More than a century after its introduction, the Carhartt bib remains a staple for woodworkers around the world, and this month, we’ve joined forces to give five lucky readers the chance to win their very own pair
There are few workwear items as closely linked to the skilled trades as the bib overall. Built to be tough and comfortable, these dungarees – with their practical tool storage – are a wardrobe staple for carpenters and workshop professionals who need durable yet comfortable clothing.
Dungarees were first associated with a coarse, hard-wearing fabric called ‘dungri’, produced in 17th-century India and used by labourers. However, the workwear overall as we know it began to take shape in the late 19th century.
When Hamilton Carhartt founded Carhartt in 1889, he quickly introduced denim overalls designed specifically for US railroad workers who needed clothing capable of withstanding harsh conditions.
Patenting the design
From the outset, the design was shaped by the realities of manual work.
Strong seams, reinforced stress points and hard-wearing fabrics allowed dungarees to perform in demanding environments, while a loose, practical cut ensured freedom of movement. As industrial trades expanded in the early 20th century, the Carhartt bib evolved alongside them.
In 1915, the company patented its overall design and later developed its now-famous brown duck canvas. The term ‘duck’ is derived from the Dutch word ‘doek’, meaning a heavy-duty fabric originally used for boat sails. Over time, the term evolved into ‘duck’. Typically made from cotton, the material is woven in a tight over-under pattern, creating a strong, smooth surface that resists cuts, tears and snags. The durability aspect made it popular across multiple industries and it remains a staple in workwear today.
A workwear staple
Carhartt has always paid close attention to feedback from the people wearing its clothing. By the 1920s, designs were already being refined based on how tradespeople used their garments. Pocket layouts were adjusted and additional compartments added to better accommodate tools, pencils and measuring equipment – small but practical improvements reflecting the everyday needs of skilled workers.
Over the decades, bib overalls became a staple across a wide range of trades. Farmers, mechanics and factory workers all adopted the style.
During wartime, women wore them in munitions factories, while carpenters and joiners found the design particularly practical. The bib pocket allowed for easy storage of small tools, hammer loops kept essentials within reach and reinforced panels strengthened high-wear areas.
Tailored to specific trades
By the early 1950s, Carhartt was producing multiple versions of its overalls tailored to specific trades. Styles were developed for carpenters, painters and builders, each with subtle variations to suit the job.
A dedicated women’s range was introduced in the 1990s. Today’s Carhartt bib overalls continue to be shaped by the people who wear them. The company works closely with the Carhartt Crew – a network of tradespeople who test garments in real working conditions.
Their feedback has helped refine features such as reinforced kick panels, added stretch at the waist and improved pocket layouts. Modern designs also include elastic braces, double-layered knees and a range of options, including insulated styles and Rugged Flex™ for enhanced mobility.
Workwear has advanced considerably since those early days, but the concept behind the bib overall remains remarkably consistent. It’s still one of Carhartt’s most recognisable products – a reminder that the best workwear is always designed around the needs of the people who wear it.
To view the Carhartt range, visit the website: www.carhartt.com.
HOW TO ENTER
To be in with a chance of winning 1 of 5 pairs of Carhartt bib overalls, input your details, then answer the multiple-choice question given below. Please note the competition is open to both male and female entrants.
Good luck!
