Typically I have a rule: if I’ve assumed a trend once in my lifetime, I need to think carefully before riding that wave again. And having paraded overalls (typically with one strap unlatched) during its peak in the nineties, I hesitated before revisiting it again.
But when I saw the overall’s sweet cousin, the overall dress (aka bib dress, aka denim pinafore), I felt terribly nostalgic. It was durable yet feminine, an irresistible if unexpected combination.
OUTFIT ONE: OVERALL DRESS + BODY SUIT + CHOKER
For my first look, I decided to assemble an appropriate homage to the 90’s. Body suits play well with overalls, slim and secure (other tops have the potential to bunch up or even peek out the sides). The choker revisited with layers of suede and finished with a bow, left me feeling just enough separated from my junior high years.
OUTFIT TWO: OVERALL DRESS + STATEMENT SLEEVES + BANDANA
I wanted to try two of my favorite current trends with the overall dress next: statement sleeves and a square scarf.
I love how the broad ruffles of the bell sleeves contrast with the slim silhouette of the jumper. And the view is just as darling from the back, the exit is just as cute as the entrance. I put my sons in suspenders all the time (it makes them easier to catch 😉 )
Accessorizing with a statement bandana, leans the denim dress further towards its western roots. And there are so many fun ways to tie it.
OUTFIT THREE: OVERALL DRESS + BUTTONDOWN
For my final look, I took the button-up, which you could also wear buttoned underneath, and tied it over top.
It’s a less conventional version of a cardigan. It’s polished, slightly masculine, and carries some disheveled structure.
To keep the look casual. I rolled up the shirt sleeves and flipped the collar. Bonus: the knotted detail narrows and showcases the waist.
You could also play off this same idea with a t-shirt tied to the side of the waist. It turns the bib-dress into a sleek denim skirt.
So which look is your favorite? Have you tried out overalls yet? And how do you feel about revisiting the 90’s?
Photos by Chrissy Blake of Let Me See You Sparkle
Claire Allred says
This dress is adorable and I love the way you have styled it. I was wondering if you could do a post in the future about a clothing budget and if you want to look well dressed about how much you should plan per month to spend. I’m not looking for “budget friendly” items that are cheap but how much I should spend per month on good clothing that will last. Do you have a set amount you spend per month or do you just buy pieces when you find something that you really love regardless of the price?
CardiganEmpire says
Excellent question. I’ll start working on something. Thanks for the comment.
Mikaela says
Where can this dress be bought!? I love the nod to the overalls trend without being cliche!
CardiganEmpire says
I found it at Anthropologie: http://rstyle.me/~iA-9Jscv_ It’s been a favorite in my closet. 🙂