Romper by YSL

Rompers (aka jumpsuits or onesies) first appeared on the fashion radar two summers ago. However, the trend has been slowly but surely picking up steam instead of gaining early momentum and then fizzling out. In fact, from the looks of the 2011 Resort runways, the trend is here to stay…at least into the next year.

With designers like Jill Stuart, Bottega Venetta, Chanel, Vena Cava, Alexander Wang, Marc Jacobs and Yves Saint Laurent including rompers in their collections – and in many cases more than one – rest assured that your purchase will not go to waste if you are considering adding one to your wardrobe.

Having just shopped for and purchased one myself during my trip to Madrid, Spain where tiny rompers on bra-less beauties is more the norm than the exception in the hot, hot weather, I feel informed enough to give some advice to those interested in taking the plunge.

Piece of Advice #1: Beware of the fit.
If you are tall or long in the torso, it may be hard to find the romper for you. (I think that this may be the first time in my fashion life that I have suggested that an item may not work for someone who is tall. One point for the short girls! But, I digress…)
Please make sure to try on any romper of interest! Waist detailing should fall at the natural waist, not dragged down to the hips or up to the bra-line due to an ill fit. Also, please make sure that there is ample breathing room so that there are no wardrobe malfunctions a la Janet Jackson in strapless rompers and so that your nether regions are not cradled so tightly that nothing is left to the imagination in rompers with straps.

Piece of Advice #2: Guidelines for casual rompers.
When you select a romper for casual-wear, I prefer them in a looser fit and a longer length. Also, I think they are best in a fun and of-the-moment print such as sailor stripes or feminine florals.
Pair them with bohemian strappy sandals, oxfords or booties, thin waist belts and fedoras. Throw on a cross-body bag or a drawstring bucket bag over your shoulder.

Piece of Advice #3: Guidelines for dressy rompers.
When you select a romper for dressy occasions and nights out on the town, feel free to go a little tighter and a little shorter to turn up the sexiness. (Or you can opt for the romper with full pant for head to toe drama…) Also, I would recommend solid colors such as black, bold jewel tones and fluorescent brights.
Accessorize with large envelope clutches and platform heels and wedges in metallics and patent leathers and embellish with collarbone-grazing statements necklaces and eye-catching cocktail rings.

Still not sure? Stop by your local Second Time Around to check out our wallet-friendly selections and get additional advice from our fashionable sales associates.
Happy Shopping!

~Marisa, Director of Styling, Second Time Around