JUMP INTO ACTION

Jumpsuits and all-in-ones are massive for spring. And yes, you can wear one. Stephanie Smith has tips.
By The Newsroom
Published 17th Mar 2010, 09:36 BST
Updated 17th Mar 2010, 09:37 BST

I don't see what all the fuss is about jumpsuits.

I mean, they are easy to wear, flattering to all figures and very comfortable, so what's not to like?

Perhaps it's the utility aspect of the all-in-one that some people can't get to grips with? Granted, we don't all want to look as if we spend our days covered in grease beneath a dripping car (although this worked well for Kylie Minogue in Neighbours), nor do we want to appear in search of either blocked drains or a parachute, but that's no excuse to dismiss an entire fashion trend – especially one that is so darned versatile.

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Boldness and panache are needed here. The secret is to pick your all-in-one with care and then accessorise with flair. Jumpsuits are available in an astonishing variety of cuts and lengths and moods, from loose to snug, from full-length to short, from casual to formal and from cute to sophisticated, so choose one that really suits your figure. Petites should consider playsuits (short all-in-ones) and wear them with opaques. Curvy figures can choose ones that skim over curves (harem pants are perfect for pear shapes, in the same way that ballgowns are), but make sure you cinch your waist with a lovely wide belt. For summer, cropped jumpsuits will be just the thing, to wear with pumps and sandals. There are some sweet floral ones coming, and khaki utility versions can look street-chic, layered with T-shirts and long cardigans.

Shown on the catwalks by designers including Etro, Lanvin and Julien Macdonald, the High Street has really taken up the jumpsuit trend and run with it. Marks and Spencer, in particular, has come up with some excellent and varied takes on the jumpsuit, which will be released throughout the season. Check out the cream, harem-style one shown here.

Silk and silk jersey provide luxe comfort, so seek out all-in-ones in black and neutral tones, which you can accessorise with gleaming gold jewellery, bag and teetering sandals for evening, but dress down with flats and jackets for day. Pile on the bangles. For a key look for the season, a sleek black or cream silk jumpsuit worn with a statement yoke-style necklace will suit just about everyone.

As I said, what's not to like?

GET THE LOOK

1. Black diamante jumpsuit, from 60 at www.Fiftyplus.co.uk.

2. Butterfly jumpsuit, 38; T-bar sandals, 35. From Next.

3. Utility look from Warehouse: Dress 60; pocket belt, 22; jumpsuit, 60; bag, 18.

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4. Bow headband, 29; bikini top, 39; toadstool brooch, 29; raspberry necklace, 49; ladybird cuff, 39; Georgia jumpsuit, 139; crochet socks, 5; fringed clogs, 119. All NW3 collection at Hobbs.

5. Black strapless jumpsuit, in S,M,L, 40; gladiator wedges, sizes 7-11, 50; necklace, 318. All from Long Tall Sally and www.longtallsally.com or 0844 573 6885.

6. Blue jumpsuit, 39.50, in store next month; hat, 12; shoes 29.50, in store this month. Marks & Spencer Limited Collection.

7. Grey volume jumpsuit, 55; belt, 15; bangles, 7.50 and 12; shoes, 29.50. All from Marks & Spencer.

8. Gold twist necklace, 40, at www.Kaleidoscope.co.uk.

9. Bangles, from 45, at Hobbs.

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10. Black Metamorphosis jumpsuit, 40 from Monsoon Fusion range, in store this month.

11. Metallic gladiator shoes, 15, George at Asda.

12. Cobalt blue silk jumpsuit, 235, Stefanel purple animal print silk scarf (worn as belt), 80. DKNY. At House of Fraser.

13. Acid print jumpsuit, 80, by F&F Couture at Tesco Clothing,

the new high-end range going in

store now.