Lab Coat Chronicles: From Origins to Icon

Lab coats, those crisp, white garments worn by professionals in scientific and medical fields, have become iconic symbols of expertise, precision, and authority. But how did these seemingly simple coats evolve, and why are they still prevalent today? Let’s delve into the origins and explore their significance across different professions.

The Birth of the Lab Coat

A Brief Historical Overview

The lab coat’s roots trace back to the late 19th century. As scientific disciplines expanded, researchers needed practical attire that protected their clothing from spills, chemicals, and biological agents. Enter the lab coat—a long, knee-length buttoned garment made of durable cotton or linen.

Key Moments:

  1. Early Pioneers: In the 1880s, German chemists and physicians adopted lab coats to maintain hygiene and prevent contamination. These early coats were often beige or grey.
  2. Florence Nightingale: The legendary nurse and statistician Florence Nightingale popularized the white lab coat in healthcare settings. She believed that cleanliness and professionalism were intertwined, and her influence extended beyond nursing.
  3. Medical Schools and Hospitals: By the early 20th century, medical schools and hospitals worldwide embraced lab coats, becoming synonymous with the vocations. They symbolized expertise, and their pristine appearance conveyed trust to patients.

The Symbolism of the White Coat

Beyond Practicality

The white lab coat transcends mere functionality. Here’s why:

  1. Authority: When a doctor or scientist dons a white coat, it signals authority. Patients and colleagues instinctively recognize their expertise.
  2. Psychological Impact: Studies show that wearing medical lab coats enhances focus, attention, and precision. It’s a form of “enclothed cognition.”
  3. Trust: Patients associate the white coat with trustworthiness. It’s a visual cue that reassures them during vulnerable moments.

Lab Coats in Different Professions

Beyond Medicine

  1. Physicians and Surgeons: A doctors coat helps protect against bodily fluids, but they also serve as a canvas for personalized pins, badges, and name tags.
  2. Scientists and Researchers: Whether in a chemistry lab or a biology field station, scientists wear lab coats. The pockets hold pens, notebooks, and tools of inquiry.
  3. Pharmacists: Behind the pharmacy counter, lab coats convey professionalism. They’re also practical for handling medications.
  4. Veterinarians: Treating animals requires protective gear. Lab coats keep veterinarians clean during examinations and surgeries.
  5. Dentists: Dental professionals wear lab coats for hygiene and to maintain a sterile environment.
  6. Forensic Experts: Lab coats are essential in crime scene investigations. They protect against contaminants and preserve evidence.

Contemporary Trends

Personalization and Sustainability

  1. Customization: Lab coats now come in various styles, colours, and lengths. Some institutions allow personalized embroidery or patches.
  2. Eco-Friendly Materials: As awareness grows, eco-conscious professionals opt for lab coats made from sustainable fabrics.
  3. Gender-Neutral Designs: The traditional unisex lab coat is evolving to accommodate diverse gender identities.

Lab Coat Alternatives

Scrubs and Specialised Uniforms

When it comes to professional attire, there are alternatives to the classic lab coat.

  1. Scrubs: In healthcare, scrubs have become an alternative uniform to lab coats. Scrubs are commonly worn by medical professionals, especially in hospitals and clinics. They come in various colours and are lightweight, comfortable, and easy to clean. Unlike lab coats, scrubs are often unisex and don’t have buttons or zippers. They’re practical for quick changes and frequent washing.
  2. Professional Jackets: Some fields opt for tailored jackets or blazers instead of lab coats. These can be made from more stylish fabrics and have a professional appearance. Professional jackets are common in business settings, but they can also work well in research or clinical environments.
  3. Aprons: While not a direct replacement for lab coats, aprons serve a similar purpose—protecting clothing. They’re often used in industrial or culinary settings. Aprons come in various materials (such as vinyl or canvas) and styles (full-length or waist-length).
  4. Disposable Gowns: In sterile environments like operating rooms, disposable gowns are essential. They provide a barrier against contaminants and are discarded after use. These gowns are lightweight and prevent cross-contamination.
  5. Specialised Attire: Depending on the profession, specialized attire may be necessary. For example:
    • Radiation Protection Garments - Worn by radiologists during X-rays or other imaging procedures.
    • Chemical-Resistant Suits - Used by chemists working with hazardous substances.
    • Flame-Resistant Clothing - Essential for firefighters and certain industrial roles.

Remember that the choice of attire depends on the specific work environment, safety requirements, and personal comfort. Each alternative has its advantages, so professionals can choose what suits them best.

Conclusion

The lab coat, once a practical necessity, has transformed into a powerful symbol. It bridges generations, disciplines, and cultures. So, next time you see a scientist or physician in their crisp white doctors coat, remember the rich history and the weight it carries—a legacy of knowledge, care, and dedication. In the grand tapestry of professional attire, the lab coat remains a timeless thread, connecting generations of professionals in the pursuit of understanding and healing.

