Jumpsuits--80s cool or 80s drool...?

OK, I know, that was an awful title, but it captures exactly what I'm trying to figure out. When first I saw that the jumpsuit really is back (and trust me, it is in a huge big way), I was horrified. I could not believe my own eyes and immediately started imagining scenarios of saggy boobs and protruding bellies making a major statement in various styles of jumpsuits. But then I remembered that I used to LOVE jumpsuits. And not just in the 80s, but also in the 90s, and probably as recent as 2003...

A few years ago, I had some aversion to smocked top dresses, still do. The jumpsuit has the very real and risky potential to be the pant version of those awful dresses, because, like those dresses, it can be tremendously comfortable, and signify cutting edge fashion. Just look at the By Malene Birger jumpsuit in the above link (it's harem pants and a smocked top in one), or take designs by Roksanda and Diane von Furstenberg. I shudder at the thought. But there are also examples of very well-cut and designed jumpsuits that have practically nothing in common with the smocked top dress. Alexander McQueen's All-in-One Tuxedo is absolutely beautiful, and for more relaxed looks Anna Sui and Stella McCartney (although her takes on the jumpsuit are not always flawless) are among the designers who have some great designs that neither make you look fat, or like you're trying to hide fat, or like you've tried to cover up your prison escape with some crafty fabric dye.

I guess that what I'm trying to say is that you should definitely go with the jumpsuit, but only if you find one that is actually more than a glorified PJ.