TRENDS, AS EVEN the most casual observer of fashion knows, come and go. Less obvious are more subtle variations within trends, like changes in nomenclature. Take the “utility” trend many labels—including Salvatore Ferragamo, Derek Lam, Fendi, Hermès, Loewe, Khaite and Giuliva Heritage—pursued for this coming spring. Once, this would have been known as “safari.” After the release of “Out of Africa,” in late 1985, in which Meryl Streep wore pocketed, humidity-friendly safari looks typical of the early 1900s, fashion publications made references to “colonial chic” and “primitive prints.” That kind of condescension is no...