Jump for joy
Hello, hello! I’ve been absent for a few weeks as I’ve been making the most of the good weather in London and trying to spend time with the teens before they go back to school in September (hip, hip, hooray!). One is very excited about seeing her friends again; the other is a little anxious about starting at a new sixth form.September for me is always full of excitement, as it marks the beginning of autumn fashion, trends and new styles in stores and on-line. As I know from experience, the early bird catches the worm – if there’s something you LOVE this season and it fills a gap in your wardrobe, buy it – key pieces sell out quickly. One item of clothing clients say they would most love to wear for autumn/winter but find difficulty purchasing, is a jumpsuit. It really is the trickiest thing to get right as there are three parts to address: your body shape, proportions and scale.
There are many jumpsuits to choose from and I would go for one which you can wear in lots of different ways: mum-on-the-run; power-dressing for work; a night out; and a special event, such as a wedding. In the image above, I’ve styled my new Baujken black ‘Emory’ jumpsuit three ways. It’s 100% lyocell, which means it’s a breathable, soft fabric with a lovely drape which feels comfortable on. I like the texture of the weave, too. Currently available in all sizes, I’ve sized up. It’s £159, but you’ll get 20% off with code FERONCLARKSTYLE20, click here. I’m 5ft 5” and it’s long in the leg and sleeves, which you can roll up or down.
A few things to consider when purchasing your jumpsuit:
1. If it’s an investment buy, consider one in a solid colour in one of your most-flattering neutral shades instead of black. That way it won’t date and can be worn with lots of other neutrals or colours.
2. Make sure you can get in and out of it easily and quickly! No fiddly buttons and zips.
3. If you are high-waisted (long rise and average-to-short legs) make sure there’s no camel toe (sorry to have to mention this!).
4. If you decide to buy one, take it home and create at least three different looks/outfits with it before deciding to keep it. That way you’ll get lots of value for your money.
5. Check the fabric composition and washing instructions – dry cleaning isn’t an option. Whatever the style, your jumpsuit shouldn’t be tight. The power of the piece doesn’t come from looking like Catwoman – channel a looser, more effortless vibe. With a dressy jumpsuit, focus on your waistline, making sure it nips in at the smallest part of your body and gives the illusion of two pieces with the ease of one.
Here are three more jumpsuits in neutral colours and in predominately natural fibres which are currently available in all sizes:
1. Whistles Lacey Pocket Detail Jumpsuit, Dark Grey, £111.20
2. Mint Velvet Belted Short Sleeved Boilersuit, Beige, £119.00
3. All Saints Vola Short Sleeved Boiler Jumpsuit, Navy Blue, £189.00
What’s the difference between a jumpsuit and a boilersuit?
I get asked this question a lot! A boilersuit is a one-piece garment with full-length sleeves and legs like a jumpsuit, but usually less tight-fitting. Its main feature is that it has no gap, i.e. no defined waistband, between the top/jacket and trousers/bottom half. However, the style lines are definitely blurred as brands call jumpsuits ‘boiler suits’ when strictly speaking they’re not.
Need help buying the perfect jumpsuit? Please get in touch as I can help via my inbox outfit service or personal shopping. Enjoy the rest of August.
Best wishes
Anita x
