By: Lindsay Tapscott

Don’t get us wrong: we love summer fashion. Sleeveless tops, dresses, cropped pants ––summer styles are hot-weather must-haves that belong in every woman’s closet. But, while there’s always a time and a place for the breezy and beautiful, sometimes the season calls for something a little more practical. When what you’re seeking is 100% complete carefree ease, it’s best to lean on pieces that blend function with fashion. Whether you’re jetting away on a wild adventure in another country or simply running on a busy schedule, utilitarian-inspired pants, tops, skirts and more can be both very on-trend and totally wearable. 

Introducing our Safari Quest Collection 

Our new Safari Quest Collection is a combination of utilitarian style, timeless elegance and functional details like flap pockets, tabs and buttons. What is utilitarian style, exactly? Influenced by the military and traditional menswear, utilitarian style first came back into fashion in a big way in the ‘70s, particularly during the rise of second-wave feminism (it then had a bit of a resurgence in late ’90s and early 2000s). Equal parts rugged and refined, it’s typically defined by its minimalism and practicality, and its tones of khaki, olive, brown and beige. 

Pocket to me

A big signifier of utilitarian style is the flap or cargo pocket. Long considered a symbol of independence for women (pockets were a design feature exclusive to men’s clothing until the 1920s, when women started co-opting menswear styles for themselves after years of being corseted into Victorian gowns and carrying very tiny purses), pockets on clothing mean convenience and the ability to carry many things at once. Honestly, how many times have you said to a friend, “Thank you, and it has pockets!” when she compliments you on what you’re wearing? We love the freedom pockets give us when we don’t feel like carrying a purse––they hold our keys, lipstick, debit cards, our phones and much more. 

Button Up

Another defining feature of utilitarian style is the button. More than simply a sturdy, round object that’s practical for closing your shirt or keeping your essentials safely tucked away, it can also add interest to an otherwise basic piece of clothing with its many variances in colour, size and marbling. Whether functional or simply decorative, the button is one of fashion’s favourite fasteners, up there with zippers and buckles. 

Nail utilitarian style with our collection

We have a number of high-quality utilitarian-chic pieces in our Safari Quest Collection to help you achieve low-key calm in your look without compromising on cool. Our Safari Jumpsuit is an everyday essential––made in our super-soft signature jersey fabric with marbled tortoise buttons, its drawstring waist cinches in the style while the convenient side pockets offer effortless ease. For cooler nights, look to our Safari Cardigan, which makes any outfit look instantly put-together with its button-down front closure and collar, and its button tabs at the sleeve and shoulder. In the mood for something a little dressier? Our ankle-length Safari Skirt features a cargo patch pocket at the side, so you can feel polished while frolicking hands-free. 

We focus on creating a timeless style in your closet with favourites you will love forever, while making sure you’re keeping up to date on the latest fashions, using the highest-quality fabrics. We also carry a variety of sizes from petite to plus size. 
Find your perfect utilitarian-chic piece today.