Rompers aren’t just for four-year-olds anymore. I hesitated on the rompers for women trend for quite some time, but once I pulled the trigger and bought my first romper, I quickly bought a couple more. It’s just about the easiest outfit for summer, and especially great if I’m headed out of town and want to pack light. The fact that a romper is a one-piece eliminates the hassle and headache of choosing an outfit.
They’re not the easiest things to put together, though. I’ve seen some rompers out on the town that simply were not working. Whether it’s too short, or overly patterned, or simply unflattering, there’s a fine line between looking chic and looking like you’re wearing something ripped from your daughter’s closet.
Avoid the embarrassment—here are six on-trend rompers I love, plus what to look for (and what to avoid). Check them out in the slideshow.
More Summer Fashion:
- 11 Seriously Cute Maternity Dresses for Spring & Summer
- The Absolute Most Comfortable Shoes for Women: 11 Chic Pairs That Won’t Murder Your Feet
- How to Wear Shorts to Work (If You Dare)
How to Wear a Romper Without Looking Like a Little Kid
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A Little Length
Too-short styles are best reserved for the teen set. Achieve a more grown-up look simply by choosing a romper with a little extra length in the legs. This ruffle drawstring romper from Ann Taylor gives the trendy piece a pulled together look. If you work in a casual environment, this is perfect for the office on a steamy day.
Buy it: $74.99
Photo: Ann Taylor
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The Classics
Just as you can’t go wrong with a great pair of jeans, a classic romper will never let you down. This Merona Romper from Target epitomizes casual comfort with lasting style.
Buy it: $21
Photo: Target
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Go Faux
Take the trend in a new direction with a style inspired by a skort. This Marilyn Monroe Faux-Suede Romper is corporate-friendly and sleek. Throw a colored blazer up top and it's the perfect casual workday outfit. The skirt-styling gives it a little bit of femininity, but the sporty shorts ensure the same comfort you’d expect of a romper.
Buy it: $59
Photo: Macy's
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Two Tone
Bold rompers may look a bit garish, but that doesn’t mean you can’t work a brightly colored style. Try one that pairs a bold with a neutral, like this one by BCX. The effect is similar to a chic top tucked into a pair of comfy shorts, but unlike that ensemble, this one-piece oozes sophistication.
Buy it: $49
Photo: Macy's
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All Business
There’s nothing stuffy about a romper—the leg-baring style simply doesn’t allow for anything serious. But that doesn’t mean you can’t opt for a style that’s more polished than average, like the bebe Roll Sleeve Knit Romper. Long sleeves, a chic neutral color, and minimal details (I love the gold buttons here!) give it a posh appearance.
Buy it: $129
Photo: bebe
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Powerful Prints
You’re very likely to spot little girls in wildly patterned rompers, but your own version should skew decidedly more artsy. The abstract print on this Brown Island Romper is a great example. Crisp lines, ethereal hues, and a flattering fit make this a go-to summer outfit.
Buy it: $55
Photo: Shoptiques
