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  • Writer's pictureWhitney Wisdom

America's Most Beloved Suit


Made for motion.

I have a big claim to stake: Jumpsuits are #1. Earlier this week I posed a simple question: “What do you love about jumpsuits?” The majority of responses were “EVERYTHING.” Just like that, in all caps and the feeling of passion behind it. In this article we are jumping into everything that is loved about jumpsuits; why they are better than rompers, and course, top 2020 styles. Prefer your pants and top with separate hemlines for um, bathroom purposes? I’ll tackle that too.


Purpose: Besides being ultra chic, the main reason jumpsuits caught on in such a big way in the mid 2010s is because they provide women with mobility. It’s a common theme in fashion history: women using their clothing to physically decrease restrictions and make themselves more comfortable. Ever have an urge to do a cartwheel in a LBD, or jump on a trampoline in a denim mini skirt? In a jumpsuit you can do all that and more without giving passerbys a show. I like to sit and be comfortable without having to worry about crossing my ankles tight, you know? Plus you never know when a gust of wind will strike (it’s never as glamorous as Marilyn made it look).


Roots: It is interesting to see that jumpsuits nowadays are mainly seen as an alternative to dresses - specifically formal maxi length dresses. Jumpsuits were invented for quite the opposite, rigorous tasks. As you may know jumpsuits are so durable that they were first designed for parachuters in 1919. During World War II women wore jumpsuits so they could complete their jobs and in the 70s jumpsuits were the uniform of hippie culture. The common thread here is again, comfort and functionality; the only two pillars of getting dressed in 2020.


Free to run.

Style Wisely: I’ve always been a fan of the concept: return to roots; specifically for changing times. Through the rest of 2020 and into 2021 the jumpsuit will not be as prominent in the nightwear and feminine sectors and instead, will transition with the times. It will be worn casually and more easily than a arciac blouses and trousers. For time spent at home a jumpsuit is your ticket to looking and feeling like you tried when really you put on one piece - a quicker change than pajamas. The structure of a jumpsuit takes on prints like no other, limiting necessary accessories to some earrings and a thin bracelet. Instead of blowing all my money on floaty patterned pants, I rewear jumpsuits with a pull on sweater or button up collared shirt on top to completely change the look. Or, a more functional option: layer said sweater, collared shirt, or ribbed knit top under a tank top jumpsuit.





For newbies a halter jumpsuit in a solid but vibrant color (May I suggest classic blue?) with leg-lengthening wedges and a pair of hoops is high voltage. Yes, I know, halters are mainly for summer but doodle outside the lines with an off-the-shoulder snow bunny style top underneath. I find halter jumpsuits easiest to take off and go to the bathroom for two reasons. 1. No straps dangling, just pull the fabric over your head. 2. Halter jumpsuits usually don’t have a button, hook-and-eye, small zipper, or any other hazardous entrapment that may lead you, a grown adult to have an accident.


As for those who are already firm believers in the power of jumpsuits, ask yourself: How can you return to root? I interpret this as taking a garment from its historical context and making it now. Making it you. Looking to color and fabric is a great start. 70s inspired mocha brown, rust, and burgundy in suede or corduroy provide a wow factor today. Add clogs and you’re an icon.


Kristen and I met 5 years ago when I emailed her for a sorority date. She loves this blog because it made my Instagram.

Attack On Rompers: Rompers are the store brand jumpsuit. They are often lumped together merely because they are both a one piece bifurcated garment. Rompers were designed for children to play in the 1950s. It makes sense that they were made for a messy child because they are always way too short. (Even for short people.) I’m about sophistication, therefore I am less about rompers and more about jumpsuits.


Through the greater part of the 20th century we’ve seen jumpsuits come and go and reincarnate to adapt to changing lifestyles. How exhausting! This time around, let’s ensure the genderless garment is here to stay.


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