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Why we love this deal
Over a decade ago, before I met my chef husband, I thought all aprons were alike — simply a piece of fabric built to shield your body from the inevitable spatter of cooking, and far superior with pockets than without.
But that was before I was introduced to the culinary world, revealing the secrets of veterans like Marco Pierre White (Gordon Ramsey’s mentor) and Alton Brown. After watching many YouTube videos where these masters waxed philosophical about food, I noticed a theme: they were all wearing a very similar-looking apron.
I soon learned that the apron was made by Hedley and Bennett, revered in the culinary world for being the apron all the pros wear. My husband gifted me one that same year, and now it’s the only apron I use, and well worth the investment. This weekend, the iconic brand is offering up to 30% off during a rare Presidents Day sale, which allows you to see what the hype is all about, for less.
Hedley & Bennett Essential Apron, $67 (was $96) at Hedley & Bennett
Why do shoppers love it?
So what makes an apron perfect? Of course, function comes first (Hedley and Bennett also have the style part nailed down, but more on that later). The Essential Apron is made of 100% cotton bull denim and has two lap pockets on the front at waist height and one divided pocket on the breast. I find that the top pocket is the perfect place to tuck pens, while I usually have my phone and a spatula in the larger pockets. There’s also a utility loop on the right side, where I typically have a dishcloth so I can wipe up spills or dry my hands easily.
The neck strap is adjustable so you can tailor the fit, but my personal favorite feature is the extra-long waist straps, which allow you to tie your apron at the front instead of the back. As someone with a shoulder injury, this thoughtful touch means I never have to strain myself while I’m working on dinner.
Lastly, this is one good-looking apron. As I mentioned before, high-profile chefs like Alton Brown wear them. Brown even collaborated with Hedley and Bennett on one featuring his stamp of approval, so you know it’s the real deal. And you can even have your apron monogrammed or have your name embroidered on for an extra touch of class.
If you need any further proof that the Essential Apron is worth the investment, just look at the reviews. More than 4,000 shoppers have given it a five-star rating. One shopper wrote, “I bake and cook often. I’ve had at least five aprons that I would rotate over the last 21 years. There was always something wrong with them — had to iron the Anthropology one, a thrifted one was too thin, and an old apron from a past job was falling apart. I finally pulled the trigger on this one and can’t express how much joy it brings! So practical, durable, and beautiful.”
Details to know
- Material: 100% cotton bull denim.
- Sizes: One size.
- Features: One divided breast pocket, two lap pockets, utility loop, extra-long waist tie.
Another shopper wrote, “I am the owner of many H&B aprons. When I see one that catches my eye, I wait a few days to think about it before making a purchase that I might regret. Not this one. As soon as I saw it, I knew I had to have it. It’s just so beautiful!! This is one of my favorites.”
While the Essential is a classic and on sale, it’s worth noting that many of Hedley and Bennett’s other apron styles are a part of the sale, too.
Shop more deals
- Smock Florals, $103 (was $129) at Hedley & Bennett
- Pinafore Apron, $77 (was $110) at Hedley & Bennett
- Star Wars Crossback Apron, $72 (was $120) at Hedley & Bennett
Yes, this apron is an investment, and there are many cheaper options out there, which are fine, too. But if you’re serious about cooking and you want something that will last for years, it’s really worth the money.
Similar budget-friendly aprons
Afun Canvas Chef’s Apron, $15 (was $23) at Amazon
Toswever Apron, $12 (was $18) at Amazon
