How to style a chore coat or work jacket

A chore coat is an unlined cotton jacket with three or four patch pockets. An overshirt is lighter and cut like a shirt. Worker, utility and military jackets are close relatives with different collars and pockets.

All of them are styled the same way: worn open, over a simpler top.

The simplest version is a plain or striped T-shirt underneath, with the jacket open. Long-sleeve T-shirts and polos work too and keep the cuffs tidy when you push the jacket sleeves up.

A boxy jacket balances wide and relaxed jeans well, since both have workwear roots. Straight jeans give a cleaner line if you prefer less volume. A mid or light wash keeps the contrast with a dark jacket.

Cream, sand or ecru canvas trousers make a work jacket look more considered, and they are the alternative to denim when the outfit needs to read smart casual.

Blue, navy, sand and khaki are the classic workwear colours. Repeat the jacket colour once elsewhere: a navy jacket with a navy-striped top, a sand jacket with cream trousers, a blue chore coat with a blue cap.

Suede sneakers and a cotton cap keep the outfit casual. For a smarter version, leave the cap and wear a clean leather court shoe.