How to Wear Overalls Without Looking Like a Farmer
Overalls, Really?!?
When I was in my 20’s and early 30’s I lived in, and lived for, a good pair of denim overalls. One of my favorites was a pair of size 16 from GAP kids I scored for $ 19.99, let’s just call that one of the benefits of being under 5’4″.
Then during my maternity years, overalls were a staple in the waxing and waning of my childbearing belly. 3 kids in 4 years and a 70 lb weight gain with each (yes, you read that right, scary but true) made them basically a necessity.
So, needless to say, overalls have a special place in my heart. Whenever I’d see them in a store I’d try, keyword here is TRY, to make them work. In the past they just make me feel like a wannabe teenage farmer – NOT the look I was going for – so I’d pass.
Kind of like the pair below. I posted it on my Instagram feed in March of 2016 – that’s when overalls were just starting to make their way on to the scene and into the stores. There was a hard pass on that pair, and those of you that followed me back then HATED them.
But, this year, We are LOVING them! For Real!
Recently, both Elana and I have been crushing on the whole overall, coverall, flight suit thing. They’re kind of like a jumpsuit, so it has the ease of all-in-one dressing. But it’s a bit tougher than one made of silk. So it gives that uncomplicated, effortless, je ne sais quoi vibe. AND it easily transitions from sporty to cocktail just with a change of accessories.
Before you say NO WAY… hear us out…
The RULES for pulling off overalls, coveralls and flight suits.
They’re just hitting the mainstream. Wearing a one-piece “utility” type suit is definitely for early adopters right now. But we are seeing it gain a lot of traction. Even if you’re not ready to pull the trigger, keep it on your radar. Kind of like how we told you about sock booties 3 years ago – we’re letting you know about it early so you can opt in when you’re ready.
DO NOT pair them with a plaid flannel and cowboy boots or you will feel like Old McDonald.
Make them look effortless and chic by wearing them with a heel (boot, sandal or pump – but a heel) and a slim top underneath. For the winter make it a turtleneck and boots like Hallie did above. And in the warmer weather a sleeveless ribbed tank, an old favorite that feels totally new again and pumps.
Transition them from day to night with accessories – flat sandals and a cross body bag for daytime, heels and a clutch for night.
If you want to wear them with sneakers, make sure to show some ankle. And also know it gives off a “younger” vibe. You can do it if you’re 40+ but just be mindful of the other accessories you’re wearing. Like don’t add a backpack to the mix or someone might ask if you want a juice box not a bloody mary.
My Favorite Overalls, Coveralls, and Flight Suits (also called Boilersuits)
Some Overall Street Style Inspo:
Image via Free People
Image via Abercrombie & Fitch
Image via Revolve
Are you feeling inspired? Did you wear overalls in the past? Think you’ll try them again? I honestly didn’t think I would, but I’m loving them!
Outfit details: Overalls run small, size up // Turtleneck // Boots run tts // Bag reversible and under $100