Calling all 90’s fashion fans: Dungarees are back!
We all have a fondness for nostalgic fashions from our childhood and it’s no surprise that the marmite of the jumpsuit world is making a return. A piece of clothing that has sometimes ended up at the wrong end of the fashion scale, dungarees have recently popped up in the catwalks, are now fast becoming a credible high street staple.
The word "dungaree" comes from Dongri – the area of Mumbai which produced the rough calico used to make them and started life as workmen’s apparel in the late 1800’s. They were adopted as a style statement in the 1960s and have swung in and out of style ever since.
The humble dungaree can now be found in wide spectrum of materials and fits; from the bright painterly denim at House of Holland to the sleek leather versions courtesy of Philip Lim and the simple navy twill offering at Margaret Howell.
Alexa Chung, known for making anything look effortlessly stylish is one of the first champions of the trend, styling hers denim pair over a loose blouse and heeled sandals, where as Pixie Lott has teamed her turn-ups with a simple polo neck jumper and loafer style shoes.
This childhood staple has been resurrected in multiple styles for Spring/Summer 2013 in classic stonewash denim and cute printed pinafore dresses. Comfortable and easy to wear, the possibilities are endless for this utility onesie.
For a proper 90’s teen spirit vibe, team yours with a loose tee and an American varsity jacket. If you prefer something more feminine and girly, ASOS have a pretty floral dungaree jumpsuit or there are River Islands red floral print smart full-length dungarees. Consider wearing yours with a clashing blouse underneath. For a more classic look, pair your denim dungarees with a Breton striped tee or a graphic print shirt will bring retro dungarees bang up to date.
Whilst there aren’t many mens dungarees on the highstreet at the moment, Topman have a pair of stone canvas dungarees which will look fashionable when effortlessly worn with a patterend tee underneath. For something more classical, check out vintage websites such as Rokit.com and ASOS Marketplace where you will be able to find grunge corduroy overall dungarees and ‘Lee’ Casual dungarees in mid blue denim, vintage work wear classic and a versatile wardrobe essential.
So be brave and wear your dungarees with pride. We’ll be looking out for them across campus when Style Spotter returns after the Easter break.
