The Best (Non-Boring) Aprons for Every Kind of Cook

Morgan Thompson/Francky Knapp

As a passionate home cook but admittedly lazy person, aprons have always felt like an afterthought. Frying tofu? Simmering a red sauce? The best apron subs, it seemed, were just my “whatever” clothes; most splatter-inducing recipes were executed in either a forgettable T-shirt, or a Temu-level, apron I was gifted as a gag featuring a suspiciously jolly cat in a beret.

Aside from Cursed Temu Cat, my first real introduction to cool, quality aprons came via a Hedley & Bennett drop with the Grateful Dead. A few years ago, I was served Instagram ads of the collaboration and couldn’t resist the idea of baking in the company of a hundred dancing bears. (Once a college era Deadhead, always a Deadhead.)

Hedley & Bennett Grateful Dead tie dye bears apron

• $95
• $119
• 20% off

Prices taken at time of publishing.

• $95 at Hedley & Bennett

Aside from the apron’s many Jerry-worthy details, a chef friend assured me that Hedley & Bennett also just “made a nice apron,” which matters when you’re shelling out one-hundred-ish dollars. Years later, the cotton twill fabric is still thick and durable, but never feels stiff and boxy like some other aprons I’ve used. It almost feels like protective loungewear (if loungewear had tool pockets, which would maybe be kind of great?), and it actually feels softer with every wash.

I’m a staunch believer that there is an apron for everyone, from the slightly lazy, hungry home cook to the most discerning of industry professionals. What may have once been a far more singular symbol of domesticity has since evolved into an expression of creativity that transcends mere functionality. Don’t let the swathes of sauceless, workwear-inspired aprons out there dissuade you; there are plenty of non-boring aprons on the horizon, from metallic stunners to folkloric aprons worthy of Strega Nona.

The best aprons under $50

Folkculture striped apron

• $10

Prices taken at time of publishing.

This adjustable, striped apron costs less than most avocado toasts, and offers a more contemporary, graphic take on the traditional striped apron. Buy one for yourself, and one as a stocking stuffer.

• $10 at Amazon