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The Evolution of Nurses' Uniforms in UK Hospitals

Nurses’ Scrub Uniforms in the UK - More Than Just Clothes

In the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), a nurse’s uniform serves both practical and symbolic purposes. Typical nurses scrub sets - consisting of a tunic top and trousers - is designed to be comfortable and practical for long shifts. But the colours and patterns also identify roles, specialities, and hierarchy in a way that promotes trust between healthcare professionals.

A Brief History

Modern scrub-style uniforms emerged in the early 20th century, when garments were made to be easily washable, durable and hygienic. Traditionally sewn from white cotton or linen, bright white scrubs portrayed cleanliness and sterility. By mid-century, polyester-cotton blend scrubs offered increased durability and easy maintenance. Nurses tunics and trousers replaced strict dresses as more flexible and mobile designs were adopted. In NHS facilities today, the all-white uniform has given way to colourful scrubs adorned in cheerful patterns. Though white remains dominant, the explosion of colour and pattern options allows customization and personalisation for nurses.

Fabrics and Features

Contemporary nurses scrubs are designed for comfort and convenience during long, physically demanding shifts. Stretchy polyester and polyester-cotton blends provide flexibility and shape-retention. Special moisture-wicking and anti-microbial fabrics keep nurses drier and odour-free. Multiple pockets on scrubs tops and trousers keep essentials within easy reach. Many NHS trusts now provide scrubs for nurses rather than requiring them to purchase their own. This helps maintain consistency in appearance and quality across roles. Trust-issued scrub sets are typically color-coded by department or function. For example, nurses in maternity wards often wear pink or purple sets. Standard policies regulate appropriate scrub colours, fits, accessories and shoes.

Customization and Personalization

While NHS policies standardise fundamental elements of nurses’ scrubs, some allowance for personalisation still remains. Nurses may opt for V-neck, round neck or tunic style tops based on comfort and fit preferences. Prints or patterns can reflect individual tastes, within defined parameters. Small embellishments like embroidered names help nurses stand out while still adhering to dress code guidelines. The nurses uniform has become more than just functional workwear. The vibrant colours and cheerful patterns of modern scrub sets lift workplace morale. Nurses take professional pride in wearing attire specially designed for their demanding but essential roles supporting patient health and wellbeing. More than just clothes, the nurses’ scrubs uniform facilitates care, communication and compassion in the UK’s healthcare facilities.

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5 Reasons Why Cargo Trousers are the Perfect Workwear Choice

Cargo trousers have long been a popular choice for workwear, thanks to their versatility, functionality, and comfort. But what makes them so perfect for the job? Here are five reasons:

  1. Plenty of Pockets: The multiple pockets on cargo trousers provide a convenient way to store tools, supplies, and other items. This can be helpful for workers who need to have their hands free.
  2. Fully Functionable: Cargo trousers are a practical choice for workwear, made from durable materials which are more resistant to wear & tear in a variety of settings including mechanics, landscaping and construction, where reflective cargo pants aren't uncommon.
  3. Comfortable Fit: They are typically made from breathable fabrics that allow air to circulate, keeping the wearer cool and dry. This is important for workers who may be working in hot or humid environments.
  4. Versatile Style: Cargo pants can be dressed up or down, making them a versatile option for any work environment. This is important for staff, who may need to switch between different settings throughout the day.
  5. Increasingly Stylish: Cargo trousers are becoming increasingly stylish, and there are now many fashionable options available. This makes them a great choice for many industries who want to look professional but also stylish.

How Cargo Trousers Are Used in Healthcare Professions

Cargo scrub trousers are used by healthcare professionals in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, doctor's offices, dental practices and veterinary surgeries. They are a popular choice for nurses, doctors, technicians, and other healthcare workers.

Scrubs cargo pants offer a number of advantages for medical professionals, including:

  • Storage Space: The multiple pockets in NHS cargo trousers provide plenty of storage space for all the essential tools and supplies that medical professionals need, such as stethoscopes, pens, and bandages.
  • Durability: Cargo trousers are made from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of everyday use in a healthcare setting. This is important for healthcare professionals, who may be exposed to spills, chemicals, and other hazards.
  • Comfort: Cargo pants are designed to be comfortable and allow for a full range of motion, especially drawstring cargo pants. This is important for health industry professionals, who may be on their feet for long periods of time and need to be able to move easily.
  • Fit: Scrub trousers with cargo pockets should be loose-fitting enough to allow for freedom of movement, but not so loose that they are baggy or cumbersome like our range of Dickies cargo pants.

Women's Cargo Work Trousers

Women's cargo work trousers are also a versatile and practical choice for women who are looking for comfortable and durable workwear that can withstand a variety of activities. They typically have a relaxed fit with plenty of pockets for storing tools, equipment, and other essentials. Cargo work pants are also made from high-quality materials that are hard wearing, making them a good investment for women who work in demanding environments.

