Dungaree, also known as overalls, have long been a staple in the fashion world. From their origins as practical workwear to their transition into casual street style, dungarees have evolved significantly over the decades. But the question remains: were dungarees in fashion in 2017? The short answer is yes, dungarees made a major comeback in 2017, emerging as one of the most versatile and popular trends of the year. This article delves into the revival of dungarees in 2017, analyzing how they were styled, their cultural significance, and why they gained popularity during this time.
The History of Dungarees
Origins as Workwear
Dungarees trace their origins back to the late 19th century, when they were designed as durable workwear for laborers, particularly in the fields and factories. Made from denim or cotton fabric, they were designed for comfort and practicality. The word “dungaree” is believed to have come from the name of a type of coarse cloth from India, and over time, it became associated with sturdy overalls worn by working-class individuals.
Transition to Casual Wear
While dungarees were initially practical and functional, they eventually found their place in everyday casual wear during the 20th century. In the 1960s and 1970s, dungarees became a symbol of youth rebellion and counterculture, with artists, musicians, and celebrities adopting the style. In the decades that followed, dungarees remained a timeless item of clothing, but it wasn’t until the 2010s that they saw a significant resurgence in fashion.
The Dungarees Resurgence in 2017
The Revival of 90s and Early 2000s Trends
One of the key factors behind the popularity of dungarees in 2017 was the revival of 90s and early 2000s fashion trends. Fashion had a major throwback moment, as designers and consumers began embracing styles from these decades, which included denim overalls, oversized jackets, and chokers. The 90s had seen a strong trend of casual and laid-back styles, which made dungarees a perfect fit for 2017’s fashion landscape.
Many fashion influencers and celebrities began wearing denim dungarees in various styles, pairing them with crop tops, oversized shirts, and sneakers, which made them seem fresh and modern. The 90s influence meant that dungarees weren’t just a nostalgic piece of clothing, but a statement of cool, relaxed style.
Social Media Influence
In 2017, social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest played a huge role in the resurgence of certain fashion trends. Influencers, bloggers, and everyday social media users shared their takes on dungarees, often styling them in new and inventive ways. Celebrities like Rihanna, Kylie Jenner, and Zendaya were spotted sporting dungarees, inspiring their followers to adopt the trend.
On Instagram, hashtags like #DungareeStyle or #OverallOutfit became increasingly popular, encouraging people to showcase their personal interpretations of the trend. Social media helped make dungarees more accessible, with users experimenting with different cuts, colors, and fabrics to make the style their own.
How Dungarees Were Styled in 2017
The Classic Denim Dungarees
While dungaree came in a variety of styles, the classic denim overall remained one of the most popular choices in 2017. Often worn in its traditional blue denim form, these dungarees were versatile and easy to style for any occasion. They were paired with t-shirts, tank tops, and button-up shirts for a laid-back, everyday look. The simplicity of denim dungarees made them a great canvas for layering and accessorizing, allowing individuals to personalize their outfits.
The Cropped Dungaree
Another popular variation of dungarees in 2017 was the cropped version. With the rise of crop tops and cropped jackets in mainstream fashion, it was only natural that dungarees would also get the cropped treatment. These shorter overalls were often paired with high-waisted pants or skirts underneath, creating a stylish and trendy silhouette. Cropped dungarees allowed for more freedom of movement and were perfect for warmer weather, making them a summer staple.
Dungarees with a Feminine Twist
While dungarees were traditionally associated with more masculine workwear, in 2017, designers and consumers gave them a more feminine twist. Dungarees came in various fabrics, colors, and prints, such as floral patterns, pastels, and soft cotton. These styles allowed individuals to create a more girly or chic look while still maintaining the practicality and comfort of traditional dungarees.
The Urban Street Style Look
Dungarees also became a prominent feature in urban street style. Influenced by hip-hop culture, the streetwear aesthetic embraced oversized dungarees worn with graphic t-shirts, hoodies, and sneakers. The look was relaxed yet bold, making dungarees a standout piece in street fashion. The combination of comfort and style made them an ideal choice for people who wanted to make a statement without sacrificing functionality.
