The term “blue collar” dates back to the early 20th century. Workers in manual labor roles commonly wore durable, blue-colored shirts or uniforms made from denim or chambray. The color was practical—it helped hide grease, oil, and dirt accumulated during a workday. In contrast, “white collar” workers wore dress shirts and worked in clean, office settings.
Over time, “blue collar job” became shorthand for any role that involved physical labor, regardless of the uniform. It’s worth noting that the color distinction no longer strictly applies to clothing but remains a useful way to describe the type of work performed.
Today, the phrase still holds cultural weight. It symbolizes strength, reliability, and the everyday hustle that fuels our cities and towns. It also highlights the value of workers who often go unnoticed but are essential to our way of life.
