Jumpsuits! Do you love them or hate them? I’ve heard those in the “love” camp express appreciation for the style and comfort. Many in the “hate” camp feel jumpsuits are not very practical.
Where do I fit in? I’m going with the “love” crowd. I think jumpsuits are adorable, and appropriate for almost any occasion. While the majority of jumpsuits are worn as casual wear, we’re seeing a lot more special occasion suits, like the white one I made in the photo below, for an All-White Jazz Event in 2016. Some brides are even opting for the jumpsuit instead of a wedding gown. I don’t follow trends or always know what’s new on the runway each season. However, I’ve heard that jumpsuits are the THING right now.
I also love the fact that most of them are so versatile, making it easy to dress them up or down. This black one I made below some years ago would look totally fine with a pair of sneakers or flip flops. AND it looks amazing styled with a pair of high heels and floppy hat.
Regardless of what your position is on the jumpsuit topic, the BIG question always arises during this particular garment conversation. How do you go to the bathroom?
ANSWER: First, I don’t wait until the last minute to go. Hahaha! Yes, it can feel a little vulnerable removing the upper half of the garment when visiting a public restroom. I just do it. I don’t have any magical advice or tricks. If you’re very uncomfortable with disrobing your upper body in a public restroom, just limit jumpsuit wearing to the privacy of your own home.
DIY JUMPSUIT – McCall’s 7910
I absolutely love McCall’s 7910. In fact, I like it so much that I made two in one week. I’ll share the other suit in next week’s blog post, after I get some photos. What I appreciate most about this pattern is the simple design and the lined bodice.
I’m rating this an EASY sew. As an intermediate sewist, I was able to sew the jumpsuit with no issues. For a new beginner, there may be a little confusion with the positioning of the straps. However, if you transfer the markings from your pattern onto the fabric bodice front and straps precisely, study the illustration for that step, and place your straps exactly as you see them pictured, it should be fine.
The possibilities for this pattern are absolutely endles. If you want to make a jumpsuit with designer or special occasion fabrics, this is a good choice. You MUST use a stretch fabric though, unless you install a zipper at center back, below the keyhole opening.
I used a lightweight knit with ruffles and chevron patterns. What a combination! It’s a beautiful fabric but there was a defect in the print which made it impossible for me to match the patterns at all the seams. By the time I realized what the problem was, I had already spent two hours cutting and re-cutting. Therefore, I decided to just go with it. Lesson learned: ALWAYS check your fabrics before purchasing clearance items. My fabric was purchased from the Michael Levine Loft a while ago.
Before I leave, I have to thank you for the amazing response to my last two sew-along videos. The feedback has really encouraged me. I’m very grateful to have your support. As I continue to learn this whole videography thing, I will continue to improve and bring you more content. My main goal, as I prepared to come back to YouTube, was to provide quality videos. I’m very proud of myself for what I’ve accomplished thus far. I appreciate your support, with all my heart.
Now, I’d like to hear from you. How do you feel about jumpsuits? Are you team jumpsuit: YAY or NAY? Leave a comment below.
Thanks for stopping by!
Hi Anita – I have a question re the M7910 pattern. The instrustions say to use a Tricot for the lining… Can I use the main material instead? What did you use? Thanks. Jo
Hi Jo. Excuse me for the delayed response. I used a tricot. Depending on the thickness of your main fabric, it may also work well as a lining. My main fabric was very thin, so I used it as a lining for the bodice. I could have done the same with the pants but opted for the tricot instead.
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I really love your style. Jumpsuits are my favorite things to wear, but I too hate the ones that give me problems when I need to go to the restroom. I have been following you for a while and love your elegance. It is truly a blessing to me to receive wisdom, guidance, and inspiration to keep moving forward. Now I am going to try this and post it when done.
Thank you so much Rachel! You’ve given my heart a smile. I really appreciate your support. Have fun sewing your jumpsuit.
