17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (2024)

You think you've seen it all. When it comes to fall jackets, you know the bombers, bikers, truckers, and peacoats. But now, we are going to introduce you to the style that's about to revolutionize the way you layer this season—and, for that matter, all year long. Presenting the chore coat: the go-anywhere, goes-with-everything topper that takes transitional dressing to a whole new level. You might know it. And if you don't, you should—some folks are willing to denounce it, but we never will. Because the style—lightweight, often a little boxy, and easier to swap in for a blazer than you might believe at first—is the ideal outer layer when brisk breezes start blowing.

Going to a restaurant with your significant other or Raya match? The chore coat is the ultimate throw-and-go option. Wear it over a tee or try it over an Oxford button-down. It works either way. Button it up for a dressier vibe, and should the night extend further, open it up and take it easy. And lest we forget the pockets, there's a whole mess of them, from two, three, or four sizable front patches, to the interior stash pockets for phones and wallets and the like. This means you can bring a charger, mints—hell, there's even have room for a paperback for your ride home.

It's probably time you copped a chore coat, about as perfect a lightweight, versatile jacket as they come. We've been diehard proponents of the style for hot minute, but there's no time like the present to invest in a silhouette that'll yield major dividends—and as a crucial layering piece throughout the coldest months of the year. So check out 17 of the best chore coats below.

best chore coat for actual chores

Patagonia Iron Forge Hemp Canvas Chore Coat

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Pros
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (8)Crafted from abrasion-resistant canvas
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (9)Bi-swing back for freedom of movement
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (10)Adjustable waist tab
Cons
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (11)Buyers report it runs large

Now this is a chore coat for the guys who don't want to have to buy another chore coat for, like, a decade. Not only is it durable, but it also has high performance value—Patagonia's hemp canvas fabric is thick, heavy, and has spacious pockets. No break-in period is needed, and no breaks will pervade the abrasion resistant fabric, either.

One buyer says: "This is exactly the coat I was looking for. Mostly natural fibers, tough yet lightweight, and a lot of pockets. I've only worn it a couple of times but I'm digging it."

ColorsInk Black, Coriander Brown
SizesXS-3XL
Materials12.9-oz 55% Industrial Hemp, 27% Recycled Polyester, 18% Organic Cotton Canvas

Best Everyday Chore Coat

Alex Crane Kite Jacket

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Pros
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (13)Sustainable craftsmanship
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (14)Full-bodied linen rarely requires ironing
Cons
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (15)Not very warm

Simple and stylish—just what a chore coat should be. Alex Crane's best-selling sustainable linen makes this coat an eco-conscious and style-conscious addition to your wardrobe. It has three deep pockets (one is internal) and has been pre-washed with biodegradable softeners for a lived-in, vintage look and feel.

One buyer says: "Right in between a shirt and a jacket. Very well made!"

Colors7
SizesXS-3XL
Materials100% French Linen

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Best Chore Jacket for Work

Quince Comfort Stretch Chore Jacket

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Pros
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (17)Has hidden side pockets on patch pockets
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (18)Double-brushed on interior and exterior for softness
Cons
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (19)Some buyers dislike the boxy fit

Here lies proof that you can score a versatile, stylish chore jacket for only 60 bucks. Quince's stretchy, light olive green jacket is a polished piece to wear to work without feeling overdressed, and a great everyday piece to slightly spiff up your tee and jeans, too.

One buyer says: "Wear it with anything, almost anyplace. Wore it with a tie and denims - it was okay. Toss it in the dryer with a wet towel and it comes out ready to wear. This is a versatile jacket with big pockets; what’s not to like?"

ColorsOlive, Black, Tobacco, Navy
SizesS-2XL
Materials97% Organic Cotton Twill, 3% Spandex

Best Budget Chore Jacket

H&M Cotton Canvas Shacket

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Pros
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (21)Deep pockets
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (22)Easy to dress up or down
Cons
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (23)Unlined design doesn't offer warmth

H&M's cotton canvas jacket looks good with nearly anything you pair it with, and at $50, she's a steal. Not only do the contrast-stitched details add some extra flair, but the lightweight, flexible fabric ensures you can wear this in a number of ways: as a shirt, as a jacket, under a coat or over a tee.

One buyer says: "Love this jacket. Structured, but not too stiff. The detail of the white stitching makes it look more expensive than it is."

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best genuine chore jacket

Le Mont St Michel French Moleskin Work Jacket

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Pros
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (25)Water-repellent
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (26)Hand-numbered label leaves space for your name
Cons
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (27)On the pricier side

Le Mont St Michel is trusted by French workmen in Normandy and Brittany, and if it's good enough for them, it's gonna be great for you. This authentic workwear style is all about being practical without slacking on style; see the trio of deep pockets, the timeless, boxy style with corozo buttons, and the water-repellent fabric.

