How to wear dungarees if you're an adult

The biggest mini trend of spring/summer '13 is here to stay. Dungarees! First spotted on the catwalks, they were quickly advocated by every style blogger and fashion-forward celeb out there - think Alexa Chung, Selma Blair and Rihanna.

how to wear dungarees
(Image credit: Rex Features (Shutterstock))

How to master the spring/summer trend like Alexa Chung

Dungarees are the perfect spring/summer trend, keeping you comfortable whilst stylish. Once confined to the playground, the dungaree is now a go-to for fashion influencers and celebrities like Alexa Chung, Rihanna and Kate Bosworth.

They are versatile and, believe it or not, easy to wear: just add a simple white T-shirt or Breton top for the weekend and a plain sheer shirt for cocktails with the girls. Or, for a look that's bang on trend for SS17, throw denim dungarees over a gingham shirt with oversized sleeves.

If you want to tackle this tricky trend it but aren't sure where to start, here are our top five tips on how to do it, and where to buy the best dungarees.

1. Don’t be afraid of prints

Don't be fooled into thinking it's all about washed denim dungarees. If you want to make the look smart, for a colourful print, or another of this season's big trend: embroidery. We love this look from Needle & Thread below. For a more wearable look team your printed dungarees with a plain top – no details or patterns. Always stick to a neutral tone such as grey, black or white. Keep shoes and accessories simple, perhaps a plain court and clutch in the same colour.

Shop now: Needle & Thread Flower Foliage embroidered overalls for £285 from Net-A-Porter

how to wear dungarees

2. Dressing dungarees down

These Donna Ida dungarees are the perfect weekend go-to. Stick a long sleeved Breton underneath for ultimate comfort and style. A pair of converse or casual sandals will also look great. Finish with a pair of Ray Ban Wayfarer's to complete the look.

Shop now: Donna Ida black denim dungarees for £205 from Harvey Nichols

how to wear dungarees

3. How to style short dungarees

Come summer, short dungarees are great for dressing up and down. Wear with flats during the day and change into a heel for night time. Again, if you pick a loud print, tone it down with a sheer blouse. Cut-off short denim dungarees are the ultimate cool style statement and a lot more wearable for day-to-day. Pair yours with a slogan tee.

Shop now: MOTO boyfriend short dungarees for £39 from Topshop

how to wear dungarees

4. Bare your midriff

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This look is far more forgiving than having your stomach on full display, so don't worry about eating that extra sausage at your friend's BBQ. Crop tops look great under a pair of dungarees and they are a huge trend this summer. Don’t be afraid to bare yours!

Shop now: Honey Punch dungaree with eyelet details for £22 from ASOS

how to wear dungarees

5. Bold colours

Bright pink dungarees are the ultimate cool. Let them do all the talking by teaming an ankle skimming style with a great court shoe. Wear a simple white top and you are ready to go - and, if you're feeling bold, add a statement lip or earrings.

Shop now: Watermelon dungaree dress for £75 from Lazy Oaf

how to wear dungarees

Side note: When it comes to dungarees, the ultimate style rule to remember is: have fun. While a couple of years ago we would have advised not to wear a red plaid shirt with a denim pair lest you look like farmer, this season anything goes, so just embrace it.

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