The formal jumpsuit is a distinctly modern type of formal wear. This piece is a great alternative if you don’t favor dresses or even if you just need to change up your formal wardrobe. Formal jumpsuits are also an excellent choice if you live in a colder climate and can’t stomach the thought of baring your legs during the winter.
With a design that’s unique yet elegant, the Adrianna Papell One-Shoulder Jumpsuit is suitable for virtually any formal occasion. The draped panel starts at one shoulder, creating a fluttering effect, and flows across the bodice to the hem of the opposite pant leg.
What to know before you buy a formal jumpsuit
Qualities of a formal jumpsuit
Certain qualities set a formal jumpsuit apart from its more casual counterparts. If a jumpsuit lacks most or all of these qualities, it might not be suitable for a fancy occasion.
The fit should be tailored and structured; otherwise, the jumpsuit could end up looking sloppy. The aesthetic for a formal jumpsuit is one that’s polished.
While the material used to construct the jumpsuit doesn’t have to cost a fortune, it should look expensive. Silk, satin and velvet are all suitable, but some designers use synthetic fabrics that have a high-end look. Steer clear of fabrics like denim, chambray and corduroy; they’re too casual for formal wear. Some types of material texturing, like ribbing, have a casual feel.
Occasions
Formal jumpsuits are just as appropriate as dresses for formal occasions. You can confidently wear a formal jumpsuit to the following events:
Wedding
Engagement party
Work event
Dinner at a five-star restaurant
Charity function
Holiday party
Fancy dinner on a cruise ship
Special occasion birthday party
Inseam
If you’ve never worn tailored pants before, you might be unfamiliar with the term “inseam.” Put simply, it’s the seam that runs along the inside of each pant leg. Measuring the length of your inseam is critical for figuring out the correct pant length for you.
Place flexible measuring tape at the point right below your crotch. Holding it taut, extend the tape to the lower part of your ankle. The number you get is your inseam measurement.
Getting your waist measurement is also essential for finding the perfect fit in a formal jumpsuit. To get this measurement, encircle the slimmest part of your waist with the measuring tape. Lay it closely against your bare skin or clothing made of thin material.
Proportions
The most beautiful formal jumpsuit in the world won’t look equally nice on everyone. Your proportions make a huge impact on what kind of styles will be flattering on your body. Choose a fit that highlights your assets and minimizes your imperfections. For example, if you have a tiny waist and heavy thighs, a jumpsuit with a fitted waist and wide legs is a good option. Regardless of your body type, high heels will create a long, lean look.
Formal jumpsuit features
Pant length
Thanks to their growing popularity, formal jumpsuits are constructed with several different pant lengths. Cropped legs are designed to hit somewhere in the area just below the knees to at least 2 inches above the ankle. Jumpsuits with ankle-length pants are designed to hit at the ankles, and full-length pants are designed to reach the tops of your feet or flow to the floor. Keep in mind that the exact point at which pant legs hit depends not only on the length of the pants but also your individual height.
Sleeves
While many formal jumpsuits are sleeveless, you can also find short sleeve, three-quarter-length sleeve and long-sleeve styles.
Neckline
If you’re attending a formal event, especially if it’s for something work-related, it’s best to err on the side of caution with a somewhat modest neckline. Excellent choices in formal jumpsuit necklines include boat, sweetheart, mock, round, shallow square, asymmetrical and scoop.
Formal jumpsuit cost
Formal jumpsuits cost more than casual versions, with most starting around $99 and costing upwards of $250.
Formal jumpsuit FAQ
How do you wear a formal jumpsuit?
A. Less is more when it comes to both the jewelry you wear and the bag you carry with a formal jumpsuit. If you favor bold jewelry, limit yourself to one bold piece. The rest of the pieces, if you wear any others, should be dainty and understated.
Avoid bulky, large purses when attending formal events. Instead, opt for a clutch, which is a small, compact style of handbag. A clutch will complement your jumpsuit without overwhelming it.
What’s the difference between a jumpsuit and a romper?
A. While there are exceptions to the rule, in general, rompers aren’t appropriate for formal events. Whereas a jumpsuit is designed with long pants, a romper is designed with pant legs that end above the knees. In other words, a romper is similar to a jumpsuit, but with shorts instead of pants.
Which formal jumpsuit should I get?
Best of the best formal jumpsuit
Adrianna Papell One-Shoulder Jumpsuit: available at Macy’s
Our take: A draped panel adorns the one-shoulder bodice and flows across one leg of this sophisticated jumpsuit.
What we like: The draping detail flutters on the single shoulder that crowns the asymmetrical neckline. This wide panel starts at the shoulder, runs across the bodice and continues until it reaches the hem of the opposite pant leg. Wide-cut pants further enhance the streamlined silhouette.
What we dislike: Heavy, thick material was the complaint most frequently made.
Best bang for your buck formal jumpsuit
MSK Rhinestone-Embellished Wide-Leg Jumpsuit: available at Macy’s
Our take: Rhinestones sparkle at the cuffs of this long-sleeve jumpsuit that also features a gathered tie detail at the waist.
What we like: If you prefer a formal aesthetic that’s understated with a hint of glamour, this chic jumpsuit fits the bill. Rhinestones accent the sleeve cuffs, breaking up the solid black color. The tie detail creates a gathered look on the bodice and falls to the knee.
What we dislike: A couple of buyers reported the jumpsuit secured with a zipper in the back, which the picture doesn’t depict.
Honorable mention formal jumpsuit
INC International Concepts Scuba Crepe Flyaway-Pant Jumpsuit: available at Macy’s
Our take: Pant legs cut in a flyaway style and a rich marine blue hue are two of the features that make this jumpsuit memorable.
What we like: Reminiscent of a skirt, the flyaway cut of the pants offers a glimpse of leg whenever you move. This design detail also creates a draped effect. The modest crew neck is suitable for any setting and the tie belt defines your waist.
What we dislike: The flyaway pant trend isn’t for everyone. It’s a non-traditional look that some people might find extreme.
Megan Oster is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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