9 Tips for Wearing a Romper
Rompers: the piece of clothing that combines the simplicity of a dress + the ease of shorts. You may remember me embracing the romper look last summer for both day and night. Well, rompers are back big time this summer. It makes sense. Rompers lend themselves perfectly for summer. They are much more practical than a dress for active outdoor outings.
While rompers are indeed simple and comfortable to wear, they do present some styling challenges. One does need to exercise care when wearing a romper. Here are our top nine tips for wearing a romper successfully this summer:
1. Select the size scrupulously : Fit is queen when it comes to the romper. Start with the length. While a romper by nature will be shorter than a dress, you still want to make sure it provides adequate coverage from behind – especially if you (like me) are a tall girl. Then, in the case of my romper with the deep V in front, I also needed to make sure there was enough coverage there. My solution in this case for ensuring ample coverage : I sized up one size from my normal size. This provided just a tad more material where I needed it in front and behind. Then, a simple alteration at the waist nipped that in to fit better.
2. Tight is not right : This plays into point number one about getting the sizing right, but it merits its own point. Of course, you want the garment to have some structure to properly highlight your natural shape. But skintight is not needed here. In fact, it makes the romper veer into costume territory. So, to avoid looking like an acrobatic performer, look for a silhouette that gives you some breathing room. You can highlight your waist with a belt or by opting for a wrap style romper as I did here.
3. Pick pretty prints : This is somewhat a case of personal preference. But I find that small, dainty, floral prints work really well on rompers. The print adds interest while still maintaining the elegant effect desired. Overly large and loud prints can become a bit overwhelming and distracting in the case of a romper – even bordering on being a bit juvenile.
4. Stick with solids : If you’re not a fan of florals, opt for a nice solid color. You can’t go wrong with a solid. That will create a nice long uninterrupted silhouette for you.
5. Stay with simple styling : The romper itself is enough of a statement. It’s best to let it shine while the rest of your accessories simply play a supporting role. As much as I love statement-making shoes, you’ll see that I opted for a classic nude pump here and very simple jewelry.
6. Look long and lean : This is one of the big advantages of rompers. By nature of the one piece garment, the romper automatically makes you look longer and leaner (as long as the fit is right). Keep that effect going by wearing some heels. If heels aren’t practical for your outing, opt for a chic wedge sandal to achieve the same long and lean look.
7. Add layers of interest with outerwear : If the weather calls for an extra layer, opt for a leather jacket or a classic blazer. Either timeless option works great over a romper. The solid nature of the jacket or blazer serves to tone down the print of the romper. A leather jacket adds an element of edge to an otherwise feminine look.
8. Be bold enough to take the romper risk : I get it. Rompers can be a little intimidating. But having read this article, you can now try the trend with confidence. Fashion is meant to be fun. So have fun, experiment, and try something new. Who knows? You might just find this to be ultra-flattering on you. It certainly has become one of my most confidence-inducing silhouettes.
9. Think ahead : Remember, rompers aren’t the easiest garment to get in and out of. At the risk of getting too personal, think ahead before you drink all that water during a hot day outside or before you drink all those cocktails during a night out on the town. 😉
On that note, for a good laugh, be sure to read this light-hearted article from Cosmopolitan titled “13 Romper Problems Every Woman Understands.”
Keep scrolling for our top 27 romper selections, plus all the details of my look.
