Overalls in the Limelight

There’s no denying it – overalls are back and they are more stylish than ever before. Yes, that’s right.

Overalls are no longer just for farmers or those in vocational fields – almost everyone is rocking the trend right now, so why not reach for a pair? The Weekender spoke to some fashion experts who offer tips for rocking this trend.

Designer Beverly Kaposiao, who has two collections of overalls, believes one must start by finding the perfect fit and fabric.

“Cotton twill is very comfortable to wear. The material feels comfortable, light and allows the body to get enough air. As a designer, I also enjoy working with it because I can be creative,” she says.

Kaposiao says overalls with several pockets for both men and women look great. She advises women to opt for something with a v-cut and a belt as this helps enhance your femine curves. For men, Kaposiao says something with elastic at the ends of the ankles is perfect.

She loves that overalls come in a wide variety of colours, which allows everyone to get it in the colour they love, however, Kaposiao admits choosing the right colour can be very tricky, and people often get it wrong.

“I always advise clients to go for a colour that complements their skin tone.”

Rundu-based fashion designer Santia Poroto believes celebrities, fashion writers and photographers have played a role in all the attention this trend is currently receiving.

Being a fan herself, Poroto says overalls are comfortable and versatile.

“You can style them with your favourite shoes. Pair them with a pair of stilettos for the sophisticated look, a heeled sandal for the chic-glam look, sneakers or All Stars for the sporty-funky look.”

Poroto says there is no one way of wearing overalls, as the look offers endless possibilities.

“I’m all about experimentation. My recommendation is go wild, constantly reinvent it and take fashion risks. Life is short.”

Designer Christ Lao Shameulu, who is also an electrical engineering student, says people like overalls because they can be dressed up or down. She personally enjoys wearing them on a daily basis as a student.

“Now that they have come into fashion, it is a bonus for me to wear them more. They can take you from a Friday night out with friends (by wearing them with sneakers) to a Monday girl boss look by throwing a blazer on top and pairing it with sock boots,” she said.

Shameulu says she’s seen many get the trend completely wrong, simply because they do not put enough effort into the look.

“I like to belt and accessorise it by wearing a statement watch or bangle. You don’t necessarily have to wear it like a construction worker, spice up the look. I would also advise that you invest in a good quality overall.”

Self-taught designer Pea Pewa says another thing that can ruin the look is the wrong hairstyle.

“A short hairstyle is best. Very long hair is a no-no, unless you style it in a cute up-do or bolla. The great thing about overalls is that they go well with accessories. You should pair them with a mini handbag, as big handbags ruin the look. Another thing is to not overdo it when you accessorise.”

Designer Linrico Humphries dislikes it when people wear tight overalls that don’t fit them well. “This makes them look uncomfortable,” he says. “I would advise men to wear more overalls and get on board with this trend as it looks great on them.”

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