How To Wear A Jumpsuit

Since the 1970's jumpsuits have become a very fashionable piece of clothing, but some are not sure how to wear one. A jumpsuit is a style that pretty much anyone can get right, but there are some rules you need to follow when thinking about getting a jumpsuit.

A true Slave to Fashion has pretty much one philosophy when it comes to crazy, fleeting, "are they serious!?" trends: Bring. It. On. It's a true testament to a woman's style if she can make a pair of jodhpurs look smashing, breathe new life into an old pair of pointy-toe pumps, or yes, make the jumpsuit look like the epitome of chic...

When this trend first emerged on the runways of BCBG, Proenza Schouler, and Malandrino a few months back, you guys were pretty divided on whether it was a Do or a Don't. Then, I found a shining example of a jumpsuit done right, and a few of you, it seemed, became converts. Now it's time to tackle the one-piece wonder from the standpoint of a real woman...you!

There are a few simple tricks to pulling this look off--and weighing 99 pounds is not one of them, as you can see by Jennifer Hudson's fabulous version, above.

DO: Wear a jumpsuit instead of a cocktail dress. If you treat it like an LBD, it can be one of the most versatile items in your wardrobe. Jennifer's satin version looks polished and pretty, especially with the addition of the metallic topper--it's such a refreshing alternative for evening! If you're not comfortable baring everything and looking like you're in a onesie, adding a belt or a blazer is the perfect way to help break up the look.

DON'T: Do head-to-toe pattern. Or any pattern, for that matter. Would you wear a floral top and floral pants at the same time? Then why would you wear an all-floral jumpsuit? Keep the 80s where they belong--in the past--and make this look modern by choosing solid colors, sophisticated fabrics, and an evening-appropriate aesthetic. Anything else will have much juvenile a feel.

Still not convinced the jumpsuit can work for you? Choose one that has wide-leg pants and a forgiving fabric, like flowing jersey, to conceal anything you don't feel 100% comfortable showing. Act like it's a tube top or a halter top with a great pair of pants, and you'll get a feel for what looks right. Shop some of the jumpsuits I'm currently loving:

What do you guys think of the Dos and Don'ts of wearing jumpsuits? Are these rules enough to tempt you to try out the trend? Or is it still just a little too intimidating? Would you wear a jumpsuit?