Of all the poor decisions we can make in life, wearing overalls will never be one of them. Occupying the closets of fashionistas and farmers alike, they are the sartorial equivalent of minding your business. They don’t overpromise. They don’t mislead. As an all-in-one outfit, they reliably fulfill their purpose to make getting dressed much easier. And though often met with trepidation, their staying power is unmatched.
They were controversially trending last summer. In the fall, they were named one of the season’s most surprisingly “sought-after” wardrobe items. As we re-enter a new season, overalls — in their many forms — are yet again in fashion’s favour, as evidenced in recent celeb street style. Kourtney Kardashian styled a bright white pair with a graphic tee and edgy dark eye makeup. Alicia Keys wore a midriff-baring low-slung iteration with a bedazzled bralette for a party-going effect. Sydney Sweeney toned hers down with running shoes and a gingham Miu Miu baseball cap, like a true L.A. wellness girlie. Overalls even made it to the 2023 Cannes Film Festival!
So why are they still so often seen as frumpy? Maybe it’s tied to their association with working in a hot, sunny field and making crafts in kindergarten. Perhaps it goes back to the oft-repeated notion that there is such a thing as too much denim. (The Canadian tuxedo will never escape the shackles of that debate.) Or possibly — hear us out — nay-sayers just don’t get overalls.