Why This Blogger Wears Overalls Everywhere (Even to Weddings)
Plenty of fashion girls we know have their thing. It could be super-wide-leg pants, white tees always, or simply an all-black color palette. For We Wore What’s Danielle Bernstein, it’s overalls. No doubt about it. And since the best business owners are ones who are deeply passionate about what they’re selling, it only makes sense that Bernstein’s next step is launching her own line of—you guessed it—overalls.
“Overalls are a versatile, seasonless wardrobe essential that can be styled for both casual and dressy occasions,” the blogger and entrepreneur told us when we ask about the debut of Second Skin Overalls and its premiere five-piece collection, The Basics. Honestly, we can’t help but take her word for it. This devotee has even gone so far as to wear a pair to a wedding and swears by the onesie silhouette as a piece that has no limits.
Need further proof? Below, Bernstein divulges more about her fashion thing and gives us an exclusive peek at her new Second Skin Overalls styling video in which she transforms her designs in innumerable ways.
Scroll down for the exclusive video, interview, and first look at the debut collection.
WHO WHAT WEAR: Overalls can be a bit of a polarizing and tricky trend. Can you give us your best tips for wearing them?
DANIELLE BERNSTEIN: I treat them as I would a pair of jeans or black pants by pairing them with sweaters, blouses, or simple tops. The High-Rise Skinny can be paired with a rocker tee or blouse or even an oversize sweater. Alternatively, you can wear something as simple as a sleeveless tank to make the style more casual and comfortable with a pair of white kicks. The High-Rise Flare has more of a ’70s vibe and is the ideal silhouette to pair with heels. I love how effortless and sexy it looks with a white pump. I’ve also worn this style on its own (it covers all the right parts).The jumpsuit is a stand-alone style that can be accessorized with a choker or statement earring. The oversize culottes and relax fit are ideal for travel or running errands too!
WWW: Are there any standout pairs of overalls you own and love that inspired your designs?
DB: Nearly five years ago, I created We Wore What as an opportunity to document daily outfits and inspiration. The impetus of the site derived from my personal wardrobe motto: “Overalls are my second skin.” I had been an avid collector for years and would constantly be in search of both high-end and high-street styles. My favorites always ended up being vintage and were rarely duplicated or they were made in a way that they actually fit nicely and were flattering.
WWW: Where’s the most unexpected place you’ve ever worn overalls?
DB: I have a gorgeous pair of black satin vintage overalls that I wore to a wedding, believe it or not! Not only did I feel über-chic and sophisticated, I was likely the most comfortable guest there.
WWW: Do you have any overalls style inspirations?
DB: I have always been inspired by the versatility and ease of overalls. What was once a traditional utilitarian work uniform is now a style that can be worn to a cocktail party or in Justin Bieber’s case, your outfit to meet the prime minister. Rachel on Friends; Salt-N-Pepa; Tupac; on Dawson’s Creek, Joey Potter each gave overalls coolness; and then Sarah Jessica Parker, Rihanna, Kendall Jenner, and supermodels alike brought this entirely new sex appeal to them.
WWW: And finally, as an entrepreneur, what’s the most exciting and challenging part about building your own fashion brand?
DB: Every detail that goes into the creation of a piece of denim is so important to the final product. Watching Second Skin Overalls come to life is beyond rewarding. I have also been so humbled to witness the build-up of excitement from my followers. The back end of a retail business has been the most complex and difficult. The ins and outs of production and distribution have been an incredible learning experience. I have a newfound appreciation for all of it.
What’s your own fashion thing? Let us know in the comments.
Who's your style icon?Taylor Tomasi HillWho are your 5 favorite people to follow on Twitter/Instagram? @tamumcpherson @lisasaysgah @therealgracecoddington @everyoutfitonsatc @notmynonni What's the fashion essential you can’t live without? A leather jacket.What's your desert island album? Beyoncé "B'Day." Or pretty much anything Beyoncé.
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