One buyer says: "I love it! Fits me perfectly. I totally took a chance by ordering this piece, not knowing if it would work and would I have to return it, etc. I’m very pleased with the quality and fit. Love the color too. And I’m happy it didn’t cost too much $$$. This is my first experience with Huckberry and now I’m a fan!"

ColorsBlue, Forest, Khaki, Kraft, Navy
Sizes44-52
Materials100% Cotton Moleskin

best versatile chore jacket

J.Crew Cotton Moleskin Chore Jacket

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Pros
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (29)Has functional cuff buttons
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (30)Easy to throw in the wash
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (31)Brushed fabric offers a suede-like feel
Cons
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (32)Only one color option

When in doubt, turn to J.Crew. This style effortlessly merges the brand's inherent chicness with classic workwear vibes, resulting in a lightweight, soft, cotton chore coat that's up for anything. Style it like you would a casual blazer, or dress it down with some baggy pants and white sneakers.

One buyer says: "Great fit. Great Fabric. Great color. A real winner."

ColorsDark Green
SizesXS-2XL
Materials100% Cotton

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best corduroy chore jacket

Portuguese Flannel Labura Corduroy Chore Coat

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Pros
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (34)Straight fit makes it easy to layer on top of
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (35)Ample pocket space
Cons
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (36)Silhouette doesn't offer much room for layering underneath

If there's a time to wear corduroy, it's fall and winter. Something about the season just makes this soft, textured fabric feel fantastic—especially when its a corduroy chore coat. Portuguese Flannel has a cool, laid-back option with three pockets and a classic, tailored fit.

ColorsNavy, Olive
SizesS-2XL
Materials100% Cotton Corduroy

best workwear chore jacket

Carhartt Relaxed Fit Duck Unlined Chore Coat

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Pros
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (38)Has five pockets
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (39)Warm, durable fabric
Cons
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (40)Hand wash only

From the folks who do workwear like no other comes a durable, versatile chore coat that's tough enough for work (and, because it's Carhartt, cool enough for your Insta feed). With a corduroy-trimmed collar detail, deep, triple-stitched pockets, and a the tough duck cotton that Carhartt is known for, this is one you aren't going to need to replace for years to come.

ColorsBrown
SizesS-2XL
Materials12-Ounce, 99% Cotton, 1% Spandex Duck

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best denim chore coat

Gap Railroad Denim Chore Jacket

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Now 50% Off

Pros
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (42)Available in Regular and Tall fits
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (43)Corduroy collar detail
Cons
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (44)Not very warm

Gap is a go-to for comfy basics, and this chore jacket neatly falls into that category. Made from striped denim, this baggy option is versatile as hell. Pair it with anything from loafers to beat-up white sneakers and see for yourself.

One buyer says: "Although this chore coat's fabric is a bit thin (almost close to a shirt weight), the details are really nice—deep navy stripes, corduroy collar and cuffs, and unique pocket shapes/stitching. Should be a good piece for fall!"

ColorsIndigo Stripe
SizesXS-XL
Materials100% Cotton

best colorful chore coat

Schott NYC Corduroy Chore Jacket

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Pros
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (46)Has very deep pockets
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (47)Machine washable
Cons
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (48)Fits slightly short

For the guys who aren't afraid to add a pop of color to their wardrobe, Schott NYC has a classy, bold chore jacket that's perfect for autumn—it is corduroy, after all. This unlined style has roomy pockets, a point collar, and functional buttons at the cuffs.

ColorsBerry, Navy, Spruce, Off White
SizesS-2XL
Materials100% Cotton

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Best Low-Key Luxurious Chore Coat

PS by Paul Smith Chore Jacket

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17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (50)

Pros
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (51)Tailored silhouette
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (52)Versatile look
Cons
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (53)Dry clean only

A sheeny, navy corduroy chore jacket is a strong statement, but still easy to wear. Whether you're dressing this down with a white tee and jeans or up with a sweater and pleated pants, you're in good hands.

ColorsCobalt Blue
SizesXS-2XL
Materials98% Cotton, 2% Elastane

Best Classic Chore Coat

Dickies Stonewashed Duck Unlined Chore Coat

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Pros
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (55)Tough, sturdy fabric
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (56)Functional buttons at cuffs
Cons
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (57)Not very warm
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (58)Some buyers report it fits very oversized

Sometimes, you can't beat the originals, and the Dickies duck chore coat is one that just does it best. This is a no-nonsense, no-frills pick that still makes for a damn good streetwear vibe, but certainly packs the heat in terms of functionality, too. Just take a look at those deep pockets, adjustable cuffs, and durable fabric if you don't believe me.

One buyer says: "Excellent quality. Rare to find a barn coat without a fleece lining. Usually wear an XL but the 2XL gave more room to move around and also layer. Great product and I hope the unlined style stays on the product line for a long time!"

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best timeless chore jacket

Taylor Stitch Ojai Jacket

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Pros
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (60)Pre-washed for a lived-in feel
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (61)Plenty of pocket space, including a pen slot
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (62)Double-needle stitched for durability
Cons
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (63)Runs large

In soft, pre-washed twill, this is a chore coat you'll be reaching for all the damn time. Taylor Stitch has a timeless pick that brings a strong performance value, too, with double-needle stitching, brass details, bar-tacked pockets and even a pen slot in the chest pocket.

