If you’re like most women, I can assume that your go-to evening look is probably a dress. While cocktail dresses are always appropriate for evening events, sometimes it’s fun to change things up. That’s why a figure-flattering jumpsuit is a fabulous alternative to wear to a cocktail party or evening event.

Style Guide: How To Wear a Jumpsuit for Evening Events

A jumpsuit is a smart, sophisticated, and sexy look that evokes a message of self-confidence and power. When styled with eye-catching, glamorous accessories (like bold statement earrings and a sparkly clutch), it creates a stunning modern look that is suitable for evening events.

To help you learn how to wear a jumpsuit for evening events, today’s style guide shares tips on how to shop for a jumpsuit that flatters your shape, various silhouettes for different body types, and how to style a jumpsuit.

Find a Figure-Flattering Silhouette

When you go shopping for a jumpsuit, look for a silhouette that’s flattering for your body shape, as well as one that’s constructed out of a stretchy material that’s actually flattering.

If you have a straight or ruler-shaped figure, you’d look amazing in a jumpsuit with skinny or matchstick legs. If you have a pear-shaped, curvy or hourglass figure (like me), then it’s advisable to shop for a jumpsuit with flared legs, like a bootcut or a more exaggerated wide-leg (which is on-trend this season).

Another thing to think about is the material of the jumpsuit, as this will make a big difference in how the fabric drapes your body. While you might assume that a tight, stretchy material would accentuate any natural imperfections (like cellulite), when done properly, it can actually have the opposite effect.

As an example, this jumpsuit from La Petite Robe di Chiara Boni was designed out of a stretch jersey material, which is surprisingly flattering. Similar to the effect of wearing Spanx (or a body-shaper), this particular jumpsuit helps to camouflage imperfections, while accentuating a woman’s curves in a flattering way.

The Details Make a Big Difference

From sleeveless to strapless, jumpsuits come in a wide variety of options. If you have a fuller cup size, it’s best to stick with a jumpsuit that enables you to wear a bra. That’s why a jumpsuit with a feminine ruffled shoulder or thicker straps is a good choice since you can easily wear a bra underneath without the straps being visible. Plus, if you want to give your cleavage a boost (since it’s an evening look), you can opt for a pushup bra.

Turn Heads with Bold Jewelry

Since a jumpsuit is a modern look, you can off-set the simplicity of the outfit with a pair of bold statement earrings (like this pair from Oscar de la Renta). A striking starburst-inspired earring in a dazzling gold color looks especially dramatic in contrast with a black jumpsuit.

Other fun jewelry options would include chandelier earrings or a statement necklace.

Go for the Gold with Accessories

A sparkly acrylic clutch (like this bag from Edie Parker) adds a posh touch to your outfit, elevating your jumpsuit to the next level. Perfect for any evening event, a glamorous clutch is a contemporary way to carry your basic essentials while adding a standout style to your look.

As you can see, a jumpsuit is a stylish alternative to a cocktail dress for evening events. Plus, you can even wear a blazer or moto jacket over the jumpsuit (to make it office-appropriate during the daytime), and then add a few fun accessories to change up the look for an after-work event.

For more style tips and inspiration, check out the Fashion & Style section on Inspirations & Celebrations.

Shop The Style Guide:

Photography by James Molinaro (JM3)

Fashion Stylists: Tracy Odle (Augustina’s Designer Boutique) & Christina-Lauren Pollack (I&C)