First, allow me to provide some background. I'm in my mid-20's, and have only recently been introduced to the term 'trad' as a style I was always attracted to, but wasn't able to define. Forgive me if I sound at all naive. I'm only now beginning to compile what I think is a more appropriate wardrobe than the ubiquitous t-shirt and jeans I wore through college, and I'd like to think that as a young, ambitious professional, I have graduated to appreciating better quality, better fitting, and more stylish clothes (and other consumer goods).
The dress code at my office is generally casual: an OCBD and khakis are more than adequate on most days, and were I unconcerned at all, I'm sure I could get away with even less formality. Rarely, when meeting with clients, a jacket or suit and tie maybe needed, but I always know about this in advance (thank you to this forum for guidance in that regard). I spend 95% of the time in an office setting - but my question stems from what I do during the other 5%, which is spent in the field at highway projects and construction sites, during impromptu visits and inspections.
I've lost count of the number of trousers 'lost' by nicking or tearing them on equipment, grease stains, or simply placing unusual wear/stress on them. I'd like to incorporate something a bit more wear resistant, and admittedly the first item I could think of were Dickies brand work pants. My question then is whether Dickies (specifically the Original 874 model, which I have found to be exceptionally durable) are an appropriate 'trad' garment to pair with other elements of my wardrobe (OCBDs, crew neck sweaters, even a blazer), and a suitable alternative to the common Orvis/Lands End/Bills flat front khaki trousers. Note that I am not looking for a garment specifically for this "5%" time, as I think that is antithetical to the resourcefulness and versatility inherent to most 'trad' garments.
Perhaps it should be noted that while I don't believe any of their products are made in the USA, Dickies is an historically American brand, and one which I think carries a certain degree of respect as a recognized maker of durable work wear. Any guidance would be appreciated.
The dress code at my office is generally casual: an OCBD and khakis are more than adequate on most days, and were I unconcerned at all, I'm sure I could get away with even less formality. Rarely, when meeting with clients, a jacket or suit and tie maybe needed, but I always know about this in advance (thank you to this forum for guidance in that regard). I spend 95% of the time in an office setting - but my question stems from what I do during the other 5%, which is spent in the field at highway projects and construction sites, during impromptu visits and inspections.
I've lost count of the number of trousers 'lost' by nicking or tearing them on equipment, grease stains, or simply placing unusual wear/stress on them. I'd like to incorporate something a bit more wear resistant, and admittedly the first item I could think of were Dickies brand work pants. My question then is whether Dickies (specifically the Original 874 model, which I have found to be exceptionally durable) are an appropriate 'trad' garment to pair with other elements of my wardrobe (OCBDs, crew neck sweaters, even a blazer), and a suitable alternative to the common Orvis/Lands End/Bills flat front khaki trousers. Note that I am not looking for a garment specifically for this "5%" time, as I think that is antithetical to the resourcefulness and versatility inherent to most 'trad' garments.
Perhaps it should be noted that while I don't believe any of their products are made in the USA, Dickies is an historically American brand, and one which I think carries a certain degree of respect as a recognized maker of durable work wear. Any guidance would be appreciated.
