Something shifted in our wardrobes during the pandemic. With the world turned upside down, our clothing choices became a perfect symbol of the tumultuous times. I wore so few bras that I genuinely can’t recall where they all went, and I’m convinced shares in Champion soared as everyone opted for more sweatpants. Once seen as a sign of “giving up,” sweatpants transformed into symbols of cozy acceptance. We realized we didn’t have to endure the discomfort of pencil skirts or crisp blouses—or even shoes—while navigating the uncertainties.
As restrictions ease, it seems everyone around me is stepping up their fashion game—investing in stylish trousers and loafers, comfortable waistbands, and elastic underwear. But I’m not joining the trend.
For years, I’ve secretly wished to revisit the days of my high school uniform at St. Mary’s Academy, with its dull houndstooth skirts and worn white shirts. I even had a vest designed to minimize my bust (a glorified polyester pullover). The only way we could add flair to our outfits was with tiny-heeled shoes, so I stuffed my collection of colorful, toe-crunching flats under my bed.
Once I graduated in 1985, I spent my birthday money on all sorts of clothes. Back then, self-expression was limited compared to today’s tattoos and piercings. I opted for stirrup pants, shoulder pads, and cropped sweatshirts emblazoned with “Frankie Say Relax” along with rhinestone brooches, draping them over my body like a canvas.
Looking back, I’m not just embarrassed by the styles but by the sheer volume of clothes I owned. Yet, as I glance at my closet now, I haven’t exactly decluttered. My hangers overflow with business-casual attire I haven’t worn in years, and I possess every knitted or crocheted item made from 1977 to the 2010s. And skirts? I have an abundance.
Amid this excess, I found myself dreaming of jumpsuits taking center stage—not the high-priced, dry-clean-only kind, but something akin to the khaki coveralls the T-Birds wore during “Go Greased Lightning” in Grease. My nephew runs a garage, but alas, it’s not the 1950s anymore, so I couldn’t find any.
However, in mid-2020, I stumbled upon a gem: my oversized, low-crotch “pandemic overalls.” They were the answer to my prayers. Initially intended for home use, they became my go-to for Starbucks drive-thru runs and early morning dog walks.
I grew attached to my overalls—really attached. They allowed me to wear them multiple days in a row (yes, all days sometimes); I could layer them for cold days or wear them over boxers when it was warm. Best of all, I could throw them on over my pajamas and be “dressed” without anyone knowing. I was simplifying my overstuffed wardrobe with a single pair of dungarees and feeling like a rockstar.
I thought I’d eventually retire my overalls, but they’ve proven to be indispensable. I wear them grocery shopping, to tennis matches, and even for coffee dates with friends. Surprisingly, I’ve received three compliments in 400+ days—three more than I anticipated!
Not everyone approves. My elderly mother nearly prohibited me from leaving her house in them (mind you, she once scolded me as an adult for going out with messy hair). My brother won’t take me to church if I’m wearing my overalls. One guy even implied I looked like I was straight out of Deliverance.
The truth is, these comfortable, “fashion don’ts” are sticking around because they make me feel good. I embrace a carefree spirit when I wear them. With no restrictions digging into my skin, I can move freely without worrying about tags or uncomfortable fit. I can go about my day without fretting over “body stuff.”
Despite societal pressures to look “presentable,” I’m not giving in. I may invest in fancier pairs for weddings or funerals—after all, no one wants to overshadow a bride or a deceased—but my everyday uniform is here to stay.
Who knows? Maybe I’ll become a trendsetter, inspiring others to downsize their wardrobes to practical, “so-ugly-they’re-cute” denim overalls.
Honestly, I’ve found my fashion soulmate.
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Summary:
This article explores the shift in fashion choices during the pandemic, highlighting the author’s love for oversized, comfortable overalls that symbolize freedom and comfort over restrictive clothing. Despite outside opinions and societal pressures, the author embraces this unique style as their everyday uniform.