OOTD: Jump! Jump!

For as long as I can remember, "the rules of fashion" for the full figured woman have always been way more extensive and debilitating, than "the rules of fashion" set forth for the "average-sized" woman. Elements such as horizontal stripes, bold prints and tapered jeans were deemed an absolute "NO NO" in our realms, and going against such restrictions were a surefire way to land yourself on a worst dressed list and/or reap the silent - and sometimes not so silent - ridicule of the anonymous passerby...EEK!

But with plus sized fashion rapidly evolving, the rules aren't just changing, they are EVAPORATING! And with the plus sized customer becoming ever more fashion savvy and conscious, retailers are now scrambling to provide new and innovative fashion for this consumer...even if that means breaking some of their...eh hemmm...previously implemented rules....

While the jumpsuit is certainly no stranger to fashion (think 1980's, David Bowie, mechanics, and prisoners across the United States....HA!), it - and it's sweet little play cousin, "the romper" - is certainly a breath of fresh air for the full figured fashion femme fatale. And now with options for day play or an evening out, this trend might be just the addition your closet needs! Last week, I had an event to attend and decided to take my latest gem of a jumpsuit find out for a spin! Not only was it SUPER comfortable but, I can't even begin to tell you how much praise and how many compliments I received on this "gutsy" (direct quote) look...

Icon Collection woven zip-front jumpsuit, $99.99 available at Lane Bryant.com

Icon Collection Ponte Boyfriend Blazer, Lane Bryant

Black Pinched Clutch Bag, Target

Dolce Vita Leather Platform Pumps, Love My Shoes

Gold Wire Hoop Earrings, Mary Wormworth for Mary's Hands Jewelry

 

Now, while I know that this trend is not for everyone...DON'T RULE IT OUT JUST YET!! The key to finding the right jumpsuit/romper for your body type is all about definition, length, fit, and fabric. Take into consideration how the item is draped and how/where the closure will fall. Also, be conscious of your own proportions. Ladies, be careful of drop waist styles, as these can oftentimes come off boxy and unflattering on curvy body types. With that said, here are a few of my favorite jumpsuit/romper finds...

(Button Front Sleeveless Romper, $29.99 available at LaneBryant.com; Sleeveless Belted Jumpsuit, $89.50 available at Lane Bryant.com)

(Women's Plus Tie-Waist Jumpsuits, $42.50 available at Old Navy.com; Black Paisley Playsuit, £16.00 (Approx. $24.75) available at Dorothy Perkins.com)

(Women's Plus Ruffled Romper Cover-Ups, $19.50 available at Old Navy.com; New Black Silver Button Short Jumper, $27.99 available at Jens Fashion Plus)

As far as styling is concerned, jumpsuits/rompers look fantastic with flat gladiator sandals during the daytime and stunning with heels in the evening. If you opt for a solid style, play up the look with great acessories and basic outerwear like blazers, denim, and even motorcycle style jackets. And if you choose to go with a style that incorporates a bold print or stripe, keep it more on the simple side so that all of the focus is on your flawless fashion sense. Rule of thumb across the board: Too many elements can be DISTRACTING, so always be sure to streamline.

Until Next time F5's and Skorch Dolls...
Stay D'lish

P.S. I couldn't resist...this song reminds me of my childhood. Romping around outside all day, family bbq's, and firecracker popsicles. If only life could be that simple again =)