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Established over 20 years ago.Dickies Work Pants Fit Guide 2025: How to Style 874, 873 & 872 Styles
Dickies Work Pants Fit Guide 2025: How to Choose Between the 874, 873 & 872 Styles
Looking for the perfect pair of Dickies Work Pants but not sure which fit is right for you? With so many variations—like the 874, 873, and 872 styles—it can be tricky to know which one to choose, especially if you’re new to the brand. We get it: the last thing you want is to get your eagerly awaited order only to find that the fit isn't right. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the fit details of Dickies’ most popular work pants styles—874, 873, and 872—so you can make an informed decision. Plus, we’ll share tips on how to style each pair, whether you're heading to work or a casual outing.
What Makes Dickies Work Pants Special?
Before diving into the fit specifics, let’s talk about what makes Dickies Work Pants a standout choice for everyday wear. Constructed from Dickies' signature recycled poly-cotton twill, these work pants feature a wrinkle and stain-resistant coating, making them durable and easy to care for. Designed for hard work, they provide comfort and reliability, whether you're on the job or out and about. These versatile trousers have earned a reputation for their resilience, making them a top pick for skaters, workers, and fashion enthusiasts alike.
So with that in mind, we’ve put together an all-in-one guide to three key Dickies Work Pant fits:
(Don’t worry: we explain exactly what ‘Original Fit’ means further down, because that official name is pretty vague.)
As well as a description of each style, we’ve put some accompanying photos and a video of our model walking in them. That should be everything you need to make your choice.
The Dickies 874 Work Pant: Original Fit
Best For: A classic workwear style, the iconic 874s feature a high-waist, regular fit with a straight leg and a classic centre crease, giving you the perfect blend of comfort and style.
The Dickies 874 Work Pant is the brand’s flagship style. The 874 is the ‘classic’ Dickies Work Pant, i.e. the first style that came on the market – hence the name Original Fit. The 874s are the loosest style in the Dickies work pant line-up, offering a straight-leg cut that's ideal for those who prioritise comfort while working or on the move. Originally designed for labour, the 874s quickly became a favourite in the 90s among skaters and in the rap music scene due to its toughness and reinterpretation of the original high rise fit into a baggy style by wearing larger sizes.
How to Style the 874: To achieve a high-waisted look, stick with your usual size. If you prefer a baggier fit with the pants sitting lower on the hips, try sizing up by two sizes. For example, if your usual waist size is 30, try a 32-inch waist. Dickies 874 pants are incredibly versatile, making them ideal for any urban style. Pair them with sneakers for a skateboarding session or trusty Red Wing work boots for a day on the job.
Explore the full range of Dickies 874 Pants here.
The Dickies 873 Work Pant: Slim Straight Fit
Best For: A comfortable slim straight-leg fit that sits at the waist, offering a casual yet tailored style.
If you love the straight-leg look but prefer a more refined silhouette, the Dickies 873 Slim Straight Fit is your go-to option. The 873 offers a similar fit to the 874 around the waist and thighs, but with a straight cut that gently tapers from the knee down. This creates a cleaner, slimmer silhouette that works well for both casual and semi-formal settings.
How to Style the 873: The 873 pants sit comfortably just below the waist, offering a smart-casual fit that's perfect for any occasion. Pair the 873s with a simple Urban Industry T-Shirt and classic sneakers from the Vans Premium range for an effortless, streetwear-inspired look. If you're looking to dress them up, add a polished touch with a pair of Kleman shoes.
Check out our full range of Dickies 873 Work Pants here.
The Dickies 872 Work Pant: Slim Fit
Best For: A smart, tailored look with a slim silhouette that sits comfortably at the waist.
The 872 Work Pant is the perfect choice for those who prefer a more contemporary, slim fit. With a narrow leg, tapering towards the ankle, the 872 offers a smart look without feeling too formal. The slim fit style has been hugely popular in recent years and continues to be a go-to for many, even as wider pants make a comeback.
How to Style the 872: The classic look for the 872 pants involves socks subtly peeking through while showing off stylish sneakers, either by opting for a shorter leg length or by rolling up the hem. For a sharp, clean look, pair them with low-profile sneakers like Novesta Star Masters. If you're not into the shorter leg style, that's fine too; a longer leg works just as well, sitting comfortably over the tongue of your sneakers.
Explore the full range of Dickies 872 Work Pants here.
How to Choose the Right Dickies Work Pant Fit for You
Choosing the right pair of Dickies Work Pants depends on your body type, comfort preferences, and style. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- 874 (Original Fit): Best for a classic, relaxed fit and everyday comfort.
- 873 (Slim Straight Fit): Ideal for a slightly tailored look that still offers room around the waist and thighs.
- 872 (Slim Fit): The slimmest option, perfect for those who want a more streamlined silhouette.
Final Thoughts: Which Dickies Work Pant Should You Choose?
Now that you know about the key features of the 874, 873, and 872 Dickies Work Pants, it’s time to select the one that best fits your needs and style. Whether you’re drawn to the laid-back, classic fit of the 874, the slightly tailored straight-leg design of the 873, or the sleek, slim fit of the 872, there’s a Dickies Work Pant for everyone.
Don’t forget to explore our full range of Dickies products and take advantage of our exclusive deals!
