The unmistakably trendy jumpsuit is the answer to my daily fashion dilemmas. Although it may appear as an effortless choice for day or night, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Finding the right jumpsuit means finding a fabric that flows perfectly and a cut that sits in all the right places. It’s an unforgiving item of clothing, so if it doesn’t fit perfectly, it’s best to move on and find one that does.
Only yesterday, a Lulu-Mom (a mom dressed in head-to-toe Lululemon) almost knocked over her Kale-Aid at True Food Kitchen just to come over and ask me who designed my jumpsuit. That was just after the hostess at the front desk asked the same question (without taking her eyes off her iPad). It seems to happen every time I wear one.
It’s possible that my look is so outlandish (or clown-like) it warrants enough attention to become a conversation starter, something only warranted in my book by shoes and cocktail rings. But I’ll give these fashion voyeurs the benefit of the doubt and assume the jumpsuit is something they’ve had on their mind in the fashion zeitgeist.
I’m often on the other end of this sort of conversation so I like to give GPS-like answers to those brave enough to come over and ask. I replied that I bought it last month, but that it has since been moved to the sale rack at the back of the store and as of yesterday, they only had two left in an extra small. I won’t apologize about it, but that’s just the kind of valuable information that I store in my brain. So, what are you waiting for?
Jump on it.
True Blue
Technically, it’s called a romper, but the long sleeves and the formal wrap over style make it elegant enough to classify as a short jumpsuit. The color is striking, and the cut is amazing. All you need is your highest black heels and a clutch for a night out on the town. Hakke wrap playsuit by Ted Baker, South Coast Plaza, $275.
:: tedbaker.com
Wing It
Nothing makes a statement like a patterned jumpsuit. I’m in love with this subtle “wing dance mini new apricot” pattern by Diane Von Furstenberg, who’s great at patterns that are just right. This silk jumpsuit is fun with an elegant cut. Wear it with a cuff, in honor of the iconic designers love of large bangles. Available at Diane Von Furstenberg, South Coast Plaza, $465
:: dvf.com
So Touchy
Terre Jacobs’ clothing line, Feel The Piece, is designed for comfort and layering, two of my favorite words in fashion. It also doesn’t hurt that her hubby, Jeff Rudes, is founder and CEO of J Brand; but then again, great minds think alike. The jumpsuit is made of the softest jersey, with a built-in racer back tank top that keeps the drawstring waistline looking sleek, all complete with a tapered leg. I give it a 10/10 for comfort, which means I don’t want to take it off. Dolman sleeve jumpsuit by Feel The Piece, available at The Red Balloon, Newport Beach, $198.
Do’s and Don’ts of Wearing a Jumpsuit
Do …
1. Wear a fitted blazer over your jumpsuit to give it a more polished, formal look.
2. Wear your highest heels with a flare-legged jumpsuit that’s long enough to cover some of your heel. If it’s too long, get it hemmed professionally, and if it’s too short, keep looking until you find one that’s long enough.
3. Opt for a simple black jumpsuit. When in doubt, you’ll get plenty of mileage out of it. And wear it instead of your little black dress.
4. It pains me to say this, since I consider myself a bargain hunter, but do spend the most you can on it. It’s rare to find a bargain and a jumpsuit in the right size at the same time.
Don’t…
1. Wear a jumpsuit that fits tight all over; those are made of spandex and are called catsuits.
2. Over accessorize with too much jewelry. The jumpsuit is a statement itself, and less is always more. Limit yourself to one piece of jewelry.
3. Go for a head-to-toe, tuxedo or denim jumpsuit unless you’re less than two years old. And avoid orange jumpsuits, for obvious reasons.
4. Buy a jumpsuit that needs a manual in order to figure out how to wear it or one that’s difficult to take off. You’ll thank me when it’s time to visit the bathroom.
