The Style Files - All In One

The jumpsuit a de rigueur fashion staple of the Sixties and the Eighties, is firmly back on the fashion radar. Designers like Balmain added a disco-tinged twist, Elie Saab added sheer paneling , Jenny Packham (Kate Middleton's go to designer for high octane glamour) featured satin jumpsuits with jewel overtones, Valentino wowed with lace. Some designers put an emphasis on the waist with a tailored belt while others created a slim silhouette with panel details. One thing all the featured 2014 jumpsuits had in common though was a more masculine silhouette than we've seen in the past. Recently  the jumpsuit has made the transition from fashion life to real life. The one-piece outfit merits status as a wardrobe staple.

Courtesy: Avirate

This runway look is not your country cousin's overalls, it's all sleek sophistication, a piece that's versatile and no-fuss. Designers have created one-pieces in elegant fabrics eager to replace your little black dress and are perfect for when your next beach wedding or cocktail party comes around. The jumpsuit is more versatile than ever and is the answer to the all-purpose dress. Wear it with ultra-tall heels to cancel out the frump factor. A sporty drawstring details add definition or you could inject a touch of glamour with sequined detailing.

For summer, we suggest selecting a jumpsuit in a vibrant colour or bold print to brighten up your look. Keep it long for evening events or short for heat busting daywear style. Lace jumpsuits continue to be on trend for the season, especially as essential party attire. Floral prints and white styles are perfect for summer and, even if you’re a little lukewarm towards the trend, the jumpsuit has an undeniable practicality, no stressing about the perfect top to match your bottoms or vice-versa.

Courtesy: MANGO

The most critical aspect of a jumpsuit isn’t fabric, print, colour or silhouette it’s proportion.  Proportion can make or break a jumpsuit. Too voluminous on the leg and it could swallow up the wearer; too long, and they look sloppy! Whether it’s gathered at the hip, cinched at the waist or has ruching it absolutely has to hit at just the right place in order to look good.

That all important proportion can be nailed by choosing just the right heel height. Once you've picked your jumpsuit, the rest of your work is easy and fun. For short styles, consider fun flat sandals or heels with laces that travel up your calf, or opt for a simple ballet flat.  For a more red carpet or cocktail look whether it has a leg that’s relaxed, wide, gathered at the ankle/cuffed or cropped – it will look better with a pair of sky scrapper heels. Go with some elevation.

Courtesy: MANGO

There are  so many styles out there to pick from try one with tapered leg, all-over floral or graphic print.  You could opt for a color-blocked version that gives the illusion of a separate top and bottom. The classic black (LBJ: long black jumpsuit).  Sleeveless, strapless, long- sleeved, thin-strapped or halter-necked the styles are endless with something to suit any shape. Remember when it comes to your all in one and there are no real hard and fast rules, have some fun with it!