Cargo trousers are typically made from cotton, canvas, or denim. In recent years, there has been a growing trend of ladies combats becoming more fashionable. Many designers are now creating women's elasticated waist cargo trousers that are stylish and feminine, while still maintaining their practical features. This makes cargo trousers a great option for women who want to look good and feel comfortable at the same time.

Conclusion

Cargo work trousers are a versatile and functional workwear option that is perfect for male & female healthcare professionals. They offer plenty of storage space, durability, comfort, and a versatile style. If you are looking for a workwear pant that can keep up with the demands of your job, cargo trousers are a great choice.

Here are some additional tips for choosing the right cargo trousers for medical professionals:

  • Choose a pair that is made from a durable material, such as cotton or canvas.
  • Look for a pair with multiple pockets that are large enough to accommodate all of your essential tools and supplies.
  • Choose a pair that is comfortable and allows for a full range of motion.
  • Consider the style of the cargo trousers and choose a pair that you feel confident wearing in your work setting.

With so many great options available for both men and women, there is sure to be a pair of cargo trousers that is perfect for you. So next time you are looking for a new pair of work trousers, be sure to give cargo trousers a try.

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Ultimate Guide to buying Scrubs

Ultimate Scrubs buying guide

Scrubs Ultimate Guide

If you are new to Scrubs, it may seem like a minefield out there. Post-Covid a lot of you in the Medical, Care and Beauty industries who didn’t wear Scrubs before are now having to wear extra PPE to keep yourselves and your clients safe.

Whether you are new to buying Scrubs or you just need a refresh on what is available for yourself and your team, you may need some guidance on what is best for you, and what is available on the market.

Here at Work in Style, we have put together this Ultimate Scrubs Buying Guide. Taking you through all of your options, be that Style, Brand or material, we are here to help you make the best and most informed decision on your new Scrubs.

The main things you may want to take in to consideration when buying your Scrubs are;

  • Fit
  • Style
  • Material
  • Practicality
  • Brand
  • Personalisation

Below we will go in to detail on each of these points, but first let’s take a look at What Scrubs are and who wears them…

What are Scrubs?

Scrubs are clothing designed to be worn in the Medical industry and more specifically by those providing patient care, they are easy to wear and easy to wash garments which are designed to create a barrier between the person wearing the Scrubs and any hazardous substances/chemicals which they may come in to contact with. This greatly reduces risk of contamination and risk of infections.

This type of clothing became known as Scrubs as they are used in a sterile (scrubbed) environment

Scrubs have been worn by Surgeons in America for many years but have only recently become popular in the UK in the past 10-20 years, replacing the classic Tunic style we may be used to seeing in hospitals and on our TV screens. Since the Covid 19 pandemic we are seeing more and more Healthcare professionals wearing Scrubs for daily use.

Scrubs are a great tool in large hospital settings to separate staff from patient or to identify team members, Scrub top and Scrub bottoms come in many brands, colours and sizes which can be mixed and match for your perfect set, or to differentiate between job roles and departments.

Who wears Scrubs?

The NHS have been using Scrubs for the longest time but are now being joined by an array of professions, Healthcare and more;

Nurses – Scrubs are great for Nurses as they provide comfort and ease of movement on their long demanding shifts

Doctors – Great for Surgeons especially as the Scrubs can be washed at high temperatures to further prevent any risk of infection or spread of contaminants

Vets – Lots of our Scrubs have fabric technologies such as soil release and anti-static which makes it super easy to wipe off hair, fluff and dust and guarantees you won’t end your day covered in animal hair (although we suspect that does kind of come with the territory)

Dentists – Dentists love our Scrubs! Especially the antimicrobial and fluid barrier properties which repel unwanted fluids which may come flying their way!

Care workers – Traditionally seen in Tunics, Care workers are now making the move to Scrubs after seeing a greater focus on infection control (Post Covid)

Midwives – I think it goes without saying that a Midwife will want some serious barrier protection between themselves and their patient and Scrubs are perfect for this

Beauticians – A new player on the block, since Covid-19 the Beauty and hair industries have begun to take extra precautions to protect themselves and their customers by investing in Scrubs for their teams

Alternative therapists – Think Sports therapists, Physios, Reiki masters and Acupuncturist, there are dozens of  alternative therapists out there who now encourage wearing Scrubs for protection and comfort

Students – We supply scrubs to Nursing students all over the country who wear their very first set of Work in style Scrubs with pride!

