squeezed in the pursuit of maximum profits. But fast is not free. Short lead times and cheap clothes are only made possible by the exploitation of labour and natural resources.” Ms Fletcher further clarifies that “slow is not the opposite of fast – there is no dualism – but a different approach in which designers, buyers, retailers, and consumers are more aware of the impacts of products on workers, communities, and ecosystems.”

Among the easiest of ways to embrace “slow fashion” is by buying second-hand. What’s the easiest you ask? That would be wearing/restyling/reimagining the clothes you already own. That being said, most of us enjoy shopping and the thrill of wearing something “new-to-me”. Each of the key pieces in the outfit I’m wearing in the photos above was bought second-hand. None are designer or vintage but I have nonetheless delayed their demise in a landfill somewhere by picking up where their original purchaser left off and wearing them anew.

My utility jacket and denim shirt are Target brands that I often buy retail myself. I think that my jeans are from Walmart but there’s no brand label so I’m not 100% on that. Those three items are my thrift store scores. Originally, I bought the jacket to sell via Poshmark but I’m a sucker for embroidered details like the flowers on the sleeves so I’m keeping it for now. My boots are by Rocket Dog and I bought them two years on Poshmark (seen previously in Less Of This, More Of That and on the ‘gram here and here).

If anyone should question my fondness for utility jackets, I’ve got the receipts. And in a variety of colors. While not all of them were purchased second-hand, I still have all of the jackets shown above. One, in particular, predates my decision to #ditchthedye and embrace my natural hair color which was in early 2017. Typically lightweight, this jacket style is easy to layer, and the ones with a hidden drawstring allow you to “shape” them and make them less boxy than a denim jacket. And they usually have lots of pockets! Hopefully, the collection above of some previous looks proves my point about how versatile they are.

Let’s Wrap This Up

Now, onto the Fine-Whatever link-up. My featured participant from last week’s link-up is Rosemary, who shares her thoughts about fashion, travel, family, and the southern lifestyle in Florida on her blog Distinctly Southern Style. Dressing for Fall can be a challenge for those in warmer climates but Rosemary has it figured out by using darker-toned floral prints.


What are your thoughts on utility jackets? I think like to think of them as a cross between a blazer and a shacket (which is already a cross between a shirt and a jacket 😂). They offer some of the structure of a blazer with the looser fit of a shacket. It’s a win-win if you ask me. Another positive is that they are a more unique piece so you don’t look like everyone else. All I’m saying is that if you should find a utility jacket while second-hand shopping this month (or any time really), you might want to consider giving it a try.

Stay well and let’s keep in touch! Subscribe, tweet, follow, friend, pin … all options are available. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

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Note: This is an unsponsored post; however, some or all of the links to clothing items are associated with an affiliate program where I earned a few cents for each click.

Photo credit: MMPerez

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25 Comments

  1. Wendy

    Hi Rena!!

    I’m not a fan of shackets, but I have to give utility jackets a try. Because they say one word to me: pockets!!

    I LOVE anything with pockets. And I love your hair both dark and natural. I’m sure your hair is the envy of everyone you meet!

    Wendy

  2. Terri Gardner

    Hello, I have always liked the look of the utility jacket but never have had one. Also, didn’t know anything about “Slow Fashion September.” That reminds me of the days when I have that linkup on the first Friday of the month, “Slow Fashion Walk.” Enjoyed this post.

  4. Michele Morin

    I am Definitely in the market for a utility Jacket. Just gotta get out there and do the shopping. You inspire me!

  5. thisblondesshoppingbag

    In the last year I started following a few YouTubers who promote slow fashion – it was a concept I was not aware of prior to that. I am taking baby steps!
    xo,
    Kellyann

  6. marsha57

    I love utility jackets! I don’t have quite as many as you, but I agree 100% with you! They are as versatile as a denim jacket and even a little dressier maybe? I am not a thrifter, but I keep my clothes for years so I think that may be quasi-slow fashion? My biggest problem is what to do with the clothes I no longer want, fit in, or like…I don’t have much luck on Poshmark. Thanks for the link party!

    https://marshainthemiddle.com/

  7. Elaine @ Following Augustine

    I decided to take Second Hand September or Slow Fashion September one step further this year and in addition to only buying second-hand, I’m wearing only second-hand clothes for the entire month (with the exception of socks, underwear, and pyjamas which I always buy new). I’ve been sharing some of the outfits I’ve worn on my blog each Friday. Though my second-hand utility jacket hasn’t shown up there yet, it’s definitely a favourite of mine and I’ve been wearing it often as the weather has cooled off recently.

