The Story of the Romper
The romper was founded in the early 1900s and began as playwear for young children because of it's freedom of movement. Rompers varied in materials and styles but held true as the first modern casual clothing for children (mostly babies). They were light in fabric and loose fitting in style, which was a welcome change of restrictive clothing children wore during the 19th Century. Styles and conventions varied from each country. For example, in France, they were only meant for for boys and were more on the dressy side.
The romper's popularity peaked in the 1950s when they were designed not only for children, but became popular with women for leisure and beachwear.
In the 1970s, rompers transitioned into fashion for women, and were a made of terrycloth in a tube top design. They were also common in the 1980s in various materials, but would later fade into fashion history.
In 2006, rompers came back to fashion life as a highly coveted garment for women. Several designers have presented collections including romper suits and they are offered by many retailers. They are available in many colors, fabrics, and patterns.
I love my C&C California romper for casual around the house, or out to run errands. I particularly like C&C because the bottoms are pre-cuffed so you don't have to worry about hemming.
My FAVORITE dressy romper is by Rebecca Taylor that is armed with a cold shoulder and enough edge to make you fall off of your chair. My only suggestion is not to wear rompers during the cold winter months because the fabrics are generally lighter. In extremely cold temps, you can feel the cold air through the material and it does not make for warm layers.
Rompers have continued their trend in todays fashion and have held strong as staples. Worn by fashionable women and playful children. With its one-piece design, the romper is a stylish alternative to a blouse and full skirt. An easy alternative for dressing up and making fashion look so easy!
It is so true that trends run full circles when it comes to style history. When we think of the 70s, we imagine wide legged rompers and visions of the iconic 70s fashion. Fast forward to today, we see rompers again in modern style and amazing nonetheless.
Let's not waste any more time starring at the hanger, go for it.