Are Dungarees Back in Fashion? (2024)

1. What are the Origins of Dungarees?

Read on to find out more about the origins of Dungarees or 'Bib-Overalls' as they're called in the States...

Where do Dungarees Come From?

There are various explanations as to the origins of the term ‘dungarees’. Some say it refers to the fabric which was originally produced in India as far back as the 17th century. This fabric was called ‘Dungri’ - a coarse, hard wearing fabric used to make work clothes. Gradually the cloth name "dungaree" came to denote a style of work clothes which consisted of a pair of trousers with a bib and adjustable straps over the shoulders.

Why were Dungarees Invented?

Dungarees were ideal for labourers as they were durable and comfortable often with reinforced knees and triple stitched seams. The practical styling with multiple pockets, hammer loops etc. facilitated the carrying of tools and eliminated the need for waist belts. Dungarees as a work garment grew in popularity particularly in the United States and they increased in popularity in the twentieth century with tradesmen and labouring men who worked in agriculture and industry.

Some women also embraced dungarees for workwear during the war years and young children have worn them for playwear since the mid-twentieth century.

What are Dungarees Called in America?

In the USA the term “Dungaree” usually refers to, what in the UK we call “jeans,” ie casual trousers made of denim, most often blue in colour. However in the USA trousers (pants) made of denim with a bib are called ‘Bib-overalls’ or more often just ‘Overalls’, even sometimes ‘Bib-and-Brace Overalls’.

2. When were Dungarees Popular?

Read on to find out more about the eras of peak Dungaree popularity!

Dungarees in the 1960’s and 1970’s

In the 1960’s and 1970’s denim and blue jeans were ‘all the rage’, as was unisex clothing, so dungarees were embraced by young men and women, especially by college students in America. Apart from blue denim, dungarees made from corduroy and colourful cotton were popular as were those dungarees with the flared leg style of the sixties and early seventies.

Dungarees in the 1980’s

In the eighties dungarees and bib-overalls were essential fashion wear for everyone from Princess Diana to the guys from boyband New Kids on the Block. These were the days of oversized overalls, oversized shirts and big hair!

It's impossible to mention the eighties dungaree look without mentioning Dexy’s Midnight Runners. They styled their distressed denim uber baggy dungarees cinched at the waist with a heavy leather belt, with neckerchiefs and tam o’ shanter hats for guys and girls alike. Take a look at the video for their biggest hit ‘Come on Eileen’ and admire this blast from the past!

Dungarees in the 1990’s

Grunge and minimalism were major fashion styles in the nineties as well as dungarees which were awesome whether you rocked them with one strap or both straps down! No longer just for farmers and tradesmen, the ’90s embraced dungarees as a casual and comfortable wardrobe staple. If you want to rock dungarees in pure ’90s style, team a pair of classic blue denim dungarees with a crop top and your favourite sneaks.

3. Are Dungarees in Fashion in 2020?

It would appear so! According to Vogue ‘dungarees are making a big fashion comeback, and have become the number one must-have of the season’ for Summer 2020.

In our experience at Dungarees-online, in 2020 women, men and kids of all ages love the look of the all-in-one garment that can be styled in so many different ways.

If you want some 2020 Dungaree styling advice check out this video on YouTube for some tips on ‘How to wear Overalls & for Summer 2020’

Dungarees have evolved over the years and in 2020 there are a vast range of colours and styles to choose from. You can stick with traditional blue denim bib-overalls or try the new wide leg styles, cord dungarees or even embrace your inner Bohemian with some colourful hippy boho harem pants style dungarees.

If you don’t have at least one pair of dungarees in your wardrobe then check out the range of bib-overalls at Dungarees online.

4. What Types of Dungarees are Currently Available?

There are so many styles of dungaree out there for ladies, men, teens, boys and girls which include a mixture of the following characteristics:

Different fits of Dungarees

Regular fit (a comfortable but not baggy fit with a straight leg), loose/baggy fit (a relaxed fit with plenty of room), skinny fit (close fit with a narrow leg and restricted leg opening – they often have some stretch so you can get them over your feet!), carrot fit (Carrot Fit is exactly like the shape of a carrot, where it is loose at the crotch and then slimmer and fitter at the calves), wide leg (wide from the thigh to the hem, culotte style (cut with full legs to resemble a skirt).