The Cultural Significance of Dungarees in 2017
A Symbol of Comfort and Practicality
In 2017, the fashion industry began to prioritize comfort, with many designers creating collections that focused on relaxed fits, soft fabrics, and practical clothing. Dungarees fit perfectly into this cultural shift, offering a comfortable yet stylish alternative to more restrictive and formal clothing. As people sought to embrace a more relaxed and functional lifestyle, dungarees became a symbol of this evolving approach to fashion.
Gender-Neutral Fashion
Dungarees also became a part of the growing trend of gender-neutral fashion. Both men and women embraced the trend, with designers creating dungarees that could be worn by anyone, regardless of gender. The simplicity of the overall design made it easy to adapt to different body types and personal styles, contributing to its wide appeal.
The popularity of dungarees in 2017 was part of a larger conversation about fashion being less about gender and more about individual expression. People no longer had to adhere to strict gender norms when it came to their clothing, and dungarees were one of the many items that exemplified this shift.
Nostalgia and Retro Fashion
For many people, dungarees were associated with a sense of nostalgia. The 1990s and early 2000s were formative years for many fashion-conscious individuals, and the revival of dungarees in 2017 allowed people to reconnect with the fashion of their youth. Whether it was the baggy fit of denim dungarees or the casual, effortless look that they offered, this retro trend allowed for a sense of comfort and familiarity while still looking fresh and modern.
Dungarees in High Fashion
Runway Trends and Designer Collections
While dungarees were often thought of as casual, everyday clothing, they also made appearances on high-fashion runways in 2017. Designers like Stella McCartney, Alexander Wang, and Chanel incorporated dungarees into their collections, putting a high-fashion twist on the garment. These designer versions of dungarees were often more tailored, with unique cuts, luxurious fabrics, and avant-garde details.
Fashion houses showcased dungarees as part of a larger trend that embraced comfort, versatility, and effortless style. High-fashion dungarees were often worn with oversized jackets, statement footwear, and bold accessories, turning the simple overall into a high-fashion statement.
Collaboration with Fast Fashion Brands
In addition to high-end designers, fast fashion brands such as Zara, H&M, and ASOS also embraced the dungaree trend. These brands made dungarees accessible to a wider audience by offering affordable versions in a variety of colors, fabrics, and cuts. The ease with which fast fashion brands incorporated dungarees into their collections made the trend mainstream and helped it reach a larger audience.
The Enduring Popularity of Dungarees
A Timeless Fashion Item
Dungarees’ resurgence in 2017 proved that certain fashion items can remain relevant throughout the decades. While trends may come and go, dungarees have stood the test of time and continue to be a versatile wardrobe staple. Whether worn as workwear, casual wear, or as a statement piece, dungarees remain a timeless and adaptable part of fashion.
Ongoing Trend in 2018 and Beyond
The popularity of dungarees continued into 2018 and beyond, with the style evolving to include new cuts, colors, and fabrics. Designers and fashion influencers continued to experiment with dungarees, making them a key item for both casual and high-fashion looks. The comfort and style of dungarees have allowed them to maintain a place in modern wardrobes, ensuring that the trend would persist long after 2017.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dungarees were undoubtedly in fashion in 2017. The revival of 90s and early 2000s trends, combined with the influence of social media and celebrity endorsements, led to dungarees becoming one of the most beloved and versatile items of the year. From classic denim styles to cropped versions and feminine cuts, dungarees offered something for everyone, making them a fashion-forward yet practical choice. As part of the larger cultural shift towards comfort, gender-neutral fashion, and nostalgia, dungarees proved that they had a place in the fashion world in 2017 and beyond. Their enduring popularity shows that sometimes, the best fashion choices are the ones that come back around.
This article covers the history, rise, styling, and cultural significance of dungarees in 2017. It also highlights their place in high fashion and everyday streetwear, offering insights into why they became such a prominent trend that year.