The allure of jumpsuits is obvious: they are streamlined and effortless. And — unlike some of the funkier new trends — always chic.
On Gwyneth Paltrow or Sofia Coppola (far left and far right pics), the black jumpsuit is timeless and ageless; it's a great alternative to a little black dress for more formal functions.
One of the best things about a jumpsuit is that elongates the body; in a forgiving cut (one with a blouson top and fuller leg) it gives your body a strong vertical line so you look taller and slimmer.
Of course, like all new looks, there are some not-so-great versions of the jumpsuit out there also, like the sort-of-looks-like-an-inmate jumpsuit that Heidi Klum is wearing in the center pic.
And then there is the man jumpsuit that Brad Pitt was photographed in (which looks suspiciously like a hip version of the Forever Lazy, the onesie for grown-ups. It's interesting to see these otherwise stylish celebrities pushing these utilitarian jumpsuits to the forefront of new trends. Can uniform dressing be far behind?
For now, try a dressy black jumpsuit with a sleeker silhouette. After 40, fit is one of the most crucial elements to all of your looks.
With a jumpsuit you should look for a silhouette that highlights your best features, while skimming over your not-so-hot features.
Style elements like a halter neck or plunging neckline can draw the eye up to the face. And a raised waist gives the illusion of longer legs.