Are Dungarees Back in Fashion? (1)

Different Dungaree Leg Shape

Straight, flared, narrow leg, wide leg, drainpipe, roll-up leg with tabs.

Different Bib Configurations

Narrow bib, wide bib, detachable bib, bib with zip pocket, bib with button pocket, bib with no pocket, zip front bib, button front bib.

Different Fastenings

Traditional both side button fastening, double row of button fastening or elasticated sides on maternity dungarees, one or both side zip fastening

Different Pocket Styles

Classic 5 pocket style (two front pockets, two back pockets and a bib pocket), dungarees with cargo pockets on legs, dungarees with rule pocket on leg – mainly found in work dungarees

Different Ways of Tying Dungaree Straps

Traditional buckle and clip fastening, D ring, knot tie, adjustable button strap.

Different Types of Fabric

Traditional 10oz blue denim, lightweight denim, organic cotton, destroyed/distressed denim, cotton duck, black denim, corduroy, cotton twill, cotton jersey, linen, lyocell.

Are Dungarees Back in Fashion? (2)

Dungarees for Different Purposes

Fashion, comfort, leisure, maternity, workwear, gardening and DIY, kids’ playwear, cosplay/fancy dress, have we missed any?

5. Dungarees – Where is the Best Place to Buy them?

Obviously, there are High Street shops who sell dungarees when they are popular, but if you want a go-to dungaree specialist with a large range of sizes and styles you may want to look online. Buying dungarees and overalls online is very easy and convenient – you can compare lots of styles and price points to find your perfect pair of dungarees and then have them delivered right to your door!

Are Dungarees Back in Fashion? (3)

Check out the range of dungarees from Dungarees Online who have had an online store since 2006 – they not only stock a large range of traditional dungarees for men, women and children (from brands such as Carhartt, Dickies and Uskees) but also have a range of fashion and leisure dungarees, dungaree shorts, dungaree dresses, jumpsuits and cool denim aprons! If you want to keep up with all of the latest styles of dungarees and special offers then why not sign up for the newsletter on the Dungarees Online website.

Are Dungarees Back in Fashion? (2024)

FAQs

Are dungarees in fashion 2023? ›

In the early 2010s, fashion trendsetter Alexa Chung wore some dungarees. They instantly became cool again. And as of 2023, they still are.

Are jean overalls in style 2023? ›

Denim is a versatile fabric, and you can expect to find other types of denim clothing trending in 2023 fashion styles. For example, try a denim skirt or a pair of baggy denim overalls to stay in style.

Are dungarees back in fashion? ›

Dungarees, overalls, strappy little jumpsuit things — whatever you want to call 'em, this classic denim staple is indeed trending for summer 2022.

Can over 40s wear dungarees? ›

Of Course You Can Wear Dungarees (Regardless Of Your Age, Height And Shape)

What is out of style for 2023? ›

Are high waisted pants out of style 2023? High waist pants are out of fashion for spring 2023 – especially the carrot pants, paper bag pants and palazzo pants. And high waisted pants will be out of style for fall winter 2023/24, too. In fact, the high waist pants were not seen on the fall winter 2023/24 runways.

Can 60 year olds wear dungarees? ›

Everyone can wear dungarees, its a mindset! Many believe that Dungarees have an age limit assocaited to them, and are often linked to child connotations. Dungas' have been in my wardrobe for as long as I can remember. My favourite pair have to be my distressed boyfriend fit Calvins.

Can I still wear skinny jeans in 2023? ›

The Key to Style Skinny Jeans in 2023: Keep it Classic. It may seem counterintuitive, but the key to making skinny jeans feel modern in 2023 is to style them in a very classic manner. Think of looks you previously did with ankle jeans, how nothing was too long, too tight, too clingy.

What is the trend in denim in 2024? ›

The upcoming Spring/Summer 2024 season sees denim as the predominant trend which includes bold colours and greencast dyeing, upcycling processes, adorned denim, stone-inspired washes and sun-faded hues with natural overdyes as the defining factors.

