How to wear dungarees (without looking like a nine year old) (2024)

From Kylie Jenner to Beyonce, and SJP to Taylor Swift, celebs just can't get enough of dungarees. With a distinct air of boyish insouciance, classic-cool and comfort, it's easy to see why. Once very much the preserve of farmers, painter decorators and small children thanks to sheer practicality, successfully pulling them off can be tricky. As a regular wearer of dungarees and a keen admirer of those who pull them off with aplomb, here are my top tips:
1. Firstly grooming is really important. Think freshly blow-dried hair, painted nails and you could try injecting a little extra glamour with a red lip (I happen to favour Mac's Ruby Woo which makes me feel polished and grown up).

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2. The right shoes and accessories are also key - wear with trainers and you could end up looking like you're ready for removal day. A low block heel, simple summer sandal or Chanel ballet flat all fit the bill and will successfully elevate the humble dungaree from utilitarian work-wear to wardrobe hero. It's also worth making a little more effort when it comes to jewellery - a simple pair of gold hoops are the perfect addition.
3. In essence dungarees are pretty unflattering so wearing anything voluminous underneath is a no-no. A skinny knit, tee or Victorian style blouse will all work well.

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4. Dungarees come in a huge amount of variations from unusual fabrics like silk and leather to flared and shorter styles. If you can, get your hands on a pair of vintage Tommy Hilfiger's to give a big nod to nineties cool.
5. Have fun styling them up. We spotted Vogue's Sarah Harris wearing a pair of navy dungarees tied at the waist with a crisp white cotton shirt tucked in and teamed with flat sandals. Good look.

Check out the best pairs to buy in store now...

How to wear dungarees (without looking like a nine year old) (2024)

FAQs

How to not look like a child in overalls? ›

If you really want to keep things grown-up-ish, add strapy sandals (or heeled espadrilles in the evening) and a straw hat and basket bag. Stay monochromatic… black and white always make things look a little more sophisticated, so a black or white tee with black accessories (think shoes, sunnies + purse) is an easy win!

How do you look good 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 unflattering? ›

In essence dungarees are pretty unflattering so wearing anything voluminous underneath is a no-no. A skinny knit, tee or Victorian style blouse will all work well. 4. Dungarees come in a huge amount of variations from unusual fabrics like silk and leather to flared and shorter styles.

How to make dungarees look smart? ›

When needing to be smarter, go for slim fitting black ones, pair with a statement heel, with a blouse or sharp shirt, casually throwing over a blazer of course. Try a pretty blouse underneath, it add that perfect feminine touch. Let the bib hang down, if you're one of the cool kids.

How do I stop looking like a little kid? ›

Avoid colors that tend to be worn by children, such as bubblegum pink. Nice cottons and denims, cashmere sweaters, silk shifts, and linen dresses are all good choices for people who want to look like they've got some life experience. Put away the polyester, rayon and stretch pants. Keep athletic wear for workouts.

What age do kids try to dress themselves? ›

Ages 18-Months to 2 Years Old

Many children, as young as 18-months to 2-years old, begin to show an interest in dressing themselves. This is in an effort to demonstrate their independence and mimic the actions and abilities of their parents.

What body shape do dungarees suit? ›

Petites and curvy women

Because dungarees stretch the whole length of the body (top and bottom) they are elongating and give the illusion of being taller and slimmer. They are therefore popular with petites and those wanting to disguise their tummy areas.

Are dungarees meant to be baggy? ›

Loose-fit (also known as Relaxed Fit or Baggy Fit) dungarees are for men who require a roomier or more comfortable fit and were the choice of Dexy's Midnight Runners in the 80's and clubbers in the 90's.

What tops look good under dungarees? ›

You can't go wrong with a crisp, white tee. But, if a collar is your style, opt for a polo shirt in a bold colour instead. How do you wear dungarees?

Do you wear anything under dungarees? ›

Dungarees are made up of trousers or a skirt at the bottom and braces at the top, which means that you would normally wear another garment underneath such as a T-shirt, a blouse or a jumper.

Do overalls make you look younger? ›

Overalls are a look that skews young, however, we say it's all about attitude and proper styling, so if you love 'em, rock 'em! We have some tips for doing it right if you're over 25. Wear them with heels. If you pair overalls with sneakers, you will look younger.

How do you not look like a farmer in overalls? ›

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.

What age should you stop dressing your child? ›

By 30 months, your child may want to select certain clothes on their own and start putting their belongings away. A low, wide dresser works well for this, or the bottom two or three drawers of a taller one.

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