The utility style is more than just a trend, says fashion expert Marc Weinreuter. It’s a statement, returning to the wardrobe in Fall/Winter 2025 and demonstrating how versatile workwear and outdoor influences are influencing modern Mey & Edlich menswear.
Inspired by the rugged clothing of bygone working-class and military days, the utility style combines functionality, durability, and a clean, minimalist aesthetic. Originally derived from the British „Utility Clothing Scheme“ of the 1940s, today it stands for high-quality layered looks that combine everyday practicality with fashionable sophistication.
Convertible Layered Looks
Field jackets, chore coats, bomber and aviator jackets, and barn jackets with corduroy collars are the star performers of the season. Elegant wool coats or blazers provide a modern style break – a skillful mix that adds interest to the look. Indispensable: overshirts with large pockets and multi-pocket vests that can be worn year-round.
Cargo meets canvas
There’s no getting around cargo pants. They look modern with their relaxed fit and casually rolled-up legs. Alternatively, work pants made of sturdy canvas add a touch of artisanal charm. Natural tones like beige, brown, and olive dominate, which can be effortlessly combined with sporty, classic, or elegant styles.
A suit with a difference. Its striking texture clearly indicates an Anglophile style. In the UK, we’d say crispy. Thanks to the special processing, the cotton displays a subtle pattern that is reflected in the jacket’s lining. Craftsmanship details like the buttoned collar tab seem like they’ve come from Savile Row, London’s hotspot for tailored suits. The combination with cargo trousers is new – reminiscent of the origins of industrialization. Equally surprising is the completion with a waistcoat made of the same fabric. It forgoes traditional buttons in favor of a zipper. The bottom line is that these individual pieces create a suit with British DNA and urban innovation.