Are dungarees unflattering? ›

For many though, especially those with curvier frames, dungarees seem childish and more importantly, unflattering. They are not the easiest option for those with larger busts, and often tend to emphasise the stomach area.

Why do Americans wear dungarees? ›

Initially created to serve as protective clothing during physically demanding work, they have since also become a fashion garment. Many high-fashion brands have released their own spin on overalls. They have been recommended as suitable wear for women whose body is changing after recently giving birth.

Who wears dungarees? ›

Dungarees have stood the test of time from a simple piece of 17th-century cloth to the utilitarian and ultra cool garment worn by everyone from royalty to railroad workers. If you don't have at least one pair of these wardrobe staples then check out our range online and in store.

Can a 60 year old woman wear denim overalls? ›

The consensus was that women over 50 are not too old to wear overalls. Most people had the opinion that you should be able to wear what you want but there were also many complimentary opinions. One man even said if his wife wore overalls, he'd be “all over her”! Overalls make me happy!

Can a 60 year old wear denim overalls? ›

There is no age limit for wearing overall but still there are some tips which you can follow for better appearance. If you are over 25 then wear them with heels to look modern. If you pair overalls with sneakers, you will look younger.

What is the fashion color of the year 2023? ›

Viva Magenta is brave and fearless, and a pulsating color whose exuberance promotes a joyous and optimistic celebration, writing a new narrative. This year's Color of the Year is powerful and empowering.

Is 90s fashion coming back? ›

The 90s fashion trend was defined by elements that emboldened the look and gave a carefree outlook to the wearer. Elements like graphic tees, ripped jeans, bike shorts, leather jackets, and slip dresses and materials such as velvet are all set to make a comeback in 2023.

What should a seventy year old woman wear? ›

In your 70s, it's a good rule of thumb to avoid looking too prim, too girly, or preppy. However, it's the perfect time to experiment with arty styles like tailored sweater coats, wide-leg pants, unusual clutches, and colorful patterns.

Can a 70 year old woman wear jeans? ›

En español | EAre you ever too old to wear jeans? That question has been popping up on social media lately, so let's shout out a firm "No!" Choose jeans with the right fit, fabric, wash and proportions for your body, and then wear them in a contemporary way that suits your style and preferences.

Can a 70 year old woman wear leggings? ›

Leggings are one of the most disputed items of clothing for older women. Some of us over 50 swear by their leggings, while others are appalled by the fact that older women still wear leggings. I say, to each her own. There is no right or wrong answer to wearing leggings after 50.

Is there an age to stop wearing jeans? ›

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – How old is too old to wear jeans? According to a new study you should ditch the denim after age 53. A British survey by CollectPlus says that after age 53 you should give wearing jeans.

Are skinny jeans really going out? ›

Yes, they are here to stay!

If you're looking for a timeless denim style that you can wear year after year, skinny jeans are a great option. They are versatile and easy to style, so you really can't go wrong with them.

What is the trend pants in 2023? ›

Cargo pants are the look of choice for 2023 with baggy legs, long hems, and maximum pocket space. While the trend has definite early '00s roots, the waists are higher than their super low-rise counterparts at the turn of millennium—which comes as welcome news to most.

What Colour jeans are in fashion 2023? ›

Style Notes: If you invested in a pair of trending wide-leg jeans in 2022, rest assured this is no flash-in-the-pan buy; wide-leg denim is here to stay for 2023. The clue is in the name. Look for classic shades of blue to make this silhouette feel its most refined.

What is the most classic style of jeans? ›

As for a classic pick, straight-leg jeans never fail.

What decade of fashion is coming back 2023? ›

Drop-Waist Dresses and Skirts

Heads up: The '80s are coming back and in a major way. You may think of drop-waist skirts as a thing of the past, but they're about to make a return in 2023—as proven by Carolina Herrera and Sandy Liang (and they're looking good). Honestly, we can't say we aren't excited about this one.

What are the design trends for summer 2023? ›

PASTEL HUES: Pastel shades are on trend for the spring/summer 2023 season. Colors like light pink, baby blue, soft yellow, and mint green are great options to bring a soft and delicate touch to your interior.

