Plus Size? How to Rock a Jumpsuit Over 40!
You probably wore a jumpsuit back in the ’70s, along with Charlie’s Angels (Lol!). Can you wear one now at 40+ without looking like a bad flashback?…. Absolutely!
A jumpsuit is an elegant option when you don’t feel like wearing a dress but want to look sexy and modern. Dressy jumpsuits are even popular now at weddings and other formal events!
Even though your body may be a little softer and rounder than it used to be, you can still rock a jumpsuit. Here are seven ways for plus size gals to look fabulous in a jumpsuit.
1. Consider a Dark Color
It’s just a fact. Dark colors are more slimming than light/bright colors and hide pounds better than prints. But don’t think solid black is your only choice for a jumpsuit.
A black jumpsuit is always chic, but can wash you out so you if you want to wear a dark jumpsuit you might try navy, burgundy, or dark purple.
These shades, although dark, are more lively than black and can give your aging complexion a beautiful lift.
One Shoulder Crepe Jumpsuit at Nordstrom | At Macy’s
2. Choose Soft, Stretchy Fabric
If you’ve got curves, steer clear of tailored jumpsuits made of heavy or stiff fabrics because they add bulk.
Instead, go for soft, stretchy jumpsuits that follow your curves. Look for jumpsuits that drape and flow, like this gorgeous one-shoulder jumpsuit above, which is elegant and figure flattering.
Flutter Sleeve, Tie-Waist Jumpsuit
3. Define Your Waist
If you wear a loose, flowy jumpsuit without somehow defining your waist, you’re going to look like you are wearing a big bag.
The best style of jumpsuit is one that nips in at the waist or just above it, or that has a belt. I like this cropped green jumpsuit because of the stylish self belt under the bust that creates a slimming hourglass shape.
Tropical Print Wide Leg Jumpsuit at Nordstrom | At Macy’s
4. Embrace Shapewear
Some jumpsuits can be clingy. This can be a problem if you carry your weight in your tummy.
High-waist shapewear panties can help smooth and flatten your middle. Jumpsuits with ruching can also trick the eye into making the stomach look less prominent.
5. Opt For a Wide Leg
If you have a pear-shaped bottom or heavy thighs, stay away from jumpsuits that have skinny pant legs. The better choice is a straight or wide-leg jumpsuit. A flowy wide- leg jumpsuit will balance your figure by giving it more of an hourglass shape.
Don’t forget to add a pair of strappy heels or sexy booties to elongate your frame and make you appear tall and slimmer.
6. Choose a Flattering Neckline
The right neckline can make all the difference when you are saying yay or nay to a jumpsuit.
Wide Boat necklines or Off-the-shoulder necklines are excellent ways to make your shoulders and hips look more in proportion to each other.
A draped cowl neckline is soft and flattering, especially for a mature women concerned about her crepey neck.
V-neck jumpsuits, and deep scoop necklines open your chest and elongate your neck. These necklines are great if you want to look less top-heavy.
Foil Trim Asymmetric Popover Jumpsuit at Nordstrom | At Macy’s | At Dillard’s |
7. Be Picky with Sleeves
If you are arm shy, you may want to wear a jumpsuit with long sleeves, but be careful here. Long, opaque sleeves can make your arms look heavy. You’re better off with sheer sleeves, lace sleeves, or 3/4 length sleeves.
Sheer capes that cover the upper arms are sophisticated and elegant.
8. Go Easy on Accessories
Don’t junk up your jumpsuit with gobs of jewelry as this can look very dated. This is extra true when you are wearing a print jumpsuit. Keep your look streamlined and classy by choosing a couple of unfussy, modern jewelry pieces with a touch of drama, and rock the look!
Floral Printed V-Neck Flutter Sleeve Overlay Jumpsuit
9. Try an Overlay Jumpsuit
Now here is a great idea. This is a chic straight-leg black jumpsuit with a sheer floral overlay. I love this layered look and the slimming illusion.
An open print Ruana like this over an all-black column of color draws the eye up and down and will make you look very statuesque.
Patchwork Print Wide Leg Jumpsuit
Shop the Look
Want more ideas for how to wear a jumpsuit for special occasions? Check out this post.
Was this page helpful?
I think a bodycon variation on this look, like a solid black tank unitard with a cardigan or moto jacket over it and cute boots…would add some date-night spice and flattering retro-Mod flair!
I just bought two jumpsuits! I love them! They are both tailored and sophisticated! Welcome back, jumpsuits!!!
Dear God, please let the jumpsuit (along with the hideous bubble skirt) die a dignified death!
Great tips here! The jumpsuit can be a fantastic outfit. So many beautiful styles, prints, and colors. Better than those frumpy dresses, which can be restricting too. So many jumpsuits to choose from; they are versatile to wear anywhere and great with heels, wedges, and flip-flops. Cool, modern, and trendy for any age but may not suit everybody, but the choice out there, I’m sure there is one for every woman. I have a pull-on beach jumpsuit and one for lunch with the ladies. Be daring, ditch the dress, and have fun!