Overall Shorts might make you think of Farmer Joe, but they’ve truly come a long way in the world of fashion. Today, I’m sharing how to wear overall shorts in fun, stylish, and unique ways—because, yes, you can look put-together and modern in this nostalgic staple.
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No, I didn’t buy these overall shorts, I took my overall jeans and cut them off to make them shorts. Why? I felt like I’d wear them more since I don’t Love layering OVER the overalls because of the bathroom inconvenience.
Insider tip: Cutting off jeans to make shorts gives you control of what length inseam you’d like. With jeans, you can just cuff them so you don’t see the raw hem.
As someone who loves pushing boundaries when it comes to fashion (you know that if you’ve followed me for any amount of time), I couldn’t resist taking on this playful trend. And I brought along some style experimentation with my favorite pieces to showcase five fabulous outfit ideas featuring my overall shorts.
The best part? They all feel totally different—and not one makes you feel like you should be out herding cows.
Of course, you could style them with a t-shirt and sneakers, but I used the bib portion of the overall shorts to be functional. Wanna see?
Who says overalls can’t be feminine and flowy? For this outfit, I paired my light-wash overall shorts with a puffy-sleeved blouse that is basically backless. With this, we are getting a mix of structure and softness, and then a peek of sexy from the back.
Insider tip: Remember, just as many people see you from the back, so give them something fun to look at.
Overalls have a boxy, rugged feel, so balancing that with a romantic or whimsical top really elevates the entire look. Notice how the sleeves add volume and movement? That’s what takes it from utilitarian to unique.
Style Tip: Look for blouses with interesting sleeves, embroidery, or lace to offset the denim. You’ll look more Anthropologie than agriculture!
This second look was all about embracing summer—and tube tops hit that mark, right? Not that I buy many tube tops anymore, but lately I’ve been thrifting some and trying to think of layering them like I layered my corset top.
Insider detail: By itself, some clothing may not seem appropriate or as something that fits in your “style”, but you might be surprised at the layering possibilities with it.
I’ve used this tube top to cover up a holiday graphic print…talk about functional.
What makes this work is how the blingy, skin-baring item contrasts with the tomboyish charm of the overalls.
Style Tip: Try tops with fun necklines (off-shoulder, square, or even one-shoulder) under your overall shorts. It’s the easiest way to make a statement without any extra effort.
The idea with this sweater is twofold:
1-It’s open weave enough that I usually have to wear a shirt under it.
2-The scoop neck moves around and shows my bra straps. The overall straps tend to hide them nicely.
One of the tricks I use to keep my overall outfits feeling styled (and not sloppy) is to incorporate accessories. Whether it’s a scarf, a hat, or statement earrings—these extras make all the difference.
Style Tip: Belt loops are more than just a holder for belts. Feel free to attach a scarf, a tassel, or any type of bling to add that sass to your look.
Some days, I feel bad for my swimwear that doesn’t see the light of day very often. And unless I thrifted them, they usually aren’t inexpensive. So I’ve been challenging myself to wear them in other ways.
Remember my swim top under my crochet top?
I’ve worn this tankini top with a skirt years ago (second photo), and it’s a great option since it has support for the girls without wearing a bra.
Style Tip: Since you have to take down your overall for bathroom breaks, you could even wear your one-piece swimsuit with them. Many of them are just too pretty to only be used for the pool.
Last but not least, I paired the overalls with a sheer lime green blouse. I’ve worn the top with a white t-shirt under it and jeans in the past.
I added pink shoes and accessories for the final touch. The result? A fresh, cheerful outfit that felt lively and very “me.”
Also, notice that I often add a brooch to the bib portion of my overall shorts. It’s a great way to decorate it.
Style Tip: Think about tops that you always have to wear something under them out in public. This is your chance to layer over them enough for modesty, but not fully covering them up.
How to wear overall shorts really comes down to this: contrast, creativity, and confidence.
You’re not stuck in the 90s or on a farm unless you want to be. Instead, think of your overall shorts as a blank canvas. Add layers, unexpected textures, fun belts, scarves, and shoes that shift the whole vibe.
Insider tip: The bib portion is a great detail that can add modesty to tops that feel too bare or exposed.
Here are some quick tips to keep in mind:
1- Pair with feminine tops to balance the utilitarian cut
2- Add belts, scarves, or bold jewelry for a polished feel
3- Wear interesting footwear—sneakers, sandals, or ankle boots all work
4- Don’t limit yourself to only wearing casual items with them
5- Play with color—denim is neutral, after all
6- Never say that you’re “too old” for overalls. Style has no age limit!
Overall shorts might be unexpected in a grown-up wardrobe, but with a little creativity, they’re an absolute gem. Whether you prefer boho, classic, retro, or bold styles, there’s a way to make them work for you.
And if you’re feeling nervous about trying them, remember they aren’t all created equal. You can find them more fitted or loose, just depending on your preference.
Either way, I hope these 5 outfits gave you some ideas—and maybe even a nudge—to explore how to wear overall shorts or even overall jeans and make them look amazing.
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