Are dark or light jeans in style 2023? ›

2023 is all about trends making a comeback and this includes dark wash denim, which is regaining popularity. The last few years have been all about lighter washes reminiscent of the '80s and '90s, but now they're making room for their darker counterpart.

How do you look chic in dungarees? ›

Forget the plain white T-shirt, and think out of the box when it comes to styling your dungarees. If you're a double denim-devotee, layer your pair over the top of a shirt in a contrasting shade, or you could even wear your dungarees with a white ribbed tank top and Western boots for maximum country-girl vibes.

Are dungarees timeless? ›

Dungarees have a classic and timeless style, so they never go out of fashion. They are a staple item in many children's wardrobes and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

What dress style hides belly fat? ›

Hide your tummy with dresses with prints

Choosing a patterned dress is a great way to disguise a belly because the patterns confuse the eye, drawing the gaze up, down and around, and away from any belly bulge. The print and ruching on the faux wrap dress (below) could help to disguise a little bit of a tummy.

What do Americans call dungarees? ›

Where are different garments called 'dungarees'? (What are usually referred to in British English as dungarees are known as bib overalls or simply overalls in American English.)

What is the US word for dungarees? ›

​Britisha piece of clothing consisting of trousers and a square piece of cloth that fits over your chest, held up by narrow pieces of cloth over your shoulders. The American word is overalls.

Why do old people say dungarees? ›

It derives from a Hindi word, "dugri," denoting a heavy, coarse and durable cotton twill woven from colored yarns. "Dungaree" eventually came to refer specifically to blue denim, and trousers made from blue denim have been called "dungarees" since the late 1800s.

Who can pull off dungarees? ›

Here are a few tips on how to choose and wear your dungarees.
  • Broad shoulders. If you have broad shoulders, dungarees will work well on you and as the bib part really draws the eye inwards to the centre of your body.
  • Narrow shoulders. ...
  • Large busts.
Feb 6, 2021

When did dungarees go away? ›

Dungarees, a denim, bell-bottomed working uniform with a blue over shirt existed in the Navy from 1913 to 1999. At the time, they were well suited to naval environments due to their simple and durable design.

What shoes do you wear with dungarees? ›

What shoes go with dungarees? Canvas pumps or classic-cut leather trainers in white or neutral tones are perfect for pairing with your dungarees for a relaxed look. You could also go for leather sandals and rolled-up legs for a casual summer festival vibe or dress up with heels for a high-fashion look.

How do I not dress frumpy in my 50s? ›

If your pants or jeans are too tight, they will cause muffin top. If your dress or top is too large, it will only make you look shapeless, and yes, your outfit frumpy. Choose clothes that skim your figure, that are neither too tight or too loose. I buy jeans that are one size larger than the sizing chart tells me too.

How do I not dress frumpy at 50? ›

Just because we're getting older doesn't mean we have to lose our sense of style and start dressing frumpy.
...
Tips for How to Not Look Frumpy
  1. Avoid Baggy or Ill-Fitting Clothing. ...
  2. Experiment With Different Styles and Trends and Avoid Looking Frumpy. ...
  3. Add color to your wardrobe.
Jan 13, 2023

Can you wear overalls with a belly? ›

Overalls are not only trendy, they are the perfect way to make your tummy look flatter. A soft shirt paired with a structured dress adds interesting texture to the outfit. The type of dress matters too – one with straps, or a bustier dress, works best.

Should a 65 year old woman wear skinny jeans? ›

Skinny Jeans – We say YES to skinny jeans at any age. Choose skinny jeans that are flattering to an older woman's figure like these from NYDJ. Cold Shoulder Tops – Uncover part of your shoulders without going sleeveless. This cute top looks great on women of any age.

Should 80 year old woman wear jeans? ›

She's also right on board to proclaim high and wide that we are never too old to wear jeans! For a casual, everyday look go for medium-colored jeans and pair them with matching accessories. Darker denim can be worn to semi-formal events by pairing them with elegant and chic items.

Can 65 year old wear dress above knee? ›

Knee length

Right at the knee is typically the most flattering dress length for women over 60. I suggest opting for a dress that's either JUST above the knee (just enough so you can see your knee) or just below. This will create the illusion of length on your frame while keeping it age-appropriate!

