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How Do Dickies 874's Fit?

How Dickies 874 Work Pants Fit: Your Ultimate Guide

When it comes to workwear, few names are as iconic as Dickies. It's a brand that we have stocked since the beginning, here at Urban Industry. The brand has been a staple in durable, stylish, and functional clothing for decades, and their 874 work pants have earned a reputation for being the perfect blend of practicality and style. But, how do these pants actually fit? And how should you style them for both work and casualwear? Whether you're eyeing them for a day at the office or going out on the weekend, understanding how Dickies 874 work pants fit is key to getting the most out of your purchase.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about these classic work trousers, including sizing tips, fabric details, care instructions, and how to wear them. Let’s jump in!

How Do Dickies 874 Work Pants Fit?

Before you commit to any pair of pants, fit is always the first question. The Dickies 874 work pants are famous for their loose, comfortable fit with a slightly tapered leg. Designed to sit comfortably at the waist, they offer plenty of room in the thighs and hips, which makes them perfect for those who need unrestricted movement. However, don’t expect a skinny or ultra-slim silhouette here. These pants lean toward a relaxed fit—ideal for both comfort and durability.

Size Guide:

  • Waist: Dickies 874 pants have a regular fit but can run small. If you prefer to wear them higher on the waist, as they were originally designed, it's best to stick with your usual size. However, for a more comfortable, baggier fit, we recommend sizing up by two sizes. For example if your usual waist size is 30 inches, opt for 32 inches. 
  • Length: The leg opening is generous and can be hemmed or left as is, depending on your style preference.
  • Fit Style: Straight-cut with a slight taper near the ankle—this gives them a modern look that works well in both casual and semi-formal settings.

What Are the Main Differences Between the 874 and 873 Pants?

If you’re torn between the Dickies 874 and Dickies 873 pants, here’s a quick breakdown of the main differences:

Features Dickies 874 Dickies 873
Fit

Relaxed, straight-leg

Slim, straight-leg fit

Fabric

65% polyester, 35% cotton

Same as 874

Leg Opening

Slight taper

More tapered from the knee down

Ideal Use

Workwear, casual, semi-formal

Workwear, casual, semi-formal

The 874 is ideal for those who prefer a looser fit, while the 873 offers a slimmer, straight-leg fit, giving it a more refined, tailored look. Take a look at our Urban Industry Dickies Work Pant Fit Guide to take an in depth comparison. 

Dickies 874 FAQ

1. What Are the Dickies 874 Pants Made Of?

When it comes to durability, the Dickies 874 pants are crafted from a polyester-cotton blend. This blend ensures that the pants are both tough enough for the worksite and soft enough for everyday wear. The material composition includes:

  • 65% Polyester: This makes the pants wrinkle-resistant, durable, and gives them that stiff structure that holds up well throughout the day.
  • 35% Cotton: This adds a bit of softness and breathability to the fabric, ensuring comfort during long hours of wear.

The blend also makes the pants easy to care for—just toss them in the washing machine and you’re good to go. Plus, this mix provides natural resistance to shrinking, which means they’ll maintain their fit even after multiple washes.

Something to note is that Dickies work pants do take a few wears and washes to soften them up. Due to the durable fabric they're made out of, when you first get them out of the bag, they are a bit stiff. However, Dickies state that: 

"To get rid of the stiffness of new Dickies, wash them with fabric softener. If you have a tumble dryer, dry them with a softening sheet. If you’re air-drying, hang them up and shake them every 20 minutes. Avoid radiator drying as this can make them stiff."

2. How Should I Wash Dickies 874 Pants? 

Caring for your Dickies 874 work pants is straightforward. Here’s a quick guide:

  • Machine wash on a cold cycle to preserve the colour and prevent shrinkage.
  • Tumble dry on a low heat or hang them up to dry for best results.
  • Avoid bleach as it can cause the fabric to weaken or discolour.
  • Iron on low heat if you prefer a crease-free look.

The polyester-cotton blend is relatively low-maintenance, so you don’t have to worry too much about fading or fabric damage.

3. Are Dickies 874 Pants Good for Outdoor Activities?

Absolutely! Thanks to their durable fabric and relaxed fit, Dickies 874 work pants are well-suited for outdoor activities, including hiking, construction work, and even weekend DIY projects. The poly-cotton blend offers enough flexibility for movement, while still maintaining the sturdy construction needed for physically demanding tasks.

A bonus? The pants come with a built-in crease that resists dirt and wear, which makes them perfect for getting down and dirty without worrying about looking scruffy.

If you're heading outdoors, pair your Dickies 874s with sturdy Danner Boots and a comfy jacket for a look that combines functionality with effortless style.

4. Can Dickies 874 Pants Be Worn for Both Casual and Formal Occasions?

Yes! The Dickies 874 work pants are surprisingly versatile. While they’re built for hard work, they’re also sharp enough to be worn for a casual office day or even for a night out. The relaxed yet neat silhouette strikes the perfect balance between rugged and polished.

  • Casual Look: Pair them with a graphic tee or a button-down shirt, or some trainers. This look is perfect for running errands, grabbing coffee, or hanging out with friends.
  • Semi-Formal Look: To elevate them for a more formal occasion, consider a button-up shirt and a blazer or a chore jacket. Add loafers or dress boots, and you’re all set for a smart-casual event or business casual workday.

5. Do I Need to Size Up?

Sizing is one of the trickier aspects when buying any pair of pants, and Dickies 874s are no exception. Do you need to size up?

Some say Dickies 874 pants fit true to size, while others recommend sizing up or down depending on your body type and preferences. Here’s the deal:

  • If you want your 874’s to sit high on the waist, you should buy your usual size.
  • If you want your 874’s to sit lower on the hips, you should consider going two sizes up. For example, if your usual size of 30 to 32 inches on the waist.

 

Ultimately, it’s all about how you want your pants to feel and fit!

 

For more on Dickies workwear check out our journal post on our General Dickies Work Pant Fit Guide. 

Still have questions? Feel free to drop us an email (mailorder@urbanindustry.co.uk) or check out our 874 Fit Guide Video for a closer look at the pants.