bib and tucker

American  

noun

1. clothes.

   to dress in one's best bib and tucker.

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bib and tucker British  

noun

1. informal an outfit of clothes (esp in the phrase best bib and tucker )

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Etymology

Origin of bib and tucker

First recorded in 1740–50

Example Sentences

Melbourne proudly put on its best bib and tucker for the local girl who made good.

From Time Magazine Archive

Mr. Nason and his sister are coming here Monday," said she to Aunt Susan, "and we must put on our best bib and tucker, I suppose.

From Uncle Terry A Story of the Maine Coast by Munn, Charles Clark

Since then, imagination has been at play; and, in accordance with its suggestions, his bib and tucker have been donned, as trusty adjutants to the formidable wooden spoon.

From Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine — Volume 56, No. 346, August, 1844 by Various

"Sure, child; wear your best bib and tucker, if you like, but I like you better in your play-clothes."

From Marjorie at Seacote by Wells, Carolyn

Before the Doctor could reply, around the corner of the house, bringing little Kenyon Adams in his best bib and tucker, came the lofty figure of Mrs. Nesbit.

From In the Heart of a Fool by White, William Allen