 

Ultimate comfort for all body types

 

What to take in to consideration when buying your first or next set of Scrubs;

Fit – Scrubs are designed to be comfortable and free flowing to make your life and job easier

When choosing your Scrub set you want to look at the pictures and the product descriptions to ensure you are choosing the right fit for you, maybe you want a nice big free flowing top so you will go for a size up in a Unisex top. Want something more fitted? Then you may choose a ladies top with rib knit panels which are more fitted to the body to accentuate shape and look more fashionable and flattering

Whilst most of our Scrub trousers are straight leg, we also have jogger style trousers which are designed to be extra comfortable and wrinkle free for easy care

We have men’s, Ladies and Unisex Scrubs available. And remember that all of our Men’s styles can be used as Unisex - Make sure you use our size guides and you should get the perfect fit every time (and if you don’t we offer free returns on all UK mainland orders)

Style

Your usual Scrub set will consist of a V neck scrub top with short dolman sleeves and Straight leg scrub trousers with either an elasticated or drawstring waist, however this can vary when looking at the more premium Scrub styles. Here’s a few examples of different styles of Scrub Tops and Bottoms;

V Neck

Mock Wrap Top

Drawstring waist Trousers

Elasticated waist Trousers

Material

Materials will vary throughout brands and ranges with some of our brands now using recycled materials made from plastic bottles; Barco One and Skechers Scrubs are saving billions of bottles from landfill every year with their recycled materials. Most of our Scrubs will be made with a mixture of Polyester and Cotton with spandex added for stretch.

A very important factor in Scrub materials are the fabric technologies used, all aimed at keeping your scrubs clean, stain resistant and extra comfortable, for instance;

2 or 4 way stretch fabric – Stretch fabric achieved with small amounts of spandex in the fabric, the slight stretch gives your Scrubs the perfect amount of stretch for the perfect fit and added comfort

Anti-microbial – Providing long lasting freshness and protection against bacteria. Antimicrobial fabric technologies inhibit the growth of bacteria, algae and yeast, minimize odours and stains and therefore prolong the useful life of your Scrub set

Fluid barrier – The fluid barrier technologies are designed to resists spills for long lasting protection and make your clothing more breathable and durable, this feature is especially fantastic for Dentists and Vets due to the nature of their work

Anti-static – The anti-static technologies in our Scrubs is particularly useful for Vets as it allows fluff, dust and hair to release quickly from the surface of the fabric

Soil release – Soil release is achieved with a chemical finish that helps to easily remove dirt from the garment, while soil release will not prevent dirt from touching your scrubs, it will make it super easy to wipe and wash away with no special laundering needed.

Scrubs that last

Practicality (pockets, panels, technologies)

Whilst looking and feeling good in your Scrubs is great, the practicality of them is the most important factor, and Scrubs sure are practical!

You’ve already read about their many uses throughout an array of professions, Medical and not, you’ve read about their unique materials and fabric technologies which will keep you clean and safe at work, and you’ve read about the great range of fits, styles and sizes for all body types, but let’s delve a little deeper here in to the small details which make Scrubs the perfect choice for Healthcare professionals and more.

All of our Scrubs come with pockets, I doubt you have ever done a shift where you haven’t been over encumbered with utensils, don’t worry, Work in Style have your back, with chest pockets, pen slots and Patch pockets and media loops on our Scrub tops. Our Scrub trousers are bursting at the seams with pockets and storage options – Back pockets, front pockets, Cargo pockets, hidden zipper pockets, media loops and more. Check out the descriptions on our product pages to see exactly what pocket and storage options each Scrub Top and Bottoms have.

Many of our Scrubs have side vents and panels which create extra space and movement in your Scrub sets, this extra ease of movement is so valuable on long hectic shifts, the comfortableness of our Scrubs is one of their most important features!

 

 

Brands

We sell a range of Scrub brands here at Work in Style, maybe you already have a favourite Scrub brand or maybe you’ll see a trusted brand name here which you recognise.

Skechers – Famous for footwear, but they do plenty more! Skechers Scrubs have already taken the US by storm and are now coming for the UK with sportswear inspired fabrics and fashionable yet comfortable designs.

Barco One – Premium Scrubs for the modern healthcare professional, using the latest technologies and ultra-soft and comfortable fabrics

Cherokee – The number one player in the Scrubs industry, we have been stocking Cherokee for many years and have hundreds of customers who are converted for life

Dickies – A trusted workwear brand, you may think of workwear trousers when you think of Dickies, but we can assure you their Scrubs brand are just as robust and durable as the workwear they are known for

Work in style – Our very own Scrubs and where it all started, we pride ourselves on classic and affordable Scrub sets, worn by hundreds of thousands of Healthcare professionals across the UK!

 

Personalisation

Want to take your Scrubs to the next level? Get them personalised with your name, job title and/or company logo. We can offer embroideryon almost all of our Scrub tops and we like to think we have made the process as easy as possible.

You can add embroidery to your basket when placing your order, and then a simple email over to us to get your embroidery design set up before we add the embroidery in house.

