Are Overalls a Shirt or Pants?

When it comes to versatile workwear and fashion staples, overalls often spark a fun debate: are they a shirt, or are they pants? The truth is, overalls are both—and neither—at the same time. They’re a unique garment that combines practicality with style, which is why they’ve remained relevant for decades.

The Anatomy of Overalls

Overalls are essentially pants with an attached bib (the fabric panel that covers the chest) and straps that go over the shoulders. Unlike shirts or pants, they function as a single piece, blending coverage, durability, and comfort into one garment. Because of this hybrid design, they don’t neatly fall into either the “shirt” or “pants” category.

Instead, think of overalls as their own clothing class. They’re designed to protect your clothes during heavy-duty work, but they’ve also become a fashion statement, showing up in casual wear, uniforms, and even streetwear.

Why People Get Confused

• They look like pants. Since the bottom half of overalls is made up of trousers, many assume they’re just pants with extra fabric on top.

• They’re worn over shirts. Some might think of them as “shirts” because of the bib that covers the chest, but in reality, that’s just part of the design.

• They’re multifunctional. Overalls are built to work hard, making them hard to define by traditional clothing standards.

The Best Way to See It

Overalls are not strictly shirts or pants—they’re a full-body garment designed for flexibility. Whether you’re working on a project, suiting up for a team uniform, or stepping out in casual style, overalls do the job of both without being confined to either category.

Make Them Your Own

The best part about custom overalls is that you can design them to fit your exact needs. Whether you’re a business outfitting your staff, a school creating uniforms, or an individual who wants a unique fashion piece, customization lets you decide the fabric, fit, and style that works best for you.

At CraftClothing, we specialize in turning everyday essentials like overalls into durable, stylish, and personalized pieces. Our team ensures your designs don’t just look good but last through wear and tear, making them perfect for both work and lifestyle.

✅ Bottom line: Overalls aren’t just shirts or pants—they’re both in one, with a timeless design that adapts to any occasion.