In the past couple of years, I have become a total convert of bodysuits. I bought one to use as part of a mime costume, and it started creeping its way into my everyday outfits. At first I was unsure about how to wear bodysuits, but now I have quite a few on heavy rotation. They are so versatile and can become an indispensable part of your wardrobe.

When buying a bodysuit, I would recommend looking for styles that have snap fasteners in the crotch. These allow you to go to the toilet without getting completely undressed, which is always a good thing. Try on the bodysuit before you buy, and have a bit of a wriggle around while you’re wearing it. I find that sometimes bodysuits and leotards tend to be cut very low in bust, which can cause them to slide off your shoulders if you have a narrow frame. Make sure that the suit stays firmly in place before you buy it.

Bodysuits are excellent for giving a streamlined silhouette. They look even tidier than simply tucking in your shirt, because they sit smoothly against your skin, and don’t rumple or pucker the way shirts can. Plus, you never have to worry about them coming untucked. They’re great for wearing with pencil skirts or for throwing on with a pair of jeans. Bodysuits also look great under full skirts and even shorts.

If you have a limited clothing budget, you’re probably on the lookout for ways to make your warm-weather gear wearable when the icy wind starts blowing. Bodysuits are ideal for layering underneath summer dresses and tee shirts for extra warmth. Once again, they sit snugly against your skin, so you won’t have any nasty lumps or bumps to spoil your outfit. They don’t ride up and you can get them in a variety of colours and sleeve lengths.

I tend to wear bodysuits a lot when I am emulating looks from the 1960’s. I am a huge fan of Edie Sedgwick, and leotards were a staple of her mod style. I just slip one on over a pair of opaque tights and then throw a mini skirt over the top. Then all you need is a pair of ballet flats and some massive earrings for effortless mod chic.

Bodysuits also work brilliantly if you’re trying to emulate the ballet style that has been popular this last year. Simply pop your bodysuit on under a floaty skirt and a pair of ballet flats. Slick your hair up into a ballerina bun and you’re all set.

Are you a fan of bodysuits? How do you wear yours?