In a world of fast-changing fashion trends, the chore jacket remains a timeless menswear staple. Originally worn by French and American labourers in the early 20th century, this practical piece has been reimagined for the modern man — blending utility, versatility, and style in one neat package.
Whether you’re heading to work, grabbing coffee, or layering up for a weekend away, the chore jacket offers the perfect balance of smart and casual. With its boxy cut, patch pockets and hardwearing fabrics, it’s the ideal transitional layer — smart enough to elevate an outfit, but relaxed enough for everyday wear.
Here’s our definitive guide to the best men’s chore jackets in the UK in 2025, covering heritage labels, independent brands and modern favourites.
What Is a Chore Jacket?
A chore jacket (sometimes called a work jacket) is a straight-cut, midweight outer layer, typically featuring a button front and three to four patch pockets. Designed for function, it’s usually made from durable fabrics like cotton twill, canvas, denim or corduroy.
It’s one of the most versatile pieces in any wardrobe — easy to dress up or down, ideal for layering, and timeless in design.
1. Carhartt WIP Michigan Chore Coat – Best for Street Style
Price: £190
Why we rate it: Rugged build meets urban cool
The Michigan Chore Coat from Carhartt WIP brings authentic workwear heritage with a streetwear edge. Made from tough cotton canvas and often featuring blanket lining for warmth, it has a structured silhouette and subtle branding that keep it stylish and wearable.
Great over a hoodie, sweatshirt, or plain tee, it’s a go-to for laid-back layering with edge.
Best for: Everyday wear, street style, durable layering
Available from: Carhartt WIP, END., Urban Industry
2. Universal Works Bakers Jacket – Best British Workwear-Inspired Style
Price: £170
Why we rate it: Contemporary British design with workwear roots
Universal Works has built its reputation on refined workwear, and the Bakers Jacket is its signature. Inspired by classic chore coats, it comes in a range of seasonal fabrics — from washed twill and denim to wool blends — all made with care.
It’s slightly more tailored than a traditional chore jacket, making it perfect for dressing up with chinos or wide-leg trousers.
Best for: Smart-casual outfits, workwear fans, UK-made style
Available from: Universal Works (online and in-store)
3. Le Mont Saint Michel Authentic French Work Jacket – Best Heritage Option
Price: £195
Why we rate it: True to the original 100-year-old design
Few brands can claim to have helped invent the chore jacket, but Le Mont Saint Michel has real heritage. Their iconic moleskin French work jacket is still made in the same style worn by factory and farm workers a century ago — hardwearing, minimal and undeniably stylish.
Deep indigo, bottle green or charcoal grey versions are especially easy to pair with denim or wool trousers for that effortlessly put-together look.
Best for: Classic menswear lovers, heritage enthusiasts
Available from: Le Mont Saint Michel (online), Toast, Jeanstore
4. Arket Heavy Twill Overshirt – Best Budget Buy
Price: £89
Why we rate it: Great quality for the price
Arket’s take on the chore jacket is simple, functional and very wearable. Made from organic cotton in a heavyweight twill, their overshirt blurs the line between shirt and jacket — ideal for layering during spring or autumn.
With clean lines and minimal branding, it works well with everything from relaxed jeans to smarter trousers and boots.
Best for: Affordable style, clean minimalism
Available from: Arket (online and select stores)
5. Percival Workshirt – Best for British Cool
Price: £139
Why we rate it: Playful yet practical, perfect fit
East London brand Percival has carved a niche in modern menswear by reworking classics with fresh detailing. Their Workshirt is a chore jacket at heart, but with unique fabrics, bold colours, and clever pocket placements that add character.
If you want something that stands out a bit — without going over the top — this is the one.
Best for: Creative wardrobes, transitional dressing
Available from: Percival (online and in-store, London)
6. Oliver Spencer Buffalo Jacket – Best for Smart Layering
Price: £275
Why we rate it: Tailored feel, luxury finish
Oliver Spencer’s chore-inspired Buffalo Jacket is designed for men who want a more polished take on workwear. Cut from soft brushed cotton or structured wool, it feels smarter than most chore coats, yet retains that functional pocketed design.
It’s perfect for layering over a shirt and knitwear for business-casual looks or styling with denim on the weekend.
Best for: Office-to-evening wear, smart-casual wardrobes
Available from: Oliver Spencer (online and in-store)
7. A.P.C. Veste Travail – Best Minimalist French Style
Price: £240
Why we rate it: Parisian cool, premium fabrics
A.P.C.’s take on the chore jacket leans into minimalist luxury. Their Veste Travail is slim-cut and made from premium cotton with fine stitching and subtle details. It’s less rugged, more refined — ideal for fans of clean, unfussy design.
Pair it with straight-leg denim, a Breton tee and loafers for that timeless French look.
Best for: Parisian-inspired dressing, minimalists
Available from: A.P.C., SSENSE
8. Wax London Whiting Overshirt – Best for Print & Pattern
Price: £130
Why we rate it: Bold patterns, sustainable focus
If you’re looking to make more of a statement, Wax London’s Whiting Overshirt is a strong contender. It’s cut like a chore jacket but available in a wide range of bold checks, textured weaves and sustainable fabrics.
It’s perfect for guys who want a standout layering piece that doesn’t compromise on quality or structure.
Best for: Pattern lovers, relaxed layering
Available from: Wax London (online and in select retailers)
How to Style a Chore Jacket
One of the best things about chore jackets is their versatility. Here are a few easy ways to style yours:
- With jeans and a T-shirt – Simple, classic, foolproof
- Over knitwear – Add warmth and texture in cooler months
- With chinos and boots – Perfect for casual Fridays or weekend city strolls
- Layered under a coat – Works great in winter as a mid-layer
Whether you’re leaning workwear or smart-casual, the chore jacket plays well with most menswear pieces.
Final Thoughts
The men’s chore jacket continues to stand the test of time — offering practicality, clean design, and year-round wearability. Whether you’re after the heritage appeal of Le Mont Saint Michel, the elevated tailoring of Oliver Spencer, or the rugged streetwear vibes of Carhartt WIP, there’s a chore coat out there for every budget and style.
A well-chosen chore jacket is an investment in timeless, functional style — a piece you’ll wear again and again, season after season.