The Affordable Trend That's Basically Become a Wardrobe Staple

When you work in fashion, you tend to get trend exhaustion from watching so many new styles emerge for one season only to burn out quickly and all but disappear, which is why it's always a much-welcomed reprieve to see a trend emerge and then continue to be relevant season after season until it eventually just becomes a wardrobe staple—well, an updated staple at that. The utility trend is one of these modern wardrobe staples that have basically become trend-proof because of how pervasive they are and, not to mention, elevated and easy to wear. So as we do with many of the most wearable trends of the moment, we took it upon ourselves to make our own versions for our Who What Wear line.

As I said, I've seen utility-style pieces continue to bubble over several years, which tells me this trend is here to stay. Informed by the runways, confirmed by editors like yours truly, and spotted on the fashion set over and over, you can be sure that our affordable versions (I'm talking $40 and under) will be solid additions to your wardrobe. To prove it, discover the pants, dresses, skirts, and tops we've designed to align with the utility trend and get inspired by how fashion people wear it just below.

Tackle two trends when you go with a belted silhouette in a neutral hue.

Our very own managing editor Kristen took the dress for a spin.

For an elevated approach, try tucking utility-style trousers into knee boots.

A crisp white shirt will always have a place in the closets of fashion girls.

Look out for chic belted silhouettes and utilitarian pockets.

Try deconstructed shirting to freshen up any of your jeans and pants.

What a difference a tie-waist detail can make.

Never underestimate the power of a wrap skirt to add some structure to the look.

So many great outfits start with a crisp poplin shirt.

Go full monochrome when you pair our utility pants with the matching button-down tank.

There's nothing easier—or chicer—than a belted utility-inspired dress to wear with boots, heels, and sandals alike.

Utility pants are the new jeans. You heard it here first.

Next up, the chill summer trend I legit plan on wearing with everything.