From plus-sized overalls to quirky, Bohemian overall dresses, the oversized look is trending in a big way. Women’s overall dresses have come a long way from basic denim — although that style is still as popular as ever. Read this guide to choosing overall dresses for ladies and discover new styles and ways you can wear this classic look.
What Is an Overall Dress?
Overalls began their history as workwear, embraced by both men and women in the wake of the 1940s. They’ve evolved from practical pants with straps into a must-have fashion item. And, today, comfy overalls have transformed into some of the most versatile and classy dresses on the market.
At its most basic, an overall dress is as if a pair of overalls had the pants legs cut and stitched into a skirt. However, designers have moved beyond the basics. You can now buy overall dresses in a range of fabrics, styles, and lengths. Some have flared skirts, others offer a simple wraparound style, while others are adorned with beads, buttons, and even lace.
You’ll notice that overall dresses focuses on comfort but with a touch of femininity and, in some cases, elegance and class. But of course, there are plenty of overall dresses for women that revel in slouchy, oversized relaxation.
Choosing the Perfect Overall Dresses
When trying to choose the right option from any collection of overall dresses for women, you should consider:
- Size: How oversized should you go? Overall dresses should easily fit over a blouse or t-shirt with room to spare. Consider at least one size up from your usual.
- Material: Like most garments, light materials are better for warm weather, and heavier materials like denim work when it’s cooler. However, you can also pair denim with boots and chunky shoes, while floatier fabrics work well with strappy shoes.
- Style: Classic overall dresses for women echo the “bib overalls” look with wide straps, buttons or buckles, and a mid-length skirt. However, don’t be limited by these options. Harem-pant style legs, longer lengths, and narrow straps provide much more versatility for today’s overall dress
How to Wear Women’s Overall Dresses in Every Season
The best thing about buying overall dresses for women is that they work in any season. A simple denim option can become a completely different outfit every day depending on what you pair it with. Here are just a few tips on styling up casual overall dresses at any time of the year.
Spring
Springtime is all about new growth and the world getting warmer. It’s the perfect time for you to try something new and freshen up any wardrobe that’s still packed with sweaters and scarves. Explore whimsy with overall dresses in midi and shorter lengths, particularly with bold prints in light, spring tones.
Vintage chic is a great aesthetic to explore in spring. The Vintage Polka Dots Denim Overall Dress combines a retro, ‘50s-inspired print with earthy colors and simple wide straps. You can pair it with a vest or light blouse, keeping a short jacket to hand for those cooler spring evenings.
Summer
Could women’s overall dresses be the perfect addition to your summer wardrobe? Yes, thanks to newer styles embracing lightweight fabrics and cuts that flatter any figure. Floral prints are big in this season as are embellishments like lace skirt sections.
Check out the “Soak up the Sun” cotton overall dress in midi length. The light, flowing fabric is ideal for hot summer days, especially when you pair it with some comfy, casual sandals and a favorite t-shirt.
Fall
As the weather turns cooler, look for thicker fabrics like heavier denim, ideally in either darker colors or fall tones like reds, browns, and oranges. Hippie-chic comes into its own at this time of year. Enjoy tie-dyed or '70s-style prints on casual overall dresses when you’re heading to late music festivals or farmer’s markets.
A longer cut is also a great option for fall. This Floral Long Denim Overall Dress makes a statement in bold prints combined with muted greens, blues, and reds.
Winter
Longer nights mean more opportunities to party. You can opt for oversized dresses with a touch of elegance, embracing the darker range of colors available. Black is always in trend, of course, so look out for ruffled black overall dresses for ladies or even options in sheer materials.
Turn heads with a Plus Size Vintage Black Overall Dress with a flared, bell-like skirt and wide straps that go perfectly with long-sleeved tops.