Can a 70 year old wear a jumpsuit? ›

But I worry that if I wear one now I'll look silly. Help! A: You're never too old to wear a jumpsuit — as long as it's not crazy tight and doesn't make you look like you're auditioning for a Catwoman role.

Is 70 too old to wear a denim jacket? ›

No age is too old to wear a denim jacket if that is what one wishes to do. If it serves the purpose of protection from the elements, by all means, wear it.

Did people wear overalls in the 70? ›

In the mid- to late-seventies, a popular look for young girls were overalls (with flared pant legs, of course). These came in bright colors or patterns and were often worn with frilly blouses underneath (Fig. 34).

What is the fashion for summer 2023? ›

From scaly, mermaid-tinged sequins at Chloé to pom-pom leather tendrils at Bottega Veneta and frissons of feathers at Chanel, amped-up embellishment signals glamour is afoot for 2023, despite the gloomy forecasts.

What are the jean trends for summer 2023? ›

In 2023, we're seeing a rise in popularity of the ankle crop and distressed treatments that range from unfinished hems to redone patchwork. Pleated trousers, dramatically pooling wide-legs, and formfitting bootcut flares are also everywhere, with these more standout shapes hailing from the '70s, '80s, and '90s.

Are leggings out of style 2023? ›

Are tunics and leggings still in style or is this one of out of style trends for 2023? Tunic and leggings are not coming back in style for 2023. 2023 is the year of long slinky tops and not tunics.

Are skinny jeans coming back in 2023? ›

Sorry, Gen Z: Skinny Jeans Are Officially Back

But three-quarters of the way through Fashion Month Fall/Winter 2023, it seems the pendulum is swinging back.

Are culottes still in fashion 2023? ›

No matter if you choose raised soft trousers like knitted flares and flowy culottes or oversized, fleece-lined joggers, casual bottoms will still be popular in 2023, largely due to the persistence of hybrid work settings.

What is the big color for 2023? ›

Digital Lavender, Luscious Red, Sundial, Tranquil Blue and Verdigris are the color names for 2023. Who chooses the names of the new colors? Names are selected by the WGSN and Coloro color team, before being verified by our in-house Equality Vision Team to ensure a proper translation on a global scale.

What is 2023s color? ›

The Pantone Color Institute named Viva Magenta as its official color of the year for 2023 for its joyous yet powerful nature.

What is the color of the dress for 2023? ›

Introducing Digital Lavender as our Colour of the Year for 2023.

What are the hottest beauty trends for 2023? ›

In 2023, expect a shift towards bold shades,” says Tinu. “Rather than an all-over hue, I predict that brights will be used to outline and accent nails, taking a basic manicure to the next level, with sharp edges and negative space,” she says. "Shades to look out for will include blue, purple, yellow and orange."

What is instyle for spring 2023? ›

For spring 2023, there is plenty to add to the mix. Much like the rest of the seasons, spring fashion comes with its own staples — maxi skirts and tank tops, flowy blouses, and light-wash denim — and there are only so many combinations you can make with the same pieces from year to year.

What are the fashion color trends for fall 2023? ›

For Fall 2023, the company predicts bold hues like Rose Violet (a red-tinged fuchsia), Red Orange (a vibrant, fiery orange), Red Dahlia (a deep red), High Visibility (an almost-neon yellow), Kohlrabi (a playful, vivid green) and Viva Magenta (the 2023 Color of the Year) will take over our wardrobes, per WWD.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Barbera Armstrong

Last Updated:

Views: 6336

Rating: 4.9 / 5 (59 voted)

Reviews: 82% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Barbera Armstrong

Birthday: 1992-09-12

Address: Suite 993 99852 Daugherty Causeway, Ritchiehaven, VT 49630

Phone: +5026838435397

Job: National Engineer

Hobby: Listening to music, Board games, Photography, Ice skating, LARPing, Kite flying, Rugby

Introduction: My name is Barbera Armstrong, I am a lovely, delightful, cooperative, funny, enchanting, vivacious, tender person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.