The black jumpsuit is lovely! You could go around the world in that one garment. The white and zig-zag suits have that halter line which does not flatter many of us. Years ago when a USAF pilot friend got promoted, I got to sew on the new Captain bars. It was late and my lap was full of silver fabric, pockets and zippers. Yipes! The front zipper went down from the top and up from the bottom! . . . Tomorrow or the next day I will finally be under 200 pounds! Very important to drink lots of water! . . . Well, maybe for around home. Maybe in a smaller size. . . XO XO
Thank you Mimi
Jumpsuits are fabulous as you are wearing them. You are gorgeous and they are the bomb, lol. The white jumpsuit is a must have. Simply Stunning!
Thank you Doris!
I’m in the love camp with jumpsuits and have several patterns but I’m not quite sure about the construction having the crotch area and waist fit properly.
It would be wonderful if you did a sew-along addressing these areas. I love your style and how you carry yourself. I look forward to all your blogs and sew-alongs, thanks for sharing your knowledge and inspiration.
Blessings,
JeriLynn
Hi Jerilynn! Thank you so much for joining the conversation. Yes, the crotch area are always a touchy subject. I highly recommend the mybluprint.com site. The offer video classes on fitting pants. They’re a membership site but you can purchase individual classes also. There are several fitting classes in their library. I’m thinking about doing a sew-along on this jumpsuit, or another one in the future.
Yesssss please do a sewalong. Thank you in advance.
First off, I just want to say that you always look amazing in your makes. You are in tune with what fits your body. All the jumpsuits here are beautiful but my personal opinion on them is that as a plus sized lady, I can’t do them. Jumpsuits show every curve and bump and my body has a lot of them. This is me, speaking from my own experience so I try to shy away from them all the time. I actually hate pants for a lot of reasons. This is just my opinion for myself.
Hi Cherease! I hear you, sister. You’re not alone in how you feel about jumpsuits. We all know our bodies, what works and what doesn’t. Thank you for joining the conversation.
I love jumpsuit, as a matter of fact I am getting ready to make myself one soon I bought the perfecr fabric for it and everything.
Yaaay, Leticia! Have fun making your jumpsuit.
I love jumpsuits! It doesn’t matter what body shape or height there’s a jumpsuit for you. I must also say that age is no number when it comes to jumpsuits. I love your videos and your technique.
Hi Lili! Thank you for joining the conversation. WooHoo! Another Team Jumpsuit member.
You look amazing in all your jumpsuits, Anita. You also have an amazing figure. Being older does not stop me wanting to make jumpsuits, I love them, so much easier to just hang one item in your wardrobe, however I have a belly that does not take kindly to the styles I’ve seen so far. I used to wear them often when they were in fashion in the 70’s and still think they are fabulous!
Thank you Renee! Yeah, you must find one that fits your own body in order to be comfortable in them.
No on the jumpsuit. I like the look. I like how you don’t have to find a top to match the bottom. It’s all there, just accessorize. But, I won’t wear one because of the bathroom issue. I choose not to deal with it. Not just because I feel vulnerable, but it’s just a hassle.
I hear you Lorraine. It’s a valid point.
I really like the style of jumpsuit…but don’t wear because of the bathroom issue. Also, they are such a chore to get out off. Your jumpsuit Anita looks great on you. Seeing you in it make me want to try it again. But they I recall the time I wore one, and think. I’ll take a pass!
I understand your concerns, Rene. I don’t have a problem getting out of my jumpsuits. I just unzip, unbutton, or pull down and take if off. Hahaha! But hey, we’re all different, right?
I love the comfort of a jumpsuit but don’t wear one because my bottom half is significantly larger than my top and I don’t think it would be very flattering on me. I think it looks great on other people, though (especially YOU!!)
Hey Lisa! Thank you for joining the conversation, and I understand your concern with jumpsuits on your body.
I love jumpsuits in fact I purchased M7910 and a few other jumpsuit patterns . Looking at how beautifully yours turned out I am inspired to make a few real soon.
Thank you
Yaaayyy! Oh Yolanda, you’re going to love this jumpsuit. It is so comfortable. Wait until you see the pink one I made. I’m in LOVE!!!
Yes Honey! I love them! You have to keep doing tutorials! You are the only one who sew garments that I can actually fit! For the first time since I started sewing, (2014) Those fro ants were the first thing that I have completed and put on and they fit! Thank you! ?