We have received fantastic feedback from our existing customers on our embroideries, it really adds a unique flare to your uniforms and is also great for big teams with different job roles, take a look at some examples of what we have already done below;


@clareogradyholistictherapies


@marginsonmedical

 

Conclusion

Scrubs are the best choice for comfortable and practical healthcare, with their fabric technologies to keep you and your patients safe, plenty of colours and sizes to kit out your whole team, and a whole array of options to personalise your Scrubs. Order from our Scrubs range today, and don’t forget we offer free UK delivery on orders over £75 and free returns for our UK mainland customers

ORDER YOUR NEW FAVOURITE SCRUBS NOW

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Grey's Anatomy Scrubs

Back in 2006 Barco Uniforms collaborated with ABC to produce medical scrubs inspired by the popular Grey’s Anatomy TV show, and from this collaboration came what are now some of the most popular Scrubs/Workwear worn by Healthcare Professional across the globe. With Tailored flattering fits, premium fabrics and finer designer details, there’s many reasons why Grey’s Anatomy by Barco is a uniform favourite throughout the healthcare profession, and the top 4 reasons are;

Fashion – These Scrubs are made to be fashionable, and especially curated with healthcare professionals in mind

Fit – Comfort is always one of the top priorities of the Barco brand when designing their Scrub ranges, and Grey’s Anatomy by Barco is no different, made with stretchy and soft materials with lots of added extras for ultimate comfort; elasticated waists, V neck cuts and more

Fabric – The Grey’s Anatomy Scrubs range is ready for anything your job may throw at you, with an unbelievable array of Fabric technologies and features to keep you clean, cool and comfortable on any shift and easy care made to be durable through many washes. Spandex Stretch Moisture wicking Wrinkle free Soil release Soft hand

Function – Any Healthcare professionals’ main concern when buying uniforms is that they function properly on the job, take another look at all of the above points and you can see that these Scrubs are more than fit for purpose and function

Fashion, Fit and Fabric lead to the perfectly functioning Scrubs for all!

 

We are starting our Greys Anatomy by Barco collection with 4 staple items, 2 tops and 2 trousers;

Emma Scrub Top

Kim Scrub Pants

The Emma Top and Kim Scrub pants are from the Grey’s Anatomy by Barco Spandex Stretch range, made with a 4 way stretch fabric, designed to shape and flatter all body types whilst creating an ultra-comfortable feel

Evan Scrub Top

Evan Scrub Pants

The Evan Scrub set from the Grey’s Anatomy by Barco Classic range; like to keep is simple and classy? Then these Scrubs are for you. Still loaded with all the fantastic fabric features like moisture wicking and soil release

 

We hope you love the Grey’s Anatomy by Barco Scrubs as much as we do, and if you do we will be adding more to the collection soon! Here at Work in Style we are proud to be partnered with Barco Uniforms, not only do we offer the fantastic Grey’s Anatomy by Barco range, we also have Barco One and Barco Essentials Scrubs on offer, and don’t forget that you can finish off your brand new Uniforms with personalised embroidery, be it a logo or just your name, this extra personalization adds flare to your look and boosts your professionalism on the job

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A Look At Skechers Scrubs

At Work In Style we are constantly striving to improve our eco-footprint, scrubs are at the heart of what we do so recycled scrubs is something we are really passionate about – This is why we chose to stock Skechers Scrubs. Skechers may be known globally for their footwear but they have now expanded into the world of scrubs with the help of globally recognised scrub manufacturers Barco. Skechers are providing stylish, sporty and comfortable scrubs which are made with recycled fabrics and have an array of great features. Here, we will expand on all of the main features of the range and show you why recycled scrubs are the future!

Skechers Recycled Scrubs

All Skechers scrubs are made using materials made with recycled plastic bottles, preventing these bottles from going to landfill and ending up in our oceans. The fabric which contains recycled plastic is called rPet fabric, rPet fabric is made by turning plastic bottles into plastic chips, this is then turned to fibres, into yarn, and lastly, into the fabric many of us are wearing today, including Skechers workwear.

Skechers Structured Crossover SK0112 Scrubs

Skechers Structured Scrub SK0215 Pants

Each Skechers garment has 7 recycled plastic bottles used in its manufacturing, so just 1 scrub set from Skechers saves 14 plastic bottles from Landfill!

How Recycled Scrubs and Clothing Can Help Our Environment

Scientists estimate that by 2050 the volume of plastic in the ocean will be more than the volume of fish, they also estimate that almost 100% of seabirds will have ingested plastic by this time. We all have a responsibility to do what we can to stop this from happening and Barco and Skechers have together recycled over 17 million plastic water bottles since 2006 in the manufacturing of their scrubs.

Work in Style is working hard to lessen our impact on our planet and our oceans, and stocking Skechers and Barco recycled scrubs is just the start. We hope that we can help you with your eco journey by supplying these eco-friendly alternatives to you.

Key features of Skechers Scrubs

4-way stretch fabrics

To understand the 4-way stretch feature of the Skechers fabric, it is important to point out that there are 1 way, 2 way and 4-way stretch fabrics on the market.