One buyer says: "My first Taylor Stitch purchase and I’m very happy with the fit and quality. I’m looking forward to trying other items as well."

Colors8
SizesXS-2XL
Materials8-oz. 100% Organic Cotton

best basic chore jacket

Nudie Jeans Buddy Logo-Embroidered Cotton-Twill Chore Jacket

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Pros
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (65)Easy to dress up or down
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (66)Relaxed cut is great for layering
Cons
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (67)Only one color option
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (68)Less pockets than other options

This jacket has been aptly named—it's so versatile and wearable, it's sure to become your best buddy. Nudie Jeans' minimalist vibe stays true in this style, and the relaxed-fit shape with lightweight cotton-twill fabric makes it a layering staple.

ColorsNavy
SizesS-XL
Materials100% Cotton

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best lightweight chore jacket

Todd Snyder Lightweight Japanese Selvedge Chore Coat

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Pros
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (70)Lightweight, pre-rinsed denim adds a cool, vintage flair
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (71)Designed to be easy to style with anything
Cons
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (72)Only one color option

Clean and cool, this selvedge chore coat is all about a fusion between minimalist style and high-quality design. Weighing in at only 11.5 ounces, the fabric is lightweight enough that you could even get away with wearing it in summer. Plus, it's already been rinsed for a fresh look.

ColorsCanvas
SizesXS-2XL
Materials100% Cotton

best vintage-inspired chore jacket

Wellen Garment Dyed Chore Coat

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Pros
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (74)Pigment dyeing adds a faded look
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (75)Has plenty of pockets, with side and top entry
Cons
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (76)Not very warm

Chic, minimalist, and such a damn good staple that you're going to learn how to style this with everything. Inspired by vintage French work coats, this has been garment-dyed for a pre-loved look, with cotton herringbone that gives it a worn-in feel, too. It has deep pockets and corozo nut buttons—clearly, Wellen thinking about the details, too.

One buyer says: "I recently purchased the Chore Jacket, and I couldn't be happier with my decision. As someone who is 5'8" and 155 pounds, the fit is absolutely perfect. I've already received numerous compliments while wearing it, which is always a great feeling! The jacket's fabric feels high-quality, durable, and comfortable—exactly what I was hoping for. The natural color is stylish and versatile, making it easy to pair with various outfits. One of my favorite features is the abundance of pockets, which are both practical and well-designed. Whether you're looking for a jacket that combines function with style or just something that stands out, this is a fantastic option. Highly recommend!"

ColorsNatural, French Blue, Tobala Green
SizesS-2XL
Materials100% Organic Cotton

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best high-end chore jacket

Mr P. Suede Chore Jacket

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Pros
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (78)Boxy fit adds modern look
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (79)Very warm
Cons
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (80)Has to be cleaned by specialists
  • 17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (81)$$$

For a healthy dose of understated luxury, Mr P. has a suede chore jacket that'll have you looking and feeling like the main character of your own movie. The soft fabric, deep pockets, and button-up front are proof that fashion and function can easily coexist.

ColorsBlue, Brown
SizesXS-2XL
Materials100% Goat Suede

What To Look For

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If you're planning on wearing your chore coat to, y'know, do actual chores, then a tough fabric is going to serve you well. Go for styles that use duck canvas, cotton, or even denim—you'll have a better time working hard in those than in the suede or corduroy options, which are admittedly great for when you're just trying to put together a stylish fit.

Features like pockets with ample capacity for whatever you need to stash are also good to keep your eye on—especially if you're using your chore jacket for functionality. And because chore jackets tend to be lightweight and ideal for layering, look for the right silhouette, too; a boxy or oversized fit is great for throwing a hoodie or thick sweater under.

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How To Style a Chore Coat

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Styling a chore coat isn't rocket science, but because these garments tend to be quite versatile, here are a few of our editors' favorite ways to wear 'em.

When you want to keep things casual, don't overthink it. Dress your chore coat down with jeans (yes, even if your chore coat is denim; a Canadian tux moment never hurt anybody) and your favorite sneakers, or with baggy pants and a good ol' loafer and white sock moment. If you need to layer, a simple tee, henley, or hoodie underneath will do the trick.

When you want to dress your chore jacket up a bit, don't be afraid to wear it underneath a blazer or a topcoat. A clean button-down underneath and some pleated pants with leather shoes is a good look, too.

How We Picked

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Here at Esquire, we've tried a lot of chore coats over the years. We're people who want to wear comfortable, durable styles that we don't have to replace with every new season, so to narrow down hundreds of styles to the best 17 picks above, we selected the chore jackets that ranked highest amongst our editors in comfort, durability, style, and iconic looks.

17 Chore Coats That Add Versatility to Every Outfit (2024)
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