TWO SKIRTS FASHION FRIDAY: JUMP INTO SPRING

22 Mar TWO SKIRTS FASHION FRIDAY: JUMP INTO SPRING

I remember my mother’s jumpsuits.  The rolled-sleeve, belted mustard in cotton sateen; the soft jersey one with black bottoms, multi striped top and red patent belt; and the classic navy crepe.  I remember how she loved these jumpsuits— for the same reasons I love dresses—the comfort, the ease, the waistline and the “no decision-making dressing.”  She continued to talk about jumpsuits over the decades, yearning for the time to wear one again. Well mom, the time has come.

Jumpsuits are in again for spring. Designer Yves Saint Laurent is leading the way, as he has been for decades; his sleek jumpsuits are a statement in black. Other designers such as Diane Von Furstenberg, Paul & Joe, Tucker and The Row have followed suit with jumpsuits that pop in a variety of colors and prints.

A jumpsuit was originally just that: a one-piece garment worn by skydivers and parachuters.  In the 1960’s, 70’s and 80’s, the jumpsuit shifted to the streets and became a popular fashion for everyone. Celebrities like Elvis Presley sported jumpsuits; Disco and “Star Trek” were defined by them.

If you’re buying a jumpsuit, start with a dark color. Black is best but grey and navy will do, too. Leave the neon, bright, and print jumpsuits for the runway or red carpets.  With a solid, dark jumpsuit, you’ve got a great outfit, day or night. By day, work a suit with a full or short sleeve, minimal jewelry and a large satchel.  Footwear is key here so as not to look like a mechanic. Choose wedges over Toms or Chucks.

By night, sexy sleeveless jumpsuits abound with plunging necklines or open backs like Rebecca Taylor’s (see photo).  Add on jewelry, high heels, and a glitzy clutch for a more dramatic evening effect. Since jumpsuits have always had a futuristic connotation, it makes sense that the trend resurfaces again and again. So have fun with it and “jump” into this trend.