  • 1-way stretch fabric will stretch from side to side, however, it will not recover.
  • 2-way stretch will stretch from side to side and will recover.
  • 4-way stretch fabrics will stretch both width and lengthways and will recover.

Wearing a 4-way stretch fabric, you will notice the difference in comfort and freedom of movement, which is why it is frequently used in activewear as it gives the wearer the freedom to make small and large movements without any negative impact on the fabric, making it great for the medical profession as it is durable for long and hectic shifts.

 

Skechers Vitality Scrub Top SK101

Skechers Vitality Scrub Pants SK202

Soil Release Technology

Soil release is a finished fabric which helps to prevent liquids and powders from absorbing into the fabric of Skechers clothes. The tension on the surface of the fabric is increased so that liquids and powders will sit on the surface of the garment, rather than sinking into the fibres. This can be particularly helpful in the Healthcare fields where spillages and stains are commonplace. Soil release technology also makes the cleaning of scrubs much easier at lower washing temperatures and increases the overall life span of your scrubs – just another Eco-friendly feature of these modern scrubs.

Moisture-Wicking Properties

The basic definition of ‘wicking’ is ‘acting to absorb or draw off liquid by capillary action’ which will give you a pretty good idea of what moisture-wicking achieves. Let’s look at this a little deeper.

Moisture-wicking works by quickly moving sweat to the outer surface of the fabric, this will quickly evaporate and dry off so that the fabric does not become saturated. The capillary action taking place is the movement of the liquid through the minute spaces in the fabric to reach the outer layer, where it can be evaporated.

The best fabrics for moisture-wicking technologies are Polyester and Nylon. Moisture-wicking is also a fantastic tool in regulating body temperature, cooling you down when you are too hot, and warming you up when you are too cold.

Cotton would be considered a ‘non-wicking’ fabric and cannot have moisture-wicking technologies applied to it so for maximum breathability and comfort, synthetic fabrics are ideal.

Other benefits found in Skechers Scrubs

  • Media loops
  • Side and vent detailing
  • Pockets
  • 60-degree wash
  • Sporty design
  • 12 Unique colours
  • Sizes XXS-5XL

Skechers Shoes

November saw Work in Style launch Skechers nurse shoes in 4 unique styles including the Skechers safety trainers, all designed to offer unique benefits and performance in the workplace. Read more about Skechers work shoes.

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What Size am I?

Finding the right size in uniforms can sometimes be hard, we like to think we have made it as easy as possible here at Work in Style to get the best quality and best fitting medical uniforms around. With personalised size guides for every brand and measuring videos, it’s almost impossible to order the wrong size, and even if you do end up with an ill-fitting set of scrubs we offer a free return service to get them refunded or exchanged for you asap!

With unique workwear from all over the world, we stock a variety of different brands, each of these brands will offer different products with different fits, this is why you will find a unique size chart for each brand (including our own Work in style brand) on every page;

We don’t use UK sizing, such as 10/12/14 on our uniforms as we find this type of sizing can be very unreliable and does change from brand to brand, therefore we ask you to use your measurements with our size guides, this ensures you are getting a fit personalised to you! We usually only need your Waist/Hip/Chest measurements, and once you know these they will come in handy for you to know when shopping elsewhere.

Have a look at our simple sizing video which will be a handy little guide in finding the size charts and taking your measurements

 

Need more help choosing the right Scrubs for you? Read our Ultimate guide to buying Scrubs

 

Are you a student? We also have a couple of measuring guides on our YouTube channel, these are created with University students who wear our Work in style uniforms in mind and will help you to ensure you are taking your measurements in the correct place, helping you to get stuck in on your placement asap!

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Dickies Balance

The Balance collection from Dickies Scrubs UK is a go-to scrubs range that ticks all the boxes. Dickies are, once again, delivering on trend details, a comfortable and flattering fit and in demand fabric and performance features. Male and Female styles are available in a variety of your favourite Scrub colours.

The Dickies Balance Scrubs offer signature styling and a 2 way stretch fabric for the ultimate comfort

All of the Dickies Scrubs can be washed at 60 Degrees

 

We have 3 of your favourite colours in stock and ready to order for next day delivery...

  

And 4 unique colours held at our distribution centre in Holland to order for delivery in 2-4 weeks...

