When we think of “functional,” apparel, we think of boxy T-shirts and unflattering sweatpants. Today, the utility trend incorporates both fitted and intentionally baggy pieces with a slight taper in the right places to show off a woman’s curves, or incorporate stylish embellishments to create a visual, rugged statement -- much like the Free People Platform Boot found at T.Georgiano's which dress up the hard-edge look of combat boots with long, leather straps to tie up the ankle and indented chunky heels to add a few extra inches of power.

The contrasting, unconventional nature of this relaxed style is what makes it so appealing for tomboys who still like to look good. Marching from the fashion runways in 2019 and carrying well into the streets of 2020, it appears the new iteration of the industrial look is here to stay awhile. Military undertones, neutral hues, synthetic fabrics and durable (even waterproof) textiles, cargo pockets, straps, metal accents, drawstrings, and zippers galore are making their way into wardrobe pieces such as structural boiler suits, vintage-inspired jumpsuits, trench coats, bomber jackets and even tote bags -- much like the Haute Shore Greyson Tote made of neoprene material, perforated eyelet detail and tether rope-like straps, found in an array of neutral color combos at INfluence.

You no longer have to be a garage mechanic, racecar driver or farmer to rock the utility “coverall” look. And well-known designers like Dickies and Levi’s aren’t the only ones providing the goods. The Gia Romper by Grey State, found at Fixxation Boutique, features oversize pockets with mesh detail, a full-front zipper, belt loops at the waist for a tighter fit, cuffed sleeves, breathable fabric and rolled shorts to show off the legs. Pair with a retro bandana, some combat boots, and a utility bag and you’ve got yourself a Rosie the Riveter 2.0, ready to be put to work and get a little dirty.

For a utilitarian power suit with a retro spin, trailblaze in a blazer from Moodie’s Lily matching set at BLEND Fashion House. The 100 percent cotton material makes this business-casual outfit breathable and comfy to work in, while the tie-dye pattern and faux belt buckle is perfectly executed with ‘60s chicness. SRQ

Moodie Lily Tie-Dye Blazer, $110; Matching Short, $82; BLEND Fashion House, 1913 S. Osprey Ave., Sarasota, 941-552-9379, blendfashionhouse.com, @blend_fashion_house. 

Grey State Gia Romper, $128; Fixxation Boutique, 1108 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota, 941-467-3553, fixxationboutique.com, @fixxationbtq.

Haute Shore Greyson Tote Lady, $98; Greyson Tote Naples, $95; INfluence Style, 474 John Ringling Blvd., Sarasota, 941-343-2315, influencestyle.com, @influencestyle.

Free People Blake Platform Boot, $199; T.Georgiano’s Boutique, 1409-B 1st St., Sarasota, 941-870-3727, tgeorgianos.com, @tgeorgianos.