THEY FEEL LIKE A GODSEND WHEN YOU HAVE PANTSAND-A-NICEBLOUSE FATIGUE
Cstreamlined appeal of a dress but none of the upskirting/tightladdering liabilities.
They are looser and more forgiving around the waist than jeans, and anyone who has a power struggle with denim will understand how joyful and less daunting that feels. Worn alone with cupped sleeves or tucked underneath with a lightweight knit, they bridge the trans-seasonal gap. This time of year, they add just the right amount of cosiness and warmth for the first glimmer of spring. They also feel like a godsend when you have trousers-and-a-nice-blouse fatigue or you don’t have the brainpower for coordinating separates in a hurry. I’m a fan, if you haven’t guessed already! Mine is a sustainable find from Mango Committed. The lapel pockets and flared leg feel a bit Charlie’s Angels, not exactly my everyday go-to look, but I love all those 1970s nuances that sweep in and out of fashion.
I know I always say this but the fabric and shape are key. Too tight and they impinge on certain areas (trust me, camel toe is as uncomfortable as it is unflattering), too baggy and you’re veering into construction worker/pest control territory. Good quality design dictates a lot, which means you need to spend a little bit more and shop the kind of brands that care about their fabric compositions, and hit the right note with cut and craftmanship. I love Mango and Marks & Spencer’s organic cotton styles for everyday ease while & Other Stories and Ba&sh do contemporary utilitarian versions in flattering cuts that move wonderfully.
Styling-wise, do roll up the hemline if it’s a longer flared fit and go for a tapered cut if you’re petite (I’m five foot 9 and usually take note of the model’s height online before buying).
Colour-wise you can’t beat a structured dark blue denim or khaki green with trainers or, as the weather heats up, a canvas plimsoll/espadrille. I love how polished off-white and soft creams look for work/eveningwear although not all that practical if you’re a clumsy lunch eater and/or a hybrid office worker because you will absolutely need to hide from your kids. I’m a sucker for Isabel Marant’s softly tailored belted styles and on the high street Massimo Dutti and Sandro have similar versions that look really chic elevated with gold jewellery and heels.
Softer jewel tones look really elegant in silk or satin iterations, a lovely alternative to maxis/midis for wedding season. Phase Eight, Maje and french label Zadig & Voltaire in Kildare Village are all great for occasionwear classics that you’ll wear again and again.
I think it goes without saying that the least practical element of the jumpsuit is when nature calls. But it’s a small part of your day and the rest of it is significantly simplified by its wondrous versatility. Fashion meets function in the best possible way.