Photo: Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images
No, you haven't entered the Twilight Zone -- this blast from the past has truly returned. The jumpsuit has been spotted all over runways during the last several seasons for both winter and summer, dressed down or glammed up for a night out. You don't have to bust out your disco moves, but this is definitely a trend worth trying. Of course, if you want to get your '70s groove on while wearing your jumpsuit, that's fine, too.
Jump Into the Jumpsuit
Let's start with the most basic of questions: "What the heck is it?" The jumpsuit is an all-in-one pants and shirt combo. It's similar to a romper but offers long-legged options in addition to shorts. The top can be of the tank top, T-shirt or long-sleeved varieties, as well as pretty much anything in between. The most defining feature of the jumpsuit, though, is the'70s-inspired pant styles. Jumpsuits come almost exclusively in one of two varieties: the ultra-wide leg or the thin, tapered leg. There's little in between in the jumpsuit world.
Finding Your Fit
Always make sure people can see you within all that fabric. A defined waistline is absolutely essential in an all-in-one style such as the jumpsuit. If your jumpsuit doesn't have a belt, throw one on around the thinnest part of your waist. If your jumpsuit does have a waistband, make sure it comfortably falls at your natural waist without tugging at the crotch or chest. Finally, accentuate your best assets. If you're busty, a long-sleeved top allows you to wear a supportive bra but can provide a flattering V-neck. For pear-shaped ladies, a halter or tank top will accentuate your teeny shoulders, and wide-legged pants will disguise your heavier bottom half.
Choose Your Materials Wisely
With jumpsuits running the gamut from beachy and casual to silky and dressed up, choosing the right material will make a big impact on the appropriateness of your look. A silky black number will always be perfect for evening, but playful patterns on an evening-appropriate fabric like satin or silk can work for more formal occasions, too. If you're looking for a daytime look, plain cotton in a bright color or with a flirty floral is the fashion-forward alternative to a summer dress. Sheer fabrics are another major trend, but can seem overwhelming for your own wardrobe. To make a sheer material work off the runway, wear it as a bathing suit cover-up or with spandex shorts and a tank or bandeau top underneath (neon is eye-catching and works the color-blocking trend).
Add On the Accessories
When it comes to footwear, one option will never steer you wrong: platforms. These thick-soled essentials are the ultimate '70s shoe, so they complement a jumpsuit perfectly. Don't rule out skinny heels, though, as they, too, have their place. For an evening look, skinny heels with a tapered leg add a touch of elegance and class to a simple look. Sandals or flats can work with wide-legged versions of these pants if you just can't do the added height, but they look silly and stocky with a tapered pant. Multicolored bangles and extra-large shades finish this look and help keep the retro vibe alive.
