For a tradesperson in construction, the one-piece garment with a bib and shoulder straps is most commonly called:
1. Overalls
This is the most universal and widely understood term in North American English for the bib-and-brace style work garment.
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Key Identifier: Bib front with shoulder straps that fasten to the trousers.
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Example: “I need a new pair of overalls for the job site.”
cotton like brushed multi pocket oxford reinforced bib overalls
2. Bib Overalls
This term is often used to be more specific and to avoid confusion with coveralls. You’ll see this term frequently on e-commerce sites and in stores.
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Key Identifier: The word “bib” clarifies the style.
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Example: “These bib overalls have hammer loops and tool pockets.”
3. Dungarees
This term is more common in British English but is also used by certain American workwear brands (like Carhartt) and in fashion contexts. In a construction setting in the US or Canada, you might hear it, but “overalls” is more prevalent.
The Critical Difference: Overalls vs. Coveralls
This is the most important distinction for a tradesperson to make, as they are two very different garments.
| Feature | Overalls (Bib Overall / Dungarees) | Coveralls (Boiler Suit) |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | Bib top attached to trousers. Torso is covered but sides/back are open. | Full one-piece suit with long sleeves and a full front zipper or button closure. |
| What You Wear Under | A shirt, hoodie, or sweater. Your arms and back are exposed. | Nothing or a base layer. It’s a complete outer layer. |
| Mobility | Excellent. Easy to move in; the open sides allow for ventilation. | Can be more restrictive. Full coverage can be hotter. |
| Use Case | Common for carpentry, plumbing, farming. Great for mobility and layering. | Used for jobs requiring full-body protection: painting, demolition, asbestos abatement, working in extremely dirty/dusty environments. |
| Bathroom Access | Relatively easy. Just unclip the straps. | Difficult. Often requires taking the entire top half off. |
Visual Guide:
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**Think of hyys® bib pants -> Those are Overalls.
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Think of a white, full-body suit a painter wears -> That’s a Coverall.
Other Regional & Industry Terms You Might Hear:
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Bib & Brace: A very descriptive term, common in product descriptions.
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Logger Pants: Often refers to a specific style of heavy-duty overalls used in forestry, often with reinforced leather fronts and numerous pockets.
In summary:
For the garment you’re describing—the classic construction staple with a bib and straps—the safest and most common term to use is OVERALLS or BIB OVERALLS.