Hey Stephanie! Yeeesss! So glad you enjoy my sew-alongs. I plan to keep them coming.
I love a cute jumpsuit and am with you on the bathroom consideration. I am cautious about top half as I have a larger chest and often worry about the uni-boob effect. You are rocking all of them but I am particularly fond of the black one.
Oh Anie, yeah, that uni-boob issue is serious. It doesn’t look good at all. I’m glad you’re conscious of that.
love a jumpsuit and have always wanted to make one……maybe sew along video for this 🙂 each one looks amazing
Thank you Susi! I’m thinking about a sew-along on this jumpsuit. Just not sure which bodice view I want to do yet. There are three great options.
I love the way the jumpsuits look and the way you look in them! I don’t wear them because of the bathroom issue. I love your blog and YouTube channel! I hope to learn to sew through them and maybe start my own channel!
Hey Anne! Thanks for joining the conversation. The majority of people who don’t wear them have the same issue. Thank you for reading the blog and watching my YouTube videos.
Yes I love them and I wear them. You did a great job, really cute.
Yaaay, another Team Jumpsuit member!
I happen to love jumpsuits. Over the years I have had a few, though the bathroom thing can be a bit annoying. Nevertheless I just dealt with it. A small price to pay for how nicely they look. I too like how you can dress them up or down. By the way you look absolutely stunning in each picture, but that comes as no surprise. You’re very inspiring. I hope to get back to sewing soon.
Thank you Aretha! Yes, you have to get back to sewing so you can have some fun with us.
Hey Anita, how you doing! I can tell by the picture your doing and looking great! I won”t say I love jumpsuits but I do like them! They are versatile.
Hey Gwendolyn! Doing well, sister and I pray that you are too. Yes, love the versatility.
Love all of your jumpsuits! Can’t wait to see the next one!
As for my preference. I have to consider my body type (don’t we all?), so I’d only make/wear one in a woven with a good drape or a stable knit.
Yep, Carrie! We HAVE to consider our body types and I’m so glad to hear that as a common consideration in this conversation today.
Love jumpsuits. But I’ve found the only just the right cut, hides the “”middle age pooch”. Can’t wear them all. They remind me of the sophisticated ’60s!!
Yes, Wanda! I agree that we need to find the right cut for our bodies. Yeeesss! they wore them well in the 60’s.
I am team YAY all day. I love a jumpsuit. I agree with you that they are so versatile and easy to wear. I don’t have a bathroom issue. ? This is gorgeous, you made that fabric behave, wear it proudly.
Love!!
Yaaay, Tanya! Yes, girl, that fabric tried to take me out. ?
Team jumpsuit!
Yes, Emma!?
Ms. Anita,
Again, you are amazing!
OMGosh! Thank you Veronica!
Absolutely No! to jumpsuits. I know they are comfy but the difficulty in going to the bathroom is more than enough reason not to wear them. I have no desire to have to undress just to go, men already have the advantage to just unzip most of the time.
Karen ???!!! Okay, no jumpsuits for you!
I loveeeeee jumpsuits!!!!!!!!
I love jumpsuits, I have ones for leisure and some cruises. Yes it can be a bit intimidating, when it’s time to go to the ladies, but as you say, just undress yourself and use the convenience and dress yourself again and walla. Your outfits are lovely. You look glamorous in all your outfits. You love hats,I notice
Beautiful lady.??
Hey Dinny! Oooohhh, YES, hats are my thing. I love them so much and wear them at every opportunity. Funny story: Once when my husband and I were having a house built, the builder started to look forward to my hats. I think I showed up once without a hat, and he asked, “where’s the hat?” Years later, he still remembers my hats. Hahaha!
Team Yay! And I’m 60. I seam to have to go to the bathroom a lot. Rofl but when I know I’m looking good. I don’t care.
Latanya, I’m laughing so hard! Hahahahaaa!!! Keep looking good, sister!
I love love love jumpsuits
I’m in awe of you…you are so concise in your video tutorials…jumpsuits are so comfortable…I haven’t started sewing