You Can’t Take My Comfy Pandemic Overalls Away From Me

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You Can’t Take My Comfy Pandemic Overalls Away From Me

by Jamie L. Parker
Updated: Sep. 22, 2021
Originally Published: Sep. 22, 2021

Shana Novak/Getty Images

The pandemic changed our relationship with clothing in unexpected ways. With the world turned upside down, our collective wardrobe became a fitting metaphor for the chaos. I found myself wearing bras so infrequently that I can’t even recall where they disappeared to, while I’m convinced that Champion stocks soared as everyone embraced the comfort of sweatpants. What once signified “giving up” transformed into a cozy acceptance of our new reality, as we opted for ease over formality, ditching pencil skirts and collared shirts for something more relaxed—even shoes became optional.

Now that restrictions have eased, it seems everyone around me is stepping up their fashion game, trading in for stylish pants and sophisticated footwear. Meanwhile, I remain steadfast.

For years, I’ve secretly wished for a return to the uniformed days of high school, sporting dull houndstooth skirts and faded white blouses. I even had a vest designed to minimize my bust. The only way to inject some personality into our outfits back then was through an array of cheap, funky flats hidden under my bed.

Once I was free from the confines of that all-girls institution in 1985, I splurged on clothes using my birthday money. In those days, expression was limited compared to today’s tattoos and piercings, so I opted for stirrup pants, oversized shoulder pads, and cropped sweatshirts emblazoned with slogans. I layered them on my canvas of a body.

Looking back, it’s not just the styles that make me cringe; it’s the sheer volume of clothing I accumulated. But as I survey my closet now, I realize it’s still overflowing with business casual attire—even though I haven’t held a semi-professional job in over a decade. My collection includes every knit or crocheted piece produced from 1977 to the 2010s. And skirts? I’ve got a surplus.

What’s amusing is that amidst this abundance, I’ve fantasized about the jumpsuit making a comeback. Not the overpriced, dry-clean-only versions, but something akin to the khaki coveralls worn by the T-Birds in “Grease.” Unfortunately, my nephew’s garage is not from the 1950s, so I’ve never managed to find any.

However, in mid-2020, I stumbled upon something even better: my oversized, low-crotch “pandemic overalls.” Initially intended for home wear to avoid any wardrobe malfunctions while lounging, they soon became my go-to for outings, including trips through the Starbucks drive-thru and dog walks before dawn.

I became surprisingly attached to my overalls. I could wear them several days in a row, layering up on chilly mornings or opting for boxers on warmer days. The best part? I could simply throw them over my pajamas and feel dressed without anyone knowing. I was transforming my cluttered wardrobe into one easy outfit, and doing it fabulously.

I thought I’d eventually retire my overalls, especially after my son’s comment about my looking like a rodeo clown. But truthfully, they are here to stay. I wear them grocery shopping, to tennis matches, and out for coffee with friends. I’ve even received a few compliments—three in over 400 days, which is three more than I expected.

Not everyone appreciates my fashion choice. During a recent visit to my mom, she nearly forbade me from leaving the house in them. My brother won’t take me to church if I wear them, and some guy suggested I belonged on the set of “Deliverance.”

Nevertheless, these comfortable, somewhat ridiculous overalls have become my signature. They make me feel free and unencumbered. I don’t have to deal with tight clothing digging in or worrying about how I look. There’s a certain liberation in wearing them—no fussing over tags or stomachs.

Despite the pressure to look “presentable,” I refuse to conform. I might consider investing in a nicer pair for special occasions, but my everyday uniform is here to stay. Who knows? Maybe I’ll become a trendsetter, inspiring others to embrace practical, if unflattering, denim overalls.

Ultimately, I feel like I’ve discovered my true fashion soulmate.

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Summary:

The pandemic has redefined fashion norms for many, with comfortable wear taking precedence over formality. The author reflects on their own wardrobe evolution, celebrating the comfort of oversized overalls that have become a staple in their daily life despite mixed reactions from others. Emphasizing the liberation of comfortable clothing, the author embraces their unique style, hinting at a potential trend in the making.

Keyphrase: comfortable pandemic overalls

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