How to Style a Jumpsuit
A jumpsuit, also known as a romper, is like that go-to outfit you can pull on in a pinch. Its all-in-one shape creates one unbroken vertical line that elongates the body and is flattering for most body types.
The right neckline can draw the eye up to the bust and define the waist, while tailored pants complement slim legs. You can also experiment with outerwear such as shrugs and blazers.
Origins
The jumpsuit got its start as practical workwear, outfitting parachute jumpers who needed durable, one-piece coveralls to protect themselves from ripping and falling debris. It eventually found its way into women’s closets as they took over traditionally male jobs during World War II (think Rosie the Riveter). And in the 1930s, Italian fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli began to feature it in her avant-garde collections.
During the ’60s, however, jumpsuits really started to take off as both functional and fashion-forward attire. They were a popular alternative to dresses for hippies who favored androgynous styles, especially with men like Elvis Presley and David Bowie wearing them on stage. It was also around this time that the term “jumpsuit” started to be used as a synonym for the garment.
Today, the jumpsuit is still an incredibly versatile wardrobe item that can be dressed up for the red carpet or worn casually with a pair of jeans or sneakers. While some e-commerce sites lump it in with dresses, others like Shopbop give it a dedicated category alongside skirts and jeans. The style also continues to inspire designers like Stella McCartney and Marc Jacobs, who have both sent it down the runway in recent years. Plus, New Zealand labels such as El Jay, Love Story, Peppertree and Roystyles for Miss Hebe have also been playing with the silhouette, offering designs with unique details like high necks, self-covered fabric belts or wide legs.
Styles
Women can wear jumpsuits in many styles and occasions. It can be a great choice for a casual outing with friends or for a party. It is also a convenient outfit to wear when traveling. Unlike dresses, jumpsuits can be easily put on and removed and they are more comfortable to wear than trousers. Moreover, they are extremely versatile jumpsuit and can be worn with heels or flats. You can even add a kimono or a cape to your jumpsuit to create a more stylish look.
A black jumpsuit is a good option for those who want to look bold and sexy. It can be worn for formal events or even for a day out. It is also a great outfit for summer, as it is made up of extremely lightweight fabric.
A lace jumpsuit is another option for those who want to look glamorous. It is perfect for those with slim or petite frames, as it can elongate the body and make them appear taller. If you want to dress up your jumpsuit, consider adding some jewelry. You can choose from a wide range of accessories, including necklaces, bracelets, and rings.
When shopping for a jumpsuit, it is important to choose the right length. This is especially true if you plan to wear it with heels. It is better to try it on with heels before buying, so you can be sure that the length is perfect. Otherwise, you may have to have it hemmed later on.
Fabrics
The fabric used to make a jumpsuit will affect its style, casual or formal, and how it fits the wearer. Lightweight and drapey fabrics such as silk, linen, or double gauze are ideal for summery jumpsuits, while heavier materials like cotton or denim will give them a rugged, functional look.
The jumpsuit was first worn as utilitarian apparel by aviators and soldiers for its quick-dressing convenience, but became popular in the 1930s when designers such as Elsa Schiaparelli incorporated them into her collections. The 60’s saw the rise of jumpsuits in popular culture, when icons such as Mick Jagger and David Bowie wore them as their famed personas, Freddie Mercury and Ziggy Stardust.
While jumpsuits can be worn for almost any occasion, they can especially stand out at formal events and on the beach. Dressier jumpsuits, such as the one pictured above, are often made of luxurious silks or jumpsuit satins to create a chic, glamorous look. Jumpsuits also work well in the workplace, when they are crafted from neutral-colored fabrics or tailored to a more conservative style. For more casual events, the wide-leg jumpsuit pictured above can be crafted from comfortable cotton or linen and dressed up with jewelry, shoes, and accessories for a stylish outfit. If you want to try your hand at sewing your own jumpsuit, check out this free pattern for a wide-leg jumpsuit, available in sizes A-H (UK 6-20). Make sure to follow the seam allowance instructions provided by the designer to ensure that your finished garment will fit perfectly.
Length
When shopping for a jumpsuit, take your measurements before you buy. This includes hip, waist, and bust dimensions, as well as the length of your pant leg. Since jumpsuits are so full-body, it is important to get these measurements to ensure that your outfit fits properly. It’s also wise to check the pattern’s ease allowance, which will vary between patterns. Adjust this amount if you plan to wear long underwear or thick sanitary napkins underneath your jumpsuit.
The length of a jumpsuit can make or break its overall look. The right length is a matter of personal preference, but some women may find a shorter style to be less flattering on their legs. In this case, they might want to consider a long romper or getting it tailored to their height.
Wide-leg jumpsuits, on the other hand, can be extremely flattering for women with short legs. The flare at the bottom of the pants will draw attention to their length and elongate the leg. This is especially true if the fabric is made from a stretchy material that will “grow” with your body to create a slimming silhouette.
Regardless of its length, a jumpsuit is a great choice for women who prefer to dress up in an easy-to-wear outfit that can be worn at any occasion. It’s also a stylish option for women who have trouble finding clothing that fits properly, such as petite frames. Celebrities like Myleene Klass, Kristen Stewart, and Gal Gadot have been seen wearing jumpsuits in a variety of styles.
