How to Style a Jumpsuit

Rosie the Riveter may have worn her jumpsuit for utilitarian reasons, but it has since become one of the most easy-to-wear outfits for any occasion. It’s made consistent appearances on runways since the 60’s from Yves Saint Laurent, Guy Laroche, and even Michael Kors, who can attest to its’ chic versatility when he dressed Goldie Hawn at Lothar’s before he was famous.

But how do you choose a jumpsuit in 2021? With styles ranging from denim jumpsuits, polka dots (currently drooling over this gorgeous polka dot jumpsuit), casual jumpsuits and even fit jumpsuits (like Cher from Clueless), it can be a little overwhelming to style.

Though I have several jumpsuits, I’ve found that my pink and green print Chloe French Mauve jumpsuit is the most versatile because of the silhouette. Finding a silhouette that looks amazing on you will make all the difference when styling your look.

I wore my jumpsuit outfit 4 ways so you can see how easy it can be to transform this runway look to street style.

1. Add a layer underneath

I color blocked my silky jumpsuit with a silky collared blouse from Amanda Uprichard for a fun pop of color. Silk can look very formal for daily wear, so I paired it with Ecco white sneakers (no longer available, but I’m loving these) to dress it down. Flat sandals in a solid color would also be a great choice for making a look a little less formal.

 

Not sure how to color block? It’s easier than you think. Just use a color wheel. I used a triad color combo (green/pink/yellow) for my look.

2. Wear heels and define your waist

This look makes the jumpsuit the star of the show. One of the things I love most about this jumpsuit is its’ ankle length and wide leg (jumpsuit). It just begs for some high heels (or heeled sandals) and a great belt. I chose a Carolina Herrera belt with a square buckle to accentuate my waist and break up the pattern, but it would also look cute with a skinny belt and a peep toe heel for an elegant night out.

I love this feminine look because it takes so little effort to look polished. Want to take the same look to the next level? See #3.

Remember your footwear can elevate any outfit for a formal event or bring it back down to the beach (look #4) with this simple choice.

3. Add a Jacket

The minimalist styling from #2 is easy to layer with any jacket or vest. I chose a long wool vest from Max Mara but you could also do a denim jacket, leather jacket, blazer, or duster cardigan.

A leather jacket will always make an outfit edgy, so play with colored leather if you want to soften that hard and soft play. Add statement earrings for that extra pizzazz.

A blazer adds sophistication to an outfit–a jumpsuit is no exception. Currently loving the dickey blazer from Veronica Beard, a classic choice, and adds the layered look without the extra weight of a hoodie underneath the blazer. Dickeys also look just a little less formal than a plain blazer.

4. Make it slouchy

You can tie a button down with long sleeves like I did, or your favorite music tee, tie a shirt around your waist, or even wear a jumpsuit like pants by covering the top completely.

I dressed down this look with flat sandals, but anytime you wear flats you’ll likely dress down the look. The exception would be a Gucci Princeton Leather Slipper, which would be fabulous with this wide leg jumpsuit.

Go ahead and break the rules! Exhibit A: For my headband, I decided to repurpose the belt that came with my French Mauve Jumpsuit.

The fun thing about fashion is you can reimagine ways to wear a garment constantly. The same goes for jewelry. If you aren’t used to reimagining how to wear something, try wearing your favorite long necklace short with a button down shirt to start. I did this in look #2.

A slouchy style with a music tee would look great with boots. Add a leather baseball cap for a casual day out.

How do you style a jumpsuit? Do you like a pattern or prefer a solid black or white jumpsuit?

Tell me below or use #livingplum on Instagram.