My Favorite Chore Coats

It’s no secret that I love a good chore coat. I have quite a few and love styling them up in different ways in the fall and winter. They’re even great to use as a light throw over on a cool summer evening!

A little background on chore coats…

Most people don’t know the history of the chore coat. It originated in France in the late nineteenth century as a durable piece of outerwear worn by farmers and railroad workers. The oversized shape made it easy to layer over other items, and since the coats had large pockets, they were great for keeping any needed items close. Once it made its way to the US, it was called the “chore coat” because it was mostly used by people who were doing chores. 

Everlane chore jacket

Today, chore coats have easily become a wardrobe staple due to their versatility and functionality - they can complement such a variety of looks! I can definitely say that they’ve become a staple of mine!

How to wear a chore jacket

I love styling these coats with skirts, dresses, in monochromatic and color-blocking looks, and one of my favs - a good t-shirt and jeans. You can also wear one as a top - just button it up and pair it with a great pair of trousers! You can also pair it with a matching pair of trousers for a “suit vibe” - it’s a great workwear suit option for someone who wants to do a semi-professional/casual look at the office.

Dresses

Try pairing your coat with a dress (I suggest a printed one) and sneakers, and add a cute accessory like a hat.

Skirts

Style your jacket with a longer skirt - it’s such an unexpected but amazing look! I tucked in my top and added a belt to define my waist and break up the length.

Jeans

When in doubt, pair your chore coat with a pair of jeans and an easy blouse. It has such a french/street style feel when you do.

Color Block

This look is a little more muted (you could definitely go for more extreme colors) but it still plays on color blocking. I chose to pair this rust-colored coat with a dark pattern two piece - it really makes the whole look pop!

**I also have this great video of styling ideas for chore jackets

Where to buy chore coats

Some of the best places to find authentic vintage chore coats are thrift and vintage shops, flea markets, and places like Etsy. I came across the most beautiful vintage french chore coat at the Alameda Antique Fair in San Francisco! Unfortunately, it was more than I wanted to spend but I came across another booth that had a TON of vintage chore coats for a great price. And naturally, I went home with one (check it out in my video below!).

If you are looking for a more modern version I really recommend Everlane and Sézane. Both brands always have a great variety and feature new colors each season.

Everlane chore coat and Arc pants in Bleu de Travail

Sézane Will Jacket in Khaki with a mostly thrifted outfit

@esparanzavintage

the pocket detail on this vintage denim chore coat is a dream!

@fspoutdoors

Patchwork AND a chore coat. This is what dreams are made of.

@theheygang

The Hey Gang makes the best structured silhouettes- i adore everything they put out. Love this chore coat paired with overalls.

@leila.makes

A beautiful two-tone chore coat paired with rust & green

@themtalons

Chore coats make a great statement piece and this one is custom hand painted!

@girlthrifted

Chore coats & dresses will never get old!

@maysonclothing

The simplicity of this cream chore coat is perfection.

@Every___body

A monochrome chore coat look is the modern day suit.

@raleighworkshop

stripes on stripes on stripes

@vic_tsao

jeans, boots, and a chore coat - definitely a classic go-to!

@daytime.people

Monochrome, but add some pattern mixing!

@vacilandostudios

Denim + Denim = the perfect pair

@hannahruthzander

This neutral plaid chore coat from tradlands is so good!

@oursouthwestnest

linen chore coats are perfectly soft and structured all at the same time.

@_madmakes

This corduroy texture with the flower embellishments is *chefs kiss*

@LFmarkey

quilting on chore coats to make them unique may be my new favorite style of patch working.

@glor_coats

mixed fabric chore coat paired perfectly with the matching bucket hat.

@fairyontheprairie

Wearing a chore coat buttoned up as the main shirt is a great way to switch it up.

@carosomerset

An oversized chore coat with oversized pants, totally working!

@allimarye

Letting the fur chore coat take the floor.

@graziano_and_guitierrez

A 70’s stripe with a 40’s style chore coat - an ode to all things vintage

@laraehandmade

keeping a statement piece simple with denim and a white tee.

@semi.joan

comfy, casual, structured.

@stick.ball

denim on white denim contrast with a half buttoned up chore coat look

@charissa_in_real_life

Pop of red paired with a graphic tee, 100% a go-to look when it comes to chore coats.

@psychic.outlaw

a perfect summer chore coat made with lightweight fabric and contrasting green sleeves!

@mama_thrifted

Pairing a chore coat with a beanie just makes sense.

@sunsetmoths

Hand painted chore coat paired with wide leg pink trouser

@foldingmylaundry

Baseball cap + dress + chore coat

@pestozesto

proving that shorts and chore coats absolutely belong together!

Invest in a chore coat

A chore coat is SUCH a great, easy piece to have in your wardrobe - I highly recommend getting one, and places like Everlane and Sézane make them really affordable. Of course, even the authentic ones are incredible and totally worth investing in if you can. I hope my styling tips give you some fun, easy ways to style a chore coat with your fall pieces!