How to Wear a Romper Like a Lady

I think the romper is still a very confusing piece for most women to wear. There is a fine line between class and poor execution when dawning this trend. I’d like to offer a few rules to ladies wanting to try this out as the Spring beckons for us to show off some leg. We’ll use this week’s Carreras feature to walk you through it so you can romp around in confidence.

Leith Tie-back Romper/Carreras Estate Earrings/Jessica Simpson Lace Pumps/ Shiraleah Clutch

1. It’s all about the legs. Rompers are great because you get the effect of a dress, but you can take it up a little shorter– there is no danger of a wardrobe malfunction. Accentuate your legs with heels. I almost want to say ONLY wear heels with rompers. Even a short bootie will do. I’ve paired one here with a slinky lace pump from Nordstrom.
2. Keep it loose. No camel toe. No wedgies. Treat your romper like a dress. It should have plenty of flare around the thighs for it to be flattering. The easiest rompers to style are those with lots of flow. This Leith romper is a great example of a universally flattering fit. Check out the back of the romper:

   

3. Don’t over accessorize. Rompers are already full of personality. The shape–and often patterns–already have a lot to say. You’ve made a bold statement by wearing one and you should’t need to layer too much on top of it. Pick one or two statement pieces like these 18k White Gold Emerald and Diamond Estate Earrings from Carreras. I kept the accessories simple and ladylike here. No necklaces, no crazy coats or handbags.
   
4.  Cinch the waist. On the other side of the spectrum of wearing a romper that’s too tight is to wear one that is too loose. You don’t want your shape getting lost. With flowing fabrics, you should accentuate your waist. Choose a romper that already comes in at the waist (preferably with elastic) or buy one that looks good with a belt. Grab a skinny belt before you head into a dressing room to try on your romper. You’ll get a better idea if it flatters you or not.
5. Rompers are not just for festival goers. I think rompers hit the stores a year or two ago and they got cast right away as a boho piece. Not that I don’t love my boho, but rompers can be much more versatile. This season, you’ll see rompers classed up quite a bit. I’ve taken this simple green romper and turned the classy volume all the way up. You could easily wear this look to a theater show, to happy hour at The Jefferson, or to your college bestie’s wedding.

Do you have any other rules for rompers? Any style questions for me? Please share in the comments below!