If there is any fashion piece overlooked, it is the jumpsuit. Brought into popularly by Chanel, the jumpsuit will always be relevant to fashion.
The simple style and versatility of a jumpsuit makes it an easy go-to staple piece because less time is spent fretting about “what should I wear today?” and more time doing things you love. Who doesn’t think that is appealing?
Which made me think, so why do we easily shy away from the jumpsuit?
Perhaps it’s because jumpsuits demand tailored attention to the details: the fit, style, color, cut. And with so many available styles, it can be quite intimidating. Isn’t it funny how one doesn’t know there is a problem until the problem is invented.
So, I have learned, through many trials and errors, returns and exchanges, which jumpsuit styles simply work and flatter my body shape. And once you know what works for your body type, the jumpsuit will become one of the most classic and easiest looks to pull off.
Choosing the right fit
A jumper should not be form fitting and hug every curve, unless you are dressing up as a superhero. With that said, it should also not be baggy or you will look sloppy. The key to a great fit is in knowing which brands and styles flatter your silhouette.
A wider leg gives an effortless casual look. If you have long slim legs (which we all want) you can easily pull off a wide leg and look great. For myself, I find the wide leg look can be challenging for petite women by making us appear shorter and wider. This is not to say that a wide leg jumpsuit look can’t be done on a petite frame.
The straight leg jumpsuit flatters most body types. The straight leg jumpsuit can easily be worn to formal or casual occasions. However, the key to any put together and polished clean look is the fit, cut, detailed tailoring.
Choosing the right fabric
As with the fit and cut, the choice of fabric will impact the overall shape as well as the time of day and season it can be worn. Choose quality material, not flimsy cheap material that will display your undergarments.
When buying online, always look at the type and quality of fabric used. Some good fabrics for jumpsuits are: linen, viscose (semi-synthetic rayon mixed with elastic), and polyester blends. For myself, I find viscose, linen, and polyester durable, yet comfortable for jumpsuit fabric because of it’s lightweight material which makes it ideal for hot and humid weather days.
The downsides of some fabrics are: linen will easily wrinkle and cotton will stretch and loose its shape over time. If wanting to wear cotton, choose a cotton polyester mix because it will retain its shape and last longer than cotton alone. When choosing a jumpsuit, choose one in which the fabric feels good and sits well on your figure.
The neutral or monochrome colors
Simple is beautiful. It is elegant. And it will always be classic. When choosing a neutral or monochrome color jumpsuit the cut, fabric, and fit is of greater importance.
Accessorizing will also be of greater importance if you choose a monochrome color. Leave the mixed colors, prints, and cut out jumpsuit trends for the young rebel rule breakers that can pull it off. For me, nothing has been more of a disaster by thinking I can break fashion rules without putting any effort or thought into an outfit.
The understated print
Jumpsuits with a single theme or floral prints blend best with a black, navy, or burgundy backgrounds and will flatter most figures. Striped prints are more versatile and look great on any color background. When choosing a print, choose one you absolutely love and can easily commit to.
In general, its best to steer away from busy and bright patterns. Busy patterns merged with bright colors can be overwhelming to the eye, unless you are a toddler. It seems that toddlers are the exception because they can easily pull this look off and still look adorable.
Pair it with a blazer
Always considered a necessary piece in the capsule wardrobe. A simple blazer can transform the look of a jumper making it suitable for work wear. Double breasted, single button, boyfriend, or short styled blazers work well to create a signature look. The blazer can also be used as an accessory by adding a hint or splash or color to a monotone jumpsuit.
Swap the shoes
The idea of a bright shoe paired with a navy, black or cream jumpsuit remains one of the best classic looks. What better way to add a splash of color to a monochrome jumpsuit by adding a colorful or whimiscal shoe. Whether is wedges, heels, ballet flats, flip flops, or tennis shoes, the shoes can set the stage for the look you want.
Accessorize
Because the jumpsuit requires a level of confidence and style to be worn for an evening event, choosing the right accessories and shoes is essential. Before choosing accessories, consider the event and fabric of the jumpsuit.
Hoop earrings and bracelet can be worn just about anywhere. Heels give a dressed-up look for evenings out. The key is to keep all accessories simple, using too many will overwhelm and derail from the overall look.With just a few accessories, jumpsuits can look stunning and handbags, earrings, bracelets or scarves will subtly stand out without looking like you are trying hard. When it comes to accessorizing it is more important to edit even when its easier to add. Because, after all, less is truly more.
The jumpsuit deserves a place in the wardrobe simply because of its unique appeal and versatility. Your jumpsuit choice should always compliment your personality, weather that translates into a style of a unique color or unusual print. Fashion is an expression of you. And when you find what works and looks good on you, follow and embrace it.
What is your favorite jumpsuit brand or pattern?
XOXO JC