Overalls have long been a staple of outdoor work. From early railroad workers to farmers to almost anyone who had to stay outside for long periods of time, these garments have been a rugged example of clothes that can stand up to the harshest environments and toughest work demands. Carhartt Clothing, in fact, started their reign as one of the big names in work wear by creating a pair of overalls designed for the demands of the railroad after a consultation with an engineer. Now let's look back at how this type of apparel became so popular with outdoor workers.

What are Overalls?

There is some difference among people when it comes to determine exactly what counts as overalls. Originally, the overall was basically an all-in-one outfit that was meant to protect every part of your body. The overalls Carhartt Clothing made for the railroad workers were made from denim which is considered one of the most durable fabrics available.

Bib overalls are a bit different and are also sometimes known as dungarees. These consist of a pair of pants with a chest covering and a pair of suspenders that holds everything up. Normally a T-shirt is worn under the bib overalls. Carhartt Clothing actually sells both insulated and non-insulated versions of bib overalls.

Adding to the confusion is also the use of the word coverall – a term used to describe some Carhartt Clothing. These are closer to the original overalls which covered the entire body. In popular culture, these are sometimes referred to as boilersuits. Race car drivers today wear boilersuits for added protection.

The History of Overalls

Overalls began to be made in the late 18th century which is about the same time Carhartt Clothing began developing their own versions with the help of railroad worker input. During the early 20th century, they began to grow in popularity. Women were wearing them in British factories and auto mechanics had adopted them as their standard uniform. Just a couple of decades later, overalls were even being used as a type of comfortable apparel for small children who needed the freedom to move around without being constricted by tight clothes.

Modern Times & Overalls

Although most of the overalls sold through Carhartt Clothing are designed primarily for the work environment, there's no denying that this is one piece of apparel that has been in vogue fashion wise in the past. Starting in the 1960's, overalls were being worn by men and women not for work but for style. Instead of being made in basic colors or of plain denim, they became available in high end retailers in a wide assortment of colors and materials.

However, people who appreciated the practical side of overalls always knew that Carhartt Clothing were the best place to go for these purchases.

The Practical Place for Overalls

Today, overalls continue to be one of the best choices of work wear available. Carhartt Clothing continues to be one of the leading sellers of some of the best workers can buy.