Style Staple: The Jumpsuit

Tsubo Footwear- 'Sevan'

Ripley Rader, yes that is her real name, is one of the innovative and creative designers with a keen sense of style. She has taken on the brave task of redefining, while simultaneously paying homage to, the classic jumpsuit.  A style that was popular at the height of the 70's, the form flattering one piece garment was the expression of the era. Jumpsuits have now evolved into an almost staple outfit, they no longer carry outrageous groovy prints that only certain body types could pull off. 

Ripley takes a simple design to a new level by diversifying the way the garment hangs to flatter, the fabric choices to be heavier to look more extravagant and the length of the inseam fitting almost any body shape.  She showed me a few ways to drape the jumpsuit for a day look versus a night look.

By utilizing colors and embellishments that conservative styles would consider too bold or costume for their wardrobes, they are shockingly flattering and appropriate once you put them on!
I instantly became a fan of the hot pink, which Ripley attributes the perfected hue to a hint of raspberry undertones. 

The gold sequins was heavy to the touch, which is also the sign of a properly constructed garment, and reminded me of something I would have worn to Studio 54 back in 1972. Yet when I feel like I could get away with wearing it to a gala or my next red carpet event and be the bell of the ball! 

The designer and I gabbed about how versatile one piece can really be. Her's being appropriate for resort wear while lounging by the pool in Costa Rica or attending a backyard brunch in Palm Springs all the way to a night out at a gala at the Ritz.

Ripley's eye for style isn't spent on clothing alone. The designer is a one of a kind gal when it comes to her nac for interior design. Her studio, where we held the photo shoot, is laden with mod furniture mixed with vintage eclectic and even has a confetti corner! 

Regardless of your body type or age for that matter, jumpsuits can be accessorized to be appropriate for any event whether it's LuckyFABB West or dinner with the gals.  Another key factor to keep in mind is that accessories pop in contrast to the simple sleek design.  For the shoot, I used jewelry by Chloe & Isabel and Capwell & Co. 
You can purchase Ripley's designs via her online shop or, if you are local to Los Angeles, at Fred Segal. For more information about the designer, visit www.ripleyraderstyle.com.

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