Overall vs. Jumpsuit — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on November 4, 2023
Overalls are workwear with a bib and straps, typically made of denim or heavy cotton; jumpsuits are one-piece garments, often more fashion-focused, for various activities.
Difference Between Overall and Jumpsuit
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Key Differences
Overalls are a type of garment traditionally worn over regular clothes for protection while working. They usually have a bib with straps and are made of sturdy materials like denim or heavy cotton to withstand wear and tear. Overalls are associated with manual labor and have a utilitarian design, providing coverage and functionality with pockets and loops for tools. Jumpsuits, on the other hand, are one-piece garments that cover the body from the shoulders to the legs. Initially designed for parachuters, they've transitioned into fashion and are made from a variety of materials, including soft fabrics for comfort and style.
Overalls were originally designed for functionality with less concern for aesthetics. They cover the legs completely and are often worn with a shirt underneath. The design of overalls facilitates freedom of movement, making them ideal for physical work. Jumpsuits, while also allowing for movement, are designed with a wide range of styles in mind and can be found in both casual and formal wear. They are more likely to have a fitted waist and can come in sleeveless, short sleeve, or long sleeve varieties.
When it comes to fastening, overalls are typically secured with buckles on the straps and may have buttons or zippers at the sides. They are intended to be worn loose for ease of movement. Jumpsuits might feature a zipper or buttons at the front, back, or side and can be belted or elasticated to accentuate the waist. They can be stepped into or pulled over the body, depending on the design.
The term "overall" can also be used to describe something as a whole, or in all respects, which is separate from its clothing definition. Jumpsuits do not share this dual meaning and are solely identified as a type of clothing. Moreover, overalls are more likely to be layered with other pieces of clothing, while jumpsuits can be worn alone as a complete outfit.
Finally, overalls have a timeless quality and have been a staple in certain professions for decades, while jumpsuits have seen more fluctuation in popularity, often influenced by fashion trends and come in various designs from utilitarian to high fashion.
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Comparison Chart
Purpose
Workwear, protective garment.
Fashion wear, functional attire.
Design
Bib and straps, often with a front pocket.
One-piece outfit, fitted at the waist.
Material
Heavy-duty fabrics like denim or canvas.
Variety of materials, from cotton to silk.
Fastening
Buckles and side buttons/zippers.
Zippers or buttons, various locations.
Cultural Association
Manual work, farming, painting.
Fashion, leisure, sometimes work.
Compare with Definitions
Overall
Taking everything into account.
Overall, the trip was memorable, with only a little rain.
Jumpsuit
A one-piece garment combining a top and pants.
She chose a red jumpsuit for her performance.
Overall
A protective outer garment with a bib and shoulder straps.
He put on his overalls before starting to paint the house.
Jumpsuit
A fashion item, often belted and styled for various occasions.
The actress arrived at the premiere in a sleek, black jumpsuit.
Overall
Covering or including everything.
Overall, the project was a success despite some minor setbacks.
Jumpsuit
A one-piece outfit popular in women's fashion.
The designer's new collection featured a jumpsuit with an avant-garde pattern.
Overall
In general or considering everything.
Her overall score placed her at the top of the class.
Jumpsuit
Can be a utilitarian outfit for workers or pilots.
The pilot's jumpsuit had numerous pockets for her gear.
Overall
A full-body garment worn for manual work.
The mechanic's overalls were stained with oil after a day in the shop.
Jumpsuit
Originally designed for parachutists, now a wardrobe staple.
He wore a jumpsuit while skydiving.
Overall
Taking everything into account
The governors and head have overall responsibility for managing the school
The overall effect is impressive
Jumpsuit
A jumpsuit is a one-piece garment with sleeves and legs and typically without integral coverings for feet, hands or head. The original jump suit is the functional one-piece garment used by parachuters.
Overall
Taken as a whole; in all
Overall, 10,000 jobs will go
Jumpsuit
A garment incorporating trousers and a sleeved top in one piece, worn as a fashion item, protective garment, or uniform
She wore a tight silver jumpsuit
Overall
A loose-fitting coat or one-piece garment worn over ordinary clothes for protection against dirt or heavy wear
A pair of overalls
Men in grubby blue overalls
Jumpsuit
A parachutist's uniform.
Overall
From one end to the other
The overall length of the house.
Jumpsuit
A one-piece garment consisting of a blouse or shirt with attached slacks or sometimes shorts. Also called jumper.
Overall
Including everything; comprehensive
The overall costs of medical care.
Jumpsuit
A one-piece item of clothing originally used by parachutists
Overall
Regarded as a whole; general
My overall impression was favorable.
Jumpsuit
A similar item of clothing used for outdoor sports such as skiing
Overall
On the whole; generally
Enjoyed the performance overall.
Jumpsuit
One-piece garment fashioned after a parachutist's uniform
Overall
Chiefly British A loose-fitting protective outer garment; a smock.
Overall
Overalls Loose-fitting pants, usually of strong fabric, with a bib front and shoulder straps, often worn over regular clothing as protection from dirt.
Overall
All-encompassing, all around.
Overall
Generally; with everything considered.
Overall
(British) A garment worn over other clothing to protect it; a coverall or boiler suit. A garment, for manual labor or for casual wear, often made of a single piece of fabric, with long legs and a bib upper, supported from the shoulders with straps, and having several large pockets and loops for carrying tools.
Overall
A garment, worn for manual labor, with an integral covering extending to the chest, supported by straps.
Overall
Everywhere.
Overall
Work clothing consisting of denim trousers (usually with a bib and shoulder straps)
Overall
A loose protective coverall or smock worn over ordinary clothing for dirty work
Overall
Involving only main features;
The overall pattern of his life
Overall
Including everything;
The overall cost
The total amount owed
Common Curiosities
What is a jumpsuit?
A jumpsuit is a one-piece outfit that combines a top with pants or shorts, ranging from casual to formal styles.
Are overalls and dungarees the same?
They are very similar, but dungarees typically refer to overalls made from denim.
What are overalls?
Overalls are a type of protective garment with a bib and straps, often used for manual work.
Are overalls still in fashion?
Yes, overalls have seen a resurgence in fashion as a retro or vintage style.
Can jumpsuits be formal attire?
Yes, jumpsuits come in formal styles appropriate for evening wear or special occasions.
How do you accessorize overalls?
Overalls can be accessorized with a variety of shirts, belts, and shoes to create a desired look.
Do jumpsuits have pockets?
Many jumpsuits have pockets, although the number and style of pockets can vary.
Do overalls come in different styles?
Yes, while traditional overalls are utilitarian, they also come in various cuts and colors for fashion purposes.
How do you wear a jumpsuit?
You step into a jumpsuit and pull it up, securing it with zippers, buttons, or a belt.
Can men wear jumpsuits?
Absolutely, jumpsuits are unisex and come in styles suitable for men.
Are jumpsuits suitable for all body types?
Jumpsuits come in many styles, and there are flattering options for all body types.
Are jumpsuits comfortable?
Jumpsuits can be very comfortable, depending on the fit and fabric.
What shoes go well with a jumpsuit?
Depending on the style of the jumpsuit, both heels and flats can complement the outfit well.
Can overalls be worn in professional settings?
Typically, overalls are not considered professional attire unless the profession involves manual labor.
What seasons are overalls suitable for?
Overalls can be worn year-round, with lighter materials for summer and lined versions for winter.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
