Glam Utility, Explained: Here's How to Wear the Trend That Blends Fashion and Function

The glam utility trend has been rocking the fashion world these days, from catwalks to red carpets, to your favorite influencer’s feed. It’s the perfect combination of function and high fashion. Think zippers, belts, adjustable straps, reworked fabrics, and pockets—lots and lots of pockets—that are usually incorporated into cargo pants and maxi skirts, utility jackets, and jumpsuits. Simply put, they’re workwear-inspired attire but mixed with statement-making elements—every practical fashionista’s dream.

Sounds like something you’d want to try? Get to know more about the trend and how you can achieve it below: 

What is the Glam Utility Trend?

As its name suggests, this trend revolves around utility fashion. It centers on practicality and functionality while incorporating a touch of glam. The trend has been spotted on runways, such as Fendi’s Spring Summer 2023 Women’s Fashion Show with their cargo mini skirts, shorts, and pants made of silk and their button-down tops and jackets with massive pockets and straps. You’ll also spot it in their most recent Spring/Summer 2024 Men’s Fashion Show, which focused on highlighting elements of workwear on the runway, such as aprons and work coats.

Glam utility is the highlight of Spring/Summer 2023 fashion, making appearances on the runways of Balenciaga, Dion Lee, Givenchy, Loewe, Simone Rocha, and many others. It looks like the trend isn't going anywhere anytime soon. Want to see how you can rock this style off the runway? Take some cues from local celebrities who have been spotted making a case for this aesthetic.

Local Celebrities and Influencers Making a Case for the Glam Utility Trend 

1. Pia Wurtzbach 

Here, the beauty queen sported a leather monogram embossed utility jacket from Louis Vuitton. Pairing it with cycling shorts and patent leather black boots, Pia Wurtzbach exudes an undeniable coolness. And she doesn't stop there! She carries the sleek monogram Eclipse Clutch Box from the same brand, tying the whole look together with undeniable style.

2. Kelsey Merritt

Take a cue from Kelsey Merritt and discover a more lowkey yet chic way to rock the glam utility trend. She effortlessly combines a denim belted jacket as her top with crisp white shorts, creating a refreshing and stylish ensemble. Adding a touch of luxury, she pairs her outfit with white Hermes Oran sandals and a woven Marina Raphael June bag, showcasing the perfect blend of utility fashion and simple, elegant pieces.

3. Ida Anduyan

Embracing the glam utility trend is fashion influencer Ida Anduyan with her signature all-black outfit. She flaunts a black leather utility jacket, exuding an undeniable edge. The outfit is completed with flared cargo pants and chunky loafers, adding a touch of attitude to the ensemble. 

4. Heart Evangelista

Heart Evangelista attends Paris Fashion Week in a top showcasing utility fashion elements, such as the belt holding her top, adding an intriguing and fashionable twist. Complementing the top, she rocks metallic blue trousers from the luxury fashion house Off-White, elevating her look to new heights. 

5. Liza Soberano

Liza Soberano is also a fan of the glam utility trend, especially after she's rebranded with an edgier, cooler style aesthetic. An example is the double denim look she rocked in New York, featuring pieces from the H&M x Mugler collab.

SHOP: Glam Utility Essentials 

Hayden Cargo Pants, P3499, COTTON ON, Zalora

Zip Detail Denim Bustier, P1369, TRENDYOL, Zalora

Belted Black-Wash Denim Jumpsuit, P9295, & OTHER STORIES, Zalora

Belted Linen Utility Jacket, P7500, COS, Zalora

Leon Cargo Mini Skirt, P2533, PRINCESS POLLY, Zalora

Cargo Pocket Maxi Skirt, P1495, FOREVER 21, Zalora

Zip-Up Bustier, P3395, ZARA, zara.com

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