  9. Mica Away From The Blue

    You look lovely in these jackets I can see why you have quite a collection of them! They look like a nice light layer. I’ve failed second hand September, I did buy a couple things second hand but also splurged on some new things. I hadn’t bought anything fashion related since march though so I’m counting that as a win!

    Thanks for the link up. Hope you are having a lovely day 🙂

  10. Amy Johnson

    It seems as if utility jackets have been around for a long time and aren’t going anywhere. I love yours! Your whole outfit is cute. Thanks for the party.

  11. The Grey Brunette

    Not only are you the thrift store queen, Rena, but you’re also the utility jacket queen! I love all yours, they’re gorgeous. I have two and I only ever wear them to walk the dog or go grocery shopping lol. I really should try and find some cooler ones (but only in thrift stores, of course!).
    Hugs
    Suzy xx

  12. mireilleftm

    I love utility jackets! I need to keep my eyes out thrifting for an olive one because I am not super fond of mine and have several that I might want to donate but until then I will keep them. For some reason I love all lightweight jackets and am always adding some to my closet. This one is fun with the details on the back!
    http://www.chezmireillefashiontravelmom.com

  13. Michelle - mybijoulife

    As of late I’m all about slow fashion, particularly buying second hand. I haven’t done any retail shopping all summer, except for a couple of belts. As for utility jackets, I don’t own a single one, but you have now put them on my radar. I appreciate this post! And the embroidery? So very awesome! And it’s an awesome outfit, Rena!

    Michelle
    https://mybijoulifeonline.com

  14. shelbeeontheedge1

    Rena, you wear this utility style jacket so well! I love the embroidered details on this olive green one. I have 3 utility jackets, one camo and two olive green, and I rarely ever wear them. I think they just don’t really vibe with my aesthetic these days so I may likely pass mine on to my local consignment shop (once I get around to my jacket and coat clean out). Of course, you already know of my fondness for thrift shopping and the idea of slow fashion September. Great post, my friend!

    Shelbee

  15. Sally in St Paul

    I LOVE a classic utility jacket of the style you are showing today! Oddly, I don’t currently own one, though. I’m swooning for your amazing collection. I appreciate seeing your jeans/boot styling today – I’m still wrapping my head around styling wide legs, and I like how this one looks! The utility jacket is a fab item for this silhouette as it’s somehow both loose and structured (if that makes sense!).

  16. Nancy

    We don’t see utility jackets here that often! They do look cool on you.

  18. eyeloveknots

    Love your boots! I am all for jackets any day of the year even though I live in Florida. Every place has the AC on, and I get cold so easy.

    Popping over to check out Distinctly Southern Style. It’s true, we struggle here when the seasons change everywhere else. There is not much difference between Summer and Fall here, though it does get a tiny bit cooler and less humid, but we want to dress and celebrate like everyone else – I know I do. I love all the Fall colors, prints and styles. Dark florals and warm colors is a great way to get a little of that Fall feeling.

    Alexandra
    OnRockwoodLane.com
    EyeLoveKnots.com

  19. laurabambrick

    I do love any type of layer-but that is because I’m often cold. You have a lovely collection of utility jackets that you clearly use often! I like to buy secondhand often as well and try to for my kids. So many times children outgrow items before they are worn and you can get many good deals!

  21. Gail Is This Mutton

    Agree with Wendy – the pockets make utility jackets look interesting! I honestly don’t think I’ve ever had one, but I love the variety of your looks. Have a good rest of the week.

  22. mummabstylish

    I have a shacket and quite like the style. I have lots of different jackets, but my favourite is a long line blazer. Jacqui x

  24. Carol Benton

    Utility jackets are . . . well . . . utilitarian. I love the pockets, and the practicality of utility jackets. They’re also a great third piece for casual outfits.
    Thank you for participating in Talent-Sharing Tuesdays Link-Up 34.
    Carol
    http://www.scribblingboomer.com