We’ve all probably worn overalls at some point in our lives. For most, it was probably during childhood, when we were too young to care about style and our parents dressed us in what was most available and most convenient for an all-time consuming rascal. But now it’s a different story. Every year, designers from Ralph Lauren to Jean Paul Gaultier play with the quintessential overalls design to see what they can do to spice up this plain and slightly drab worker uniform.

At some points overalls were said to be hot competition for jumpsuits, we don’t really get the appeal of either, since very specific types of people can pull off this very niche style.

Utility Uniform or Fashion Inspiration?

Let’s break it down. Like distinct military fashion, overalls were initially created to be a uniform, to be worn for practical purposes. Whether you’re a painter, farmer, or construction worker, overalls are a great garment because they are easy to put on and take off, and have plenty of pockets for your tools. Unlike elegant military style, overalls aren’t so versatile. Overalls by nature are one piece and need the chunky straps to hold it up on your bod.

Another point to consider is that they are difficult to blend them into everyday situations. You can’t really wear a pair of overalls to work, no matter what material they’re made of or how sleek of a suit jacket you put over them. Neither is it particularly hip to slip into a pair of overalls for a date, even if your date is literally in a country field admiring the starry night. Overalls look great as a uniform, but their fundamentally professional nature only allows certain fashionistas to be able to wear them and look stylishly hip. That said, it’s not impossible to spice up this traditionally worker uniform in certain ways that suit some people. Some fashionistas who love the grittier looks might enjoy a good pair of overalls, but for most of us, it just isn’t a fantastic outfit.

Stylized and Reinvented

There’s no doubt that some fashion lovers out there are cringing at this article, because they have found definite ways to take overalls out of the realm of field workers and third graders. The problem with these stylized and reinvented overalls is that only certain people can effectively pull them off. The taller and thinner you are, the better. Overalls need to drape to look fashionable. Curvaceous bodies will bulge too much in this one-piece wonder. You must also be prepared to broadcast a specific type of look if you want to wear overalls. If you’re comfortable with a kitschier style of scrappy cuteness, then overalls can be great for you. Or maybe youre the type that really loves a down-at-heel earthy style suitable for lots of outdoor time, then overalls may be your thing as well.

We can admit, some people look darn chic in a pair of overalls that has been fashioned to suit their tastes. It is entirely possible. But for the masses of the rest of us, overalls are a little too specific and particular for our tastes. Maybe with a funky print or adorned up with cute belts and stylish jackets, overalls can be spiced up to have some fashion street cred, but it remains the forte of a few. A great look requires versatility and general wearability. Because overalls are best suited for uber casual occasions or fashionistas who already have a strong look and personality for that look, we at the Xaxii Creative Team cannot love em.

Don’t let us discourage you, however! If you want to give overalls a try, by all means go for it. But bear in mind what you’re signing up for. Keep a strong grip on your confidence if you’re going to walk around in overalls. Some people can indeed pull it off, and you may just be one of them.