Jumpsuits, Rompers, Playsuits: Varieties and How to Wear Them
I have to admit that when I saw jumpsuit after jumpsuit appear on the Spring 2009 runways, I thought it was a trend that would stay there, never making it to street fashion. Even in researching for this post, I thought it would be difficult to find jumpsuits priced affordably. Boy, was I wrong! Jumpsuits, rompers and playsuits are EVERYWHERE! They’re so prolific, most stores are having a difficult time keeping them in stock. So, if you haven’t seen very many of them, that’s probably why. In this article, I’ll show inspiration from the runways and celebrities, discuss the different types of jumpsuits, provide a ‘how-to’ for wearing them and (of course) give you some different shopping options ranging from designer to super cheap.
Jumpsuits on the Runway
Shown: Chloé, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Ralph Lauren
Here are a few images from the runways. As you can tell even from this small sample, the styles of jumpsuits run the gamut from formal and conservative to casual and sexy.
Want more? Here’s a great collection of runway images from Coutorture.
Celebrities in Jumpsuits
Shown: Ana Ortiz in a fabulous black jumpsuit, Jennifer Hudson in a shiny cropped jumpsuit (see her wearing a different black jumper here), Kate Moss wearing a Topshop romper, Kate Hudson wearing a Romper by Stella McCartney
How To Wear Jumpsuits, Rompers and Playsuits
You might be asking what the difference is between jumpsuits, rompers and playsuits. The terms are often interchanged. Basically though, jumpsuits are long, rompers are short and playsuits are casual short suits.
How to Wear Rompers and Playsuits
Rompers and playsuits are generally easier to wear than jumpsuits because they’re often fuller. If you feel like your romper is a little too full and drapey, cinch your waist with a belt. For a dressy style, pair with heels and a matching clutch. Dress it down with a pair of gladiators.
How to Wear Jumpsuits
Pair with the right shoes: If your jumpsuit is ultra long, pair with flats to keep the attention on the jumpsuit. For cropped or 3/4 length, pair with tall heels to lengthen your legs.
Accessorize: Jumpsuits can be a bit overwhelming, boring or can even look like work coveralls if you don’t accessorize properly. Break the suit up with a different colored belt around your natural waist. Statement jewelry adds some pizazz to an elegant jumpsuit. Or, to dress down your suit, wear a blazer or cardigan.
Choose the right fit: With jumpsuits, it’s really important to choose the right fit. If the suit doesn’t fit properly, you’ll have bulges in places that are not flattering. Choose a style that fits your body well, draping and hugging your curves in the right places. You don’t have to be a size 2 to wear a jumpsuit, but you do need to find the right style if you’re lucky enough to have some curves.
Choose the right fabric: This goes with finding the right fit. Fabric can make a huge difference in how the jumpsuit fits your body. Clingy fabrics like silk will hug your curves more than stiffer fabrics like denim or cotton. Even jersey is a better option if you’re looking for something a little more forgiving.
Stick with solids: Though there are a few cute patterned jumpsuits, most make you look like you’re wearing wallpaper. If you’re a newbie to jumpsuits, stick with a solid color. A black jumpsuit can easily replace your LBD.
Best Jumpsuits To Buy
High-End Rompers
Shown: Anthropologie Romper ($128), Ella Moss Romper ($177), Bellatrix Silk Romper ($99)
Inexpensive Rompers
Shown: Forever 21 Ruffle Front Romper ($24.80), Forever 21 Satin Corset Romper ($24.80), Victoria’s Secret Linen Romper ($39.50)
High-End Jumpsuits
Shown: Anthropologie Jumpsuit ($288), Topshop Jumpsuit ($160), Allen Schwartz Jumpsuit ($185.90)
Inexpensive Jumpsuits
Shown:
Victoria’s Secret Silk Jumpsuit ($63.99), Forever 21 Jumpsuit ($24.80)
You should also try Urban Outfitters and Express for affordable jumpsuits and rompers. Urban Outfitters has a wide variety of cute, cozy rompers. Express has been selling out of their jumpsuits before they can even stock them in stores. Check on their website frequently for new choices.
Your Thoughts?
What do you think of the jumpsuit trend? Do you already own a jumpsuit or romper? If not, are you hoping to try one this season?
