An apron is a protective garment tied or fastened over clothing to keep it clean and to shield the wearer from spills, splatters, and heat while cooking or serving food. Professional kitchen aprons are typically a bib-and-brace style in durable, washable fabric such as cotton or polyester, often with pockets for small tools; heavier leather or heat-resistant aprons are used for tasks like butchery or barbecue. Home cooks use lighter, often decorative aprons for the same protective purpose. Aprons are also part of some traditional dress, such as the Japanese happi coat worn by sushi chefs and street vendors.