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.

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.

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.

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;

• Skechers by Barco Scrubs
• Barco Scrubs
• Cherokee
• Dickies
• Work in style
• E&E Lab coats
• Uneek
• Benchmark

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!

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!

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

5 Reasons to buy your medical uniforms from Work in Style

How hard can purchasing a medical uniform be? The decision can be unnerving, considering the purpose of the uniform is to provide you with a professional identity, boosting confidence while giving you protection from contaminants. Choosing the right gear is imperative for all healthcare workers. That is why here at Work in Style, we are committed to providing you with the best medical gear by offering you a platform to purchase them from the best manufacturers.

Buying with Work in Style is an entirely beneficial step as it gives you an edge through:

Higher-end trusted brands that provide the best quality uniforms

The number one concern when getting your medical gear is the quality. Otherwise, what is the point of spending your hard earned cash on uniforms and scrubs if they won't serve their purpose, which is mainly to protect you and the patient while making you easily identifiable?

The medical uniforms available on the site are from top-tier manufactures such as the Cherokee, Dickies, Barco and Skechers. They have been in the industry for years and have immense expertise. The uniforms are comfortable, customizable, and available at very affordable prices. The site provides you with a variety of options to select from, depending on your needs.

Sustainable/Eco friendly Scrubs

As a savvy and productive healthcare worker, your patients have entrusted you with their lives, and you continue to change and save them as your everyday calling. However, you may save humanity, but what happens when there is no green earth to go back to?

Work in Style provides you with a variety of sustainable, eco-friendly scrubs that you can purchase in a bid to reduce your carbon print. Skechers and Barco manufacture scrubs made from recycled plastic bottles, instead of having them filling up landfills and oceans, leading to ecosystem degradations.

Are scrubs made from recycled plastic comfortable? Yes, you do not literally wear the hard plastic as is, of course, but instead, plastic chips obtained from the plastic bottles are converted into soft fabric used to make the scrubs. The scrubs have the following advantages:

4-way stretch fabrics- These can fully stretch and recover, offering you comfort and freedom of movement.
Moisture-wicking- This provides you comfort through increased breathability that helps you regulate body temperature as the sweat wicks off fast.
Soil release technology- This helps to keep spillages and stains from absorbing into the fabrics; hence easier cleaning processes and increased durability for the scrubs.

Exceptional customer service

Shopping online can be daunting and especially with recyclable options to which not everyone is familiar. Work in style has a dedicated team of consultants at your beck and call for whatever concerns you may have. Whether you need to inquire about your size options or make a bulk purchase but do not know how best to do it, customer support will opportunely help you. Do not hesitate to reach the team through the contact number or email address shown at the bottom of this blog. You can also connect with the platform through their Social media accounts such as Facebook, Instagram & LinkedIn

Embroidery/personalization of scrubs

We have got you covered if you are looking to personalize your workwear. Get your uniform customized by our professionals by adding embroidery to your online order and filling the embroidery origination form. We can offer a range of Texts/colours to suit your needs. We can even offer digitization of your company logos for the ultimate personalization.

You will receive your order within 7 days of the embroidery being approved.

Need more information on Embroidery - see our Embroidery page here, or give us a call to discuss

Free and fast delivery

Thanks to the variety of medical uniforms available, at different prices and with different features, you can choose whichever best suits your needs. The process is simple and only requires you to make the purchases online with simple clicks using your phone or computer.

We take payment by Debit/Credit card and PayPal. Enjoy a standard delivery fee of £5.00 if you are in UK Mainland and free delivery for orders worth over £50.

We can offer Next day delivery for £7.50 – Just place your order before 1pm Monday to Thursday to receive the goods next day.

Overseas shipping to Europe is also available at a fixed fee of £30. In cases where you need to pay the customs fees, the support team will duly notify you. We provide tracking details from our Delivery partner – DPD, these will be emailed/Text to you once the goods have been dispatched