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May 19th, 2009 at 4:01 pm
I love your post, jumpsuits are my favorite trend this summer. I’ve already bought two rompers – one white from Ross for $7 and one brown from Victoria Secret for $5, but they are both very casual and probably perfect for the beach. I am still looking to find a long jumpsuits that can be matched with heels and work as a clubwear. I really liked the green one from the 1st picture and the Ralph Loren one – great finds!!!
May 20th, 2009 at 11:41 pm
Glad you liked the post! For long jumpsuits, keep checking with Express. They have some cute ones if you can catch them before they sell out!
June 2nd, 2009 at 7:59 pm
Can I wear a romper/jumpsuit if my thighs touch? I avoid wearing short- I do wear capris and bermuda/walking shorts and leggings w/tunics etc. I love the trend, just dont know how to make it work for me (I wear a 12/14 and am hour glass with bigger but and thighs.) Thanks!
June 3rd, 2009 at 5:32 pm
Sophia,
I think you can definitely rock the style. I’m thinking the two drop-waist rompers might work for you (the VS one and the Ella Moss). Or, what about the two wide-leg jumpsuits (the anthro and Allen Schwartz)? You might just go and try some on. Remember, most of rocking a style is confidence!
June 3rd, 2009 at 5:40 pm
Sophia–there are also some cute ones at Arden B that might work for you! Happy shopping!
June 8th, 2009 at 8:45 pm
thanks so much
I love your site so much I had to tell all my facebook friends!
June 12th, 2009 at 10:57 pm
i love your site!!
can i wear long cardigan with my jumpsuit?
thanks
June 14th, 2009 at 3:35 pm
Bernadette: Thanks!
Yeah, I think you can definitely wear a long cardigan with your jumpsuit!
June 15th, 2009 at 12:38 pm
[...] We haven’t really seen these since the late 80’s, but here they are again and much more stylish this time! Keep it simple and a tad drapey and you’re good. Shown: BCBGMaxAzria Here’s a detailed post on Jumpsuits, Rompers and Playsuits [...]
November 29th, 2009 at 8:49 am
i have a purple wideleg jumpsuit i got from asos but im having problems accessorizing to give a glam look for my birthday wear! Any ideas?
November 29th, 2009 at 5:08 pm
I would go with a long gold necklace, maybe with multiple strands. Gold dangle earrings and a wide gold cuff. Have a fabulous birthday!!
November 30th, 2009 at 10:39 am
Thank you so much for the idea. I had a gold belt and gold necklace to wear but i thought paired together would be overkill. I guess ill exclude the belt then.
Is wearing a black tailored blazer ok?
November 30th, 2009 at 10:40 am
Thank you so much for the idea! I had a gold belt and gold necklace to wear but i thought paired together would be overkill. I guess ill exclude the belt then.
Is wearing a black tailored blazer ok?
November 30th, 2009 at 11:12 am
I think that would be a great addition!
December 1st, 2009 at 10:58 am
I just woke up with a vision…I have a black rayon deep v romper with a sash however it is shorts not pants…so I am going to wear a textured body stocking/tights with it…maybe in black or possibly in a color…with my ankle boots ..my hair straight with bangs or maybe just a pony to look simple..of course I could only get a way with this at a girls night out gathering in DC. But I think it will look sexy and be cool enough to dance in and not have all hanging out…what do you think…
December 1st, 2009 at 11:04 am
Layoyia :: I think that would be an awesome outfit to wear to a club! I would go with black textured tights. Nordstrom and Urban Outfitters have some nice options. Are your ankle boots black, too? And, I vote for hair straight with bangs–keep your look sophisticated.
May 24th, 2010 at 8:20 pm
I found this adorable romper, very casual and a solid light blue. It’s a strapless one, and the fabric almost looks like denim but it’s lighter. My only dilemma is, as a teen, I don’t know where I would wear it. It looks like it would be a good beach outfit, but what else?
June 10th, 2011 at 4:25 am
This is gorgeous! I love the blue jumpsuit and the cute shoes with their pretty colour are the perfect combination.
November 20th, 2011 at 7:57 am
jumpsuits are so comfortable and fun. just watch the bathroom break mess that can happen if your out.
thanks
i like to wear my black one shouldre romper with tan wedges during the day and cant wait to try it with texture tights and class accessories