Dungarees: An overall good look

No longer just for painters and maternity wear, dungarees have returned to fashion just in time for the festival season – even if they will mean you take a little longer in the loo, says Naomi Attwood

No one could walk around in a pair of dungarees in a bad mood – it would be impossible. Other members of the all-in-one family, from elegant silky jersey jumpsuit to the dreaded onesie, have proved themselves to be quite handy wardrobe staples rather than one-season wonders. Fashion has embraced the all-in-one, even to the point of being prepared to forgive the extra time they necessitate in the loo.

The all-in-one of this summer is that unreconstructed favourite of the Eighties and Nineties – dungarees. Loose-fit legs, square bib front and those satisfyingly clippy clasps are all imperative. Back in the day, Kylie, Sarah Jessica Parker and, best of all, rapping trio TLC wore their dungarees, or overalls, with pride. Lately, style ringleader Alexa Chung has been out in various denim dungarees styles – cementing their status as must-haves.

On the high street, River Island has the most comprehensive selection, while premium denim labels Citizens of Humanity and J Brand have both produced some workman-like overalls this season.

Or, while the time to invest in festival tickets and holiday bookings is nigh, one might be tempted to go wild in the aisles, picking a coloured, or even patterned pair – after all, they are for just fun, rather than dress-to-impress job interview attire.

As dungarees on their own are already quite a statement, the best accompanying items are simple – a striped Breton top is ideal or, on warm days, a plain black or white T-shirt unless you want to look like Timmy Mallett’s sister. If, however, you’re feeling particularly jaunty, then go ahead and add a printed bomber jacket, neon-coloured beanie and giant earrings. You’ll still look tame compared to the archive photos of TLC, who accessorised theirs with colourful condom packets.