Taking the Stand: The Romper a.k.a. The Jumper

Let’s start by reviewing the case:

It’s a little ironic that the garment taking the stand today is the uniform worn by most prisoners. Think bright orange. The purpose of the vividly colored  garments– to make escaping criminals easily identifiable.

We haven’t spotted any bright orange yet, but the jumper has been seen all over the runways and is definitely on the forecast as a spring trend. (Refer to exhibit A) FabSugar, a fashion news site, (British Edition) even went as far as calling 2009, “The Year of the Jumpsuit.” Wowzers!

But there is a lot of distance between us and the UK, so it’s still unclear whether this trend will be safe on American soil or extradited back home?

Please review some of the romper sightings over the past year before making your decision.

Evidence:

Exhibit A

Exhibit B

Exhibit C

And now, let’s turn it over to The Pretty Committee for review…

Posh Hippie: I love these. I have to admit I have never gotten over the romper or its close, skirted sister, the jumper. I have a somewhat childish sense of style so I enjoy it when showing off my legs and wearing something playful is in style. I’ve had some trouble with styles not leaping over the pond. Those skinny belts? I got some last time I was in London and people made fun of me to the point I got rid of them and now they are everywhere. Once again, this is a very body-type driven style and I think the longer panted ones are sort of nasty. If you don’t feel brave enough to wear one out in public, there are a number of romper pjs you can buy. I say this one has successfully escaped from prison. BTW, vans sells the prison issue sneaker that came out of the Cali prison system and I think they are adorable: velcro and all. Fashion is often about appropriating from the less fortunate or socially marginalized. Just look at Marc Jabobs’ new line and all its punkiness.

Trendspotter: I like the romper!  I even like the way the word sounds.  Repeat 3X.  It brings me back to my childhood when I loved how easy it made getting dressed. On the flip side, they’re not so great for those who take a lot of bathroom breaks.  Personally, I prefer the short romper. I think it’s great for casual spring and summer outings, but I’d save the full length jumpsuit for nights on the Vegas Strip, worn in all black with dazzling accessories. Other than that, I’m not sure where else the full length jumper is appropriate.

Jess: The orange jumpsuit has come a long way. I have not yet stepped out in this trend, but I have dipped my toes in the water one might say. I have my doubts about this one… this look is not very flattering. Take Pamela Anderson for example, we all know she has a banging body, but her one-piece bodysuit, as I like to call it, doesn’t do her justice.  I’m gonna have to say NONE of the full leg rompers tickle my fancy.  I would stick with the short rompers. J. Lo looks fabulous, as always, and Nicole Richie has pulled off the look, so my two cents on this trend: if your going to jump into one, show a little leg!

Lady Lex: I’m all for the romper, but like everything, there’s a time and a place for them. The red carpet is not one of them. The romper is supposed to be fun and casual. Do NOT wear them in all jean or satin. Nicole Ritchie rocks it best.

Daph: While I like to think of myself as fashion forward, the romper is a big NO in my mind. Why you ask? Well, in a nutshell, it reverts you back to your elementary school days when jean overalls were cool, ugh. If you are going to be fashion forward and try this look, Puh-lease, no pants, SHORTS ONLY! NO silk, denim, spandex, lycra, velour, or terrycloth. White or black LINEN is a safe bet. Some sort of a SLEEVE is necessary, whether short or long, a BELL SLEEVE is preferred, for a fun girly look! A thin belt worn high on the waist helps to break things up a bit. Colorful accessories (topaz and coral) and a long necklace! Okay, it could be a cute style to wear to the beach, but only in the specifics mentioned.

The Verdict: Short Romper-Pretty Committee Approved! Full Body Jumper- catch the next flight home!

XOXO,

The gals of INPT