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The Romper, Summer’s Answer to the Jumpsuit

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What do you wear when it's too hot for jeans, you're tired of all your sundresses, but you want something a little more fun than shorts? A romper, that's what.


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Also known as the playsuit or onesie, this all-in-one look is your gold standard for easy summer outfits. Combining the polish of a dress with the function of shorts, the piece eliminates the risk of any wind-related, Marilyn Monroe–type wardrobe incidents and allows you sit down any way you'd like (not just legs crossed demurely).

Originating in the 1930s, the silver-screen favorite has variously been cast as sportswear, beachwear, and everything in between in the decades since. These days the options for shorts-and-top-in-one are pretty much endless — so which style to choose?

We've broken down five of our favorite silhouettes, complete with styling inspiration courtesy of romper-loving celebs like Taylor Swift, Chrissy Teigen, Kiernan Shipka, and more. Whichever look you go with, enjoy the comfort of your new romper — just be careful when you're headed to the public restroom!

The Tailored Playsuit

The vintage-leaning, sleeveless playsuit can teeter on the edge of looking childish, but not when you use Keirnan Shipka as your guide: Seek out clean lines in crisp fabrics that keep their shape, plus a slightly accentuated waistline to keep things grown up.

Keirnan Shipka in a Romper Photo: Ernesto Di Stefano Photography / Getty Images
The Reformation jumpsuit Photo: Reformation
Zara jumpsuit Photo: Zara
Club Monaco jumper Photo: Club Monaco


The Reformation Sama jumpsuit, $178; Zara striped denim jumpsuit, $50; Club Monaco Lyndsey open-back jumper, $199

The Utility Romper

For weekends off, take a page from Vanessa Hudgens' book and go for the utility romper. In denim or khaki, this men's workwear-inspired look is the easiest of the bunch to rock — just add sneakers or sandals, and you're good to go.

Vanessa Hudgens Photo: Bauer-Griffin
AG romper Photo: AG Jeans
Nasty Gal romper Photo: Nasty Gal
Forever 21 romper Photo: Forever 21


AG Rhoda utility romper, $255; Factory Organize Freedom utility romper, $78; Forever 21 contemporary denim romper, $35

The Polished, Button-Up Onesie

The shorts version of the classic shirtdress is just the thing to keep you looking polished for brunch with friends or even a day at the office. Take a cue from Taylor and slip into a pair of heeled sandals or pumps to dress up your look for the perfect work-to-drinks outfit.

Taylor Swift Photo: Alessio Botticelli/GC Images
Jack Wills playsuit Photo: Jack Wills
Urban Outfitters romper Photo: Urban Outfitters
A.L.C. romper Photo: A.L.C.


Jack Wills Delamere open back playsuit, $99; BDG striped shirt romper, $64; A.L.C. Mackay striped romper, $347

The Nipped-in Waist Romper

If you fear a shapeless silhouette, go for a romper with a belt or tie at the waist. In a woven cotton or jersey, this style is a great dressed-down option; for something a little more festive, look for a silk version and add heels.

Chrissy Teigen in a Romper Photo: John Sciulli / Getty Images
J. Crew romper Photo: J. Crew
Alice & UO Romper Photo: Urban Outfitters
Misguided romper Photo: Misguided


J.Crew tie-waist romper, $118; Alice & UO Demy long-sleeve satin romper, $79; Missguided tux romper with wrap belt, $60

The Long-Sleeved, "Going out" Romper

Kendall Jenner is the master of this look, which balances a lot of leg with long sleeves and a high-cut neckline. Opt for fun details like ruffles, silky fabrics, or eyelet trim, and pair with simple heels or sandals (Jenner's technicolor stole is definitely optional).

Kendall Jenner Photo: Venturelli
Jonathan Simkhai romper Photo: Forward by Elyse Walker
Zimmerman Romper Photo: Shopbop
Wilfred Romper Photo: Aritzia


Jonathan Simkhai crossbar silk romper, $387; Zimmermann Master Flute romper, $595; Wilfred Gringnard romper, $145


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