   

 

Meet The Range…

 

Dickies Women's Scrubs

DKE870 V Neck Scrub Top

XXS-3XL

Fabric 77 Polyester / 20 Rayon / 5 Elastane Twill

Product details

A contemporary fit Dickies women’s scrub top with 2 patch pockets. Rib knit neckband and back panels. Bungee ID and badge loop and a shirttail hem with a 27” centre back length

 

Dickies Scrub Tops

DKE845 V neck Scrub top

XXS-3XL

Fabric 77 Polyester / 20 Rayon / 5 Elastane Twill

Product details

Men’s Scrub Dickies top (can also be used as Unisex) with 2 patch pockets, 1 chest pocket and pen slot on the right patch pocket. Rib knit neckband and side panels and back yoke with a centre back length of 30”

 

Dickies Cargo Pants for Women

DKE135 Mid Rise Cargo Trouser

XXS-3XL

Fabric 77 Polyester / 20 Rayon / 5 Elastane Twill

Product details

Dickies women's cargo pants with Rib knit covered elastic waistband and inside drawstring, 2 front patch pockets, 1 cargo pocket, 2 back pockets and 1 hidden zipper pocket. A mock fly zip and utility loop. Straight leg with a 15” Opening

 

Dickies Cargo Trousers

DKE220Mid Rise Zip Fly Trouser

XXS-3XL

Fabric 77 Polyester / 20 Rayon / 5 Elastane Twill

Product details

Dickies cargo trousers for men with an elastic waistband and inside drawstring, plus a zip fly with button closure. 2 Front patch pockets, 1 cargo pocket, 2 back pockets and 1 hidden zipper pocket with a straight leg and 16” Opening

 

 

Look out for the XTRA button on the product page and click to see our XTRA colours, which can be ordered firect from our supplier across the pond

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Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Scrubs for Healthcare Professionals

 

Did you know that 91% of plastic end up in our Oceans? Scientists estimate that by 2050 the volume of plastic in the ocean will be more than the volume of fish, they also estimate that almost 100% of seabirds will have ingested plastic by this time. And this is just drop in the Ocean of the environmental impact that plastic is having on our planet and eco-systems. It’s no secret that something needs to be done, by our Governments, by big Corporations and by us.

 

At Work In Style we are constantly striving to improve our eco-footprint, scrubs are at the heart of what we do so recycled scrubs is something we are really passionate about – This is why we chose to stock Skechers Scrubs & Barco One Scrubs. Both scrub brands are made by globally recognised scrub manufacturers Barco, who are providing comfortable, sporty and recycled stylish scrubs.

 

Barco One and Skechers scrubs are made using recycled plastic bottles, stopping them from going to landfill and ending up in our Ocean's! The fabric, which contains recycled plastic, is called rPet fabric, rPet fabric is made by turning plastic bottles into plastic chips, this is then turned to fibres, into yarn, and lastly, into the fabric many of us are wearing today. Barco One Scrubs use 5 recycled plastic bottles in every garment! 1 scrub set will save 10 plastic bottles from landfill Skechers Scrubs have gone a couple of steps further and use 7 recycled plastic bottles in every garment, that's 14 in a Scrub set!

 

Recycled Scrubs 

Using recycled plastics to make the fabrics does not equal a compromise in quality, Barco are one of the leaders of premium healthcare apparel in the Industry and the fabric boasts a great line-up of features including moisture wicking, 4 way stretch, thermo-regulation technology & quick shed technology. Skechers are in on the fabric technology action too with their scrubs featuring moisture wicking and soil release garments in their eco-friendly Skechers workwear.

 

Shop Recycled Scrubs Now

 


 


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A Guide To E & E Lab Coats

E&E Lab Coats is Work in Styles’ very own brand of high-quality lab coats for use in science and medicine. Beginning as Ashton Overalls, which was established in the early 60s in the small Derbyshire town of New Mills, in 1969 they became Eaton & Entwistle and because of demand on the business opened the second factory in Marple, manufacturing khaki coats & overalls under contract for the MOD & PO. In 1972 the factory in New Mills was closed down and the Marple site expanded. At this point, the company was renamed E&E Workwear Limited, and their association with lab coats came soon after with the commission of the original “Howie lab coat”.

E&E Lab Coats at Work In Style

Work in style purchased E&E in March 2019 and have continued to produce their main styles to the same specification using the same patterns and sewing methods that have been used since the late 70s.

The quality, style & fit have been a lasting favourite for Lab-based personnel and medical students for decades, so it was decided to continue with the exact same specification, why fix what isn’t broken? Now that you know the E&E brand, we would like to introduce you to its best-selling products.

The E&E Howie Lab Coat

The Howie lab coat is designed with safety in mind and is called such after a 1978 report commissioned by the UK department of Health and Social Security to codify standard clinical laboratory practices, chaired by J. W. Howie. Among the codified standards was protective clothing, with the type of wrap-around full coverage lab coat that had been in use in the UK for over a hundred years being nicknamed the "Howie-Style" coat to indicate its compliance with the provisions of this report.

It has buttons on the left flank, elasticated wrists, and a mandarin collar, and is quite similar to a chef's uniform. It is designed to minimize pathogen contact with street clothes.

