blue-collar vs. white-collar

blue collar vs. white collar: What’s the difference?

The term blue-collar is generally used in the context of jobs that involve manual labor—mechanics and warehouse workers are considered blue-collar workers, for example. In contrast, white-collar is generally used in the context of office work. The term blue-collar comes from the association of such workers with uniforms or special work clothing, in contrast to the business attire worn by white-collar workers.