I got the boilersuit and, unexpectedly, I think it’s the most flattering garment I own. It may be the most flattering garment I’ve ever owned.
Take all the time you need to process that statement.
For me, the realization was instant and now I have to decide what to do with that information.
Query: Should I find a job where I can wear a boilersuit everyday?
I did look into boilermaking and found myself on the website for the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders, Blacksmiths, Forgers and Helpers. They do so much more than make boilers, but I didn’t see skills (other than boilersuit-wearing) that were in my wheelhouse.
I think the boilersuit is working because it: (a) fits like a tailored, but not tight, catsuit and (b) by some miracle seems to be made to my measurements. Even the length of the arms and legs is just right.
Perhaps, dressed in this suit, I look ready for a little cat- burglary. Would the orange top-stitching give me away?
Come closer and absorb the details.
The waistband sits below my natural waist, but that’s how the designer intends it to sit.
Still, I felt I needed to add a belt, just for clarity.
In case you are thinking, The Directrice has lost her mind — let me assure you: I am not alone. Winston Churchill was a devotee of the boilersuit. He had many custom made for him by Turnbull & Asser, in a variety of fabrics including velvet (for dressy occasions) and serge (for business). Presumably, he had some made in practical fabrics for walking and painting, too.
Here is a rare shot: my behind. This photo is also out of focus, so I am using it over The Photographer’s objection.
I am including it for a reason — so you can see that the back pockets are sitting low, too low, on my body. But that’s how the kids are wearing them.
I did think about asking Fatima to raise the pockets, but realized that boilersuit alterations might be a next level that I do not want to attain.
Here is another perspective — crystal-clear — on the low-sitting pockets.
For those who want to be immersed in the details, here is the topstitching up close
The jaunty spread collar closes with a snap. Note: The boilersuit zips up — no buttons. Buttons probably would have been a dealbreaker. As noted in comments to a previous post, going to the bathroom in a boilersuit is not convenient.
This suit is made by Wild Fang, based in Portland, Oregon. The company was started by two women who worked at Nike, but left to pursue a vision of clothes that defied traditional gender norms. In addition to their design aesthetic and a passion for pockets, the company is committed to inclusion, sustainability, and philanthropy.
Boilersuit: Wildfang Essential Coverall
I’ve owned two jumpsuits (let’s call them the cousins of the boilersuit because they don’t have sleeves), for the last two years. I bought them inexpensively and then paid handsomely for alterations. They are the two most flattering items in my closet. One thought — Directrice how about wearing the boilersuit without the belt?
Omg! I have been eyeing this exact same boilersuit. Maybe I’ll take the plunge now that I’ve seen it on you!
The boilersuit looks great! It is tempting….However, I cannot break my vow to myself to never again wear a one piece jumpsuit, catsuit, romper –or boilersuit. The last time was 23 years ago, when I was pregnant. The thing was so comfortable and sleek, but I spent too much time trying to keep it off the floor of too many bathrooms to be able to handle it. Germaphobia won against fashion.
Incidentally, I have a similar problem with wide-legged pants. I do love them when they’re flowy, but they provide an element of stress in the above-mentioned setting.
Wow — I love this! The fit, the inky colour, the top-stitching! All so good. I’m uncertain about the belt, though. I do like it belted, however, I think the belt needs to be more on purpose, somehow. What about the yellow Weight Securing System belt? Maybe too industrial?
“ They do so much more than make boilers, but I didn’t see skills (other than boilersuit-wearing) that were in my wheelhouse.”
People have joined unions for less thoughtful reasons. Go for it.
I’m in love. And a zipper no less. And made an hour away from me… Must. Purchase. Now.
Holy smokes! You’re giving Diana Rigg and Elizabeth Hurley a run for their money — you look like the coolest spy in the world. Probably with expertise in and readiness to perform burglary, raves/nightclubbing, and whatever it is that ninjas do. Super hot!
wow, such a great fit! Last one I owned was kindergarten but I remember it well, sturdy green cotton, front zip. It was my favorite clothing item.
Looks terrific! The commentary is equally superb.
I just love the boilersuit! Not sure about that particular belt, but absolutely love the fit and style! And I want to hear more about when and where you wear it. At the urging of another member of The Directorate, I recently tried on a dark washed cotton jumpsuit at Banana Republic, and while I loved the look and feel, I couldn’t imagine where I’d wear it.
That fits really well. You got lucky!
I might go for a belt with a brass buckle, just to keep with the copper topstiching. It’s a great addition and keeps it from looking like you’re wearing the baggy on the butt style of pants.
It’ll be great for the outdoorish events that seem to be persisting as COVID lingers on. Have you tried it with a fluffy vest?
Dear Directress, It’s been a long time since you’ve posted. Where are you?
Miss you!
I’ll be back soon — next week. I wanted to give everyone time to sit with the boilersuit.
Hi Tori I have emailed you re the money I have sent via PayPal (venmo doesn’t work in Australia. ) but I don’t know if you are receiving my emails?
Hi Katie — I wrote to you in November — maybe my email landed in your spam? I re-sent it. Hopefully you’ll see it your email box.