 

Since adopting the Howie labcoat, Work in Style has expanded the range of colours available. We now stock 9 unique colours, which are great for distinguishing departments and job positions within your business, or just to add a little flair and style to your daily lab look. The coats are also available in a wide range of size, from 30”-54” chest

The Howie Lab Coat features:

  • One Jetted breast pocket
  • Two jetted hip pockets
  • Offset Nine stud fastening with broad underlay to avoid gaping
  • Knitted cuffs
  • Back darts
  • Poly/Cotton blend
  • 3 coat lengths

We also offer the Howie Science Lab Coat, boasting all the same great features as the regular Howie coat but without the jetted pockets. This style comes in white and is available in the same great range of sizes.

The Lab Coats

We offer a variety of lab coats for women, including our standard lab coat, our long-sleeved lab coat, and our short-sleeved lab coat. However, our standard lab coats can be ordered as men’s and ladies styles, available in crisp white in a wide range of sizes, these are a great basic lab coat to kit out a big team. With chest and waist pockets, concealed stud fastening, and a 42” length.

Men's Lab Coat

Women's Lab Coat

 

The Flame Retardant Lab Coat

Our Flame Retardant Lab Coat is made from Probanised cotton and is a must for anyone working with any flammable materials, especially work with pyrophoric, spontaneously combustible, or extremely flammable chemicals, as this presents a high potential for fire and burn risks. Use of a fire-retardant lab coat is required when handling pyrophoric chemicals outside of a glove box.

Our FR Lab coats come in White, 42” length, and sizes XS-2XL.

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Cherokee Scrubs Bestsellers

I’m sure you have heard of Cherokee workwear? They are the number 1 brand in the Medical workwear sector, and for good reason too; quality fashionable scrubs are at the heart of what they do. Work in style have been stocking Cherokee Workwear for 14 years and they have become a firm favourite with our customers.

Cherokee is always releasing new exciting designs and innovative fabrics, never with a compromise on quality, and this quality is what keeps our customer wearing Cherokee scrubs for years and years! Here, we want to remind you of the bestselling Cherokee favourites we have on our site – These scrubs are worn by a range of professionals – from Dentists and Vets to Doctors and Nurses in our beloved NHS

The Cherokee 4700 Scrub Top and 4200 Scrub Pants

Our best-selling scrub top throughout all of our stocked ranges, the Cherokee 4700 is an industry-standard! This is a firm favourite with many of our customers – A Unisex V neck scrub top made from 65% Polyester and 35% Cotton – The Poly-cotton blend means it is very easy to care for and will not crease easily. The soil release technology will also help with easy cleaning of your scrubs The 4700 top has 2 patch side pockets and an interior pocket, great for holding mobile phones or medical instruments.

The Side-seam vents will keep you cool and composed on those long shifts. With well over 20 colours to choose from, and available in sizes 2XS to 5XL – This option is a fantastic way to kit out your whole team in fashionable comfortable scrubs.

Cherokee 4700 Scrub Top

The Cherokee 4700 Scrub Top and 4200 Scrub Pants.

The Cherokee 4200 are an elasticated waist scrub trouser and are the most common match for the 4700 scrub top – same materials and same stylish and comfortable fit, same unisex fit. Available in 3 leg lengths. With 2 cargo style pockets, a mobile phone pocket and one outside scissor pocket, these trousers ensure that you have a space for all your trusty equipment whilst on shift.

The 4100 Scrub Pants Are A Great Alternative

Another great trouser option, this time with an adjustable webbed drawstring waist for extra comfort, is the Cherokee 4100 scrub pant! Again, these are the same materials and colourways so can be mix and matched with the 4700 and the rest of the Cherokee range. The 4100 have 1 back pocket, 1 cargo pocket and an inside pocket perfect for your mobile phone – available in 3 leg lengths; Short Regular and Tall – another winning scrub trouser in a unisex fit.

Cherokee 4100 Scrub Pants

The Cherokee 4100 Scrub Pants.

For a ladies fit, try the Cherokee 4801

Prefer a ladies fit scrub top? The Cherokee 4801 is our best-selling ladies scrub top. With an adjustable tie back this top is sure to fit perfectly and flatter your natural shape.

Cherokee 4801 Scrub Top

The Cherokee 4801 Ladies Scrub Top.

Cherokee Have Got You Covered With Maternity Scrubs - WW685 & WW220

The WW685 and WW220 Cherokee maternity scrubs are flattering and comfortable fitting scrubs which will see you through to full term. Order your pre-pregnancy size as these scrubs are designed to support and flatter your current size.

Cherokee WW685Cherokee WW220

The Cherokee WW685 and WW220 Maternity Scrubs.

Fabric Tech – Revolution Tech

Want a little extra protection on the job? The Revolution Tech range uses high-quality fabrics with antimicrobial properties and a fluid barrier. A best-seller in the Dentistry and Veterinary professions.

Remember that all Cherokee scrubs can be mix and matched for a perfect colour match – Shop our full range to find your perfect set of scrubs – and, as always, keep an eye out for new and innovative scrubs coming from Cherokee in the future!

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