One and done: Nine ways to wear a versatile jumpsuit for any occasion

Pair with a trench coat and loafers or kitten heel slingbacks and sunglasses for instant laidback luxe

Thu, 08 May, 2025 - 15:29

Annmarie O’Connor

I’m a jumpsuit apologist. Adult onesie slights don’t faze me. How could they? Two minutes to look put together; a whole day to feel smug. Yes, please.

Ironically, the garment’s practical provenance (think munitions factories, mechanics, skydivers) bestows its signature ease. Combine this with infinite styling options and we’ve got ourselves a bona fide wardrobe staple. Here’s how.

Jumpsuits are versatile, especially the classic iterations: short or long-sleeve, zip-through or button-down, the proportions lend themselves to layering, cinching, cuffing and anything that pulls the old switcheroo.

Given our temperate but temperamental weather, this bodes well. Helen McAlinden’s ‘Frankie’ is one of my everyday favourites. Pair with a trench coat and loafers or kitten heel slingbacks and sunglasses for instant laidback luxe. For something more casual, reimagine a denim boilersuit or a colourful corduroy number (try COS, Oliver Bonas or & Other Stories) with tank tops, long-sleeve underpinnings or roll necks paired with vintage sneakers or ballet flats.

Got a handful of RSVPs and nothing to wear? Look to cape or asymmetric sleeves with in-built drama (COS and Mango deliver) or serve a print moment instead with a showstopper like Boden’s floral confection. Or get your frills with V by Very’s ruffled bandeau beauty in chic monochrome. Warning: prepare for all eyes on you.

Prefer a clean slate? Zara’s low-key offering with its sweetheart neckline and jet pockets offers real estate for belts and jewellery, allowing you to set the mood.

You see? One and done.

‘Frankie’ jumpsuit