Overalls appear to be one of the few garments that transcends gender, age, and background. From mechanics to toddlers of the OshKosh B’gosh era, it seems all of us have, at one point, had this article of clothing in our closet.
What makes overalls so popular? For one, it’s the versatility of the garment itself and the simple construction that hasn’t changed much since 1870, when the bib overall was perfected by Levi Strauss. Since then, only minor updates to fabric and fit separate the modern overall from its predecessors.
But it also comes down to the ease in which overalls can be styles. Because of their one-piece construction, it’s easy to throw on a light sweater or button-down under one and head right out the door. This no-brainer style outfit makes it an extremely popular article of clothing that creates an unintentional uniform with minimal effort.
With its roots in workwear and its current streetstyle popularity, the overall has gained a resurgence in the last few years. It’s this newfound popularity which has produced a veritable Cambrian explosion of options to choose from, including fabric choices outside of the standard denim, and more comfortable and upgraded silhouettes for the modern wearer.
The Best Overalls For Men
Dickies Rinsed Denim Double Knee Bib Overalls
Keeping its working-class roots, the Dickies Denim Bib Overalls are a great alternative to more rugged workwear fabrics. The dark denim is a toned-down style while the contrast stitching and double knee detailing gives it a bit of eye candy for the wearer.
Carhartt Relaxed Fit Duck Bib Overalls
One of the most ubiquitous options when it comes to overalls, Carhartt’s duck canvas overalls are as popular in rural Pennsylvania, where I live, as they are in Brooklyn. With its relaxed fit and sturdy fabric choice, it adds the perfect note of casual ruggedness to any wardrobe.
H&M Cream Overalls
If you’re looking to integrate overalls into your wardrobe but don’t want to break the bank, H&M has a great selection season after season to choose from. These cream twill overalls elevate the fashionable elements of the garment while not being too “flashy” for the casual wearer.
Lululemon Lab Black Overalls
This is a garment that’s meant to be worn and lived in. Lululemon’s overalls are made from a technical, water-repellent fabric that makes them the perfect option for someone on the move and who is looking for a one-and-done outfit that can keep up with his lifestyle.
Swoveralls
Since the pandemic, I’m sure many of my fellow fashion compatriots have been integrating sweats into their wardrobe more and more. Swoveralls are a comfortable alternative to heavier denim or canvas material for all-day comfort, whether lounging at home or out on the town.
Ralph Lauren RRL Repaired Twill Overalls
Leave it to Ralph Lauren’s RRL line to elevate the simple overall to new heights. Their repaired twill overall is the perfect balance between classic Americana and contemporary design. With a focus on heritage and construction, no detail is left behind for RRL’s best-selling overall.
Levi’s Red Tab Overalls
The legend. The original. The king. No one does denim better than Levi’s, so of course they’d have a place on this list. The classic medium wash of these overalls are a great Spring palette that’s reminiscent of the heyday of the bib overall: the 80’s and 90’s.
Rolla’s Trade Overalls
Australian brand Rolla’s isn’t as well known in the States but it should be. Their khaki overalls are a prime example of putting out a great product with minimal updates and letting the piece speak for itself. With a relaxed fit in a natural khaki, it’s a garment that can be worn season after season and pair with just about anything.
Buy Now $149
