Buying guide for best overalls for women
Overalls sport a classic look that’s charming and familiar. However, women’s overalls have evolved over time to be not only quaint and comfortable but stylish and accessible. What was once viewed as useful work attire is now an adorable outfit for a day out with friends, or simply doing chores around the house.
There are more options for women’s overalls than you might think. Women’s overalls are available in many styles, fabrics, colors, and lengths. As you begin your search for your ideal women’s overalls, you should narrow down your individual needs and style choices to make your purchasing decision easier.
How to buy the best women’s overalls
What are overalls?
Originally, overalls were designed as a pair of long trousers attached to a bib that covers the midsection and chest, with straps that run over the shoulders and down the back. Modern overalls follow this same style, but with varying pant lengths.
Women enjoy wearing overalls because of their unique look and comfort. They’re a great choice for events and outings any time of the year and can be worn casually or dressed up for a more elegant and professional look.
Materials
There are a variety of materials used to make women’s overalls, but the most common are denim, corduroy, chino, cotton/polyester blends, and rayon.
Classic overalls are made out of denim or corduroy, but newer styles are made from lighter, breathable materials like cotton and chino. The benefit of using cotton, chino, and polyester is that these materials are easier to dye, whereas denim is typically limited to blue, white, and black shades. These lighter materials allow a greater array of color options for women’s overalls.
Sizing and fit
Sizing for women’s overalls can be measured in standard dress sizes from 0 to 18, or from XS to XL. This depends on the brand, so check the size chart to ensure you get the best fit.
Your individual fit is based on your preferences, but generally speaking, your overalls should have a loose, relaxed fit. The straps should rest easily on your shoulders with the top of the bib resting somewhere between the breasts and collarbone. There should be enough slack that the inseam isn’t riding up, and you should have enough space to be able to move freely without any tightness.
Colors
Women’s overalls made from denim are typically shades of blue, gray, white, or black. Overalls made from lighter fabrics like cotton, chino, and polyester or rayon can be every color from neutral browns or beiges to bright blues and reds. Some overalls even have floral, geometric, or striped patterns.
DID YOU KNOW?
For a vintage look, pick up some overalls with flared legs. They’re not only comfortable but perfect for the next disco party you get invited to.
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Features of women’s overalls
Pant length
Traditional overalls have full pant lengths that fall just above the foot near the ankle. Modern overalls have varying lengths, including standard length, seven-eighths length, capris, bermuda shorts, and short-shorts. The length you choose for your overalls depends largely on personal preference and the climate in which you’ll be wearing them. Shorter overalls are comfortable for spring and summer, while longer overalls are great for autumn and winter.
Waistline
Women’s overalls have a distinct waistline, located where the top of the trousers connect to the bib. There are a few types of waistlines for overalls:
- Standard: Standard waistlines are simply a seam where you can see the trousers and bib meet. This waistline is simple and understated with no unique distinction.
- Belt loop: Many overalls waistlines are lined with belt loops, which are ideal for those who want to spice up their look with a nice belt.
- Elastic: Elastic waistlines on overalls are equipped with a loop of elastic contained in a ruche section of the material at the waist. Elastic waistlines are helpful because they’re stretchy and wearers don’t have to fiddle with any adjustments.
- Drawstring: Some waistlines feature drawstrings, allowing you to adjust the fit. Drawstrings are great for those who want to tailor the tightness of their waistline, and they can be very flattering.
Straps and buckle loops
The straps of overalls are simple to operate and are almost always adjustable. They’re sewn to the back of the overalls and the ends are equipped with buckle loops. The straps are slipped over the shoulders to the front, and the buckle loops are fastened and secured to the top of the bib.
Some overalls have straps that are sewn into both the back and the top of the bib, while others have tie string straps. Buckle loop fasteners, however, are a large part of the classic overalls style and are a feature of most denim or corduroy overalls.
Pockets
Many women’s overalls have pockets, but depending on the exact pair, the pockets can be placed in a variety of locations. Most pockets are in the trousers (one on each hip), with some pockets also located in the buttock area. Some overalls also feature one or two small breast pockets placed on the bib. Other overalls have no pockets at all and are more basic in their design.
Pull-on, zippers, or buttons
Women’s overalls can be put on in different ways, depending on how they’re designed. Some overalls are pull-on, meaning you simply slide through the top opening and pull the straps over your shoulders. Other overalls have buttons or zippers that line each side of the trousers near the hips. These are placed here for both practicality and style.
Pull-on overalls are quite convenient, as they’re easy to put on and take off. Overalls with zippers or buttons take slightly more time, but some users prefer them because of their appearance.
If you get cold while wearing your overalls, throw on a cropped sweater or jacket. The cropped style complements overalls, so you can stay warm without sacrificing style.
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How much do women’s overalls cost?
Inexpensive
The most affordable women’s overalls cost $15 to $50. These are made from thin, lower-quality fabrics and might have less durable buttons, buckles, and zippers. They vary in length, colors, and patterns.
Mid-range
Mid-range women’s overalls cost $50 to $85. Overalls in this price range are made from more durable materials like denim and corduroy and higher-quality cottons. They may have pockets and high-quality stitching, buttons, and zippers.
Expensive
The most expensive women’s overalls range from $90 to $150. These overalls come from well-known brand names and are usually full-length pants. They’re made from high-quality denim, corduroy, or chino cotton. They may feature bright colors or more intricate designs, but many stick to the traditional overalls look.
DID YOU KNOW?
Hang dry your women’s overalls as opposed to machine drying them. The high heat in the dryer can easily shrink or warp the material. Air drying your overalls in a well-ventilated area is the best way to preserve them.
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Tips
- Complete your outfit with the perfect pair of shoes. Pair your overalls with some sneakers or sandals for a casual, relaxed look. Wear a pair of boots or heels with your overalls for a boho chic style.
- Get stylish with a one-shoulder look. Wear your overalls with one of the straps hanging down off the shoulder. This is a creative twist and offers a laid-back look. You can also wear your overalls with both straps off the shoulders at your sides and the bib folded down. Roll the cuffs for a new look on warm days.
- Rolled cuffs are a fashionable look and allow extra airflow around the ankles on hot days. Diversify your overalls by rolling up the cuffs to show off your footwear and stay cool.
FAQ
Q. What do you wear under overalls?
A. You can wear anything underneath your overalls that keeps you comfortable. On the top, you can wear a bikini, bralette, camisole, tank top, short-sleeve or long-sleeve T-shirt. For bottoms, you might wear underwear, bathing suit bottoms, or a thin pair of athletic shorts.
Q. Are overalls supposed to be baggy?
A. No, overalls aren’t supposed to be baggy. They’re meant to have a relaxed fit that’s comfortable but not baggy or oversized. If your women’s overalls are baggy, consider sizing down or having them tailored.
Q. Are overalls the same as a jumpsuit?
A. Overalls are similar to jumpsuits but are not the same. Jumpsuits offer more coverage of the midsection and chest and often have short or long sleeves. Jumpsuits may also feature a looser, baggier, flowy style, whereas overalls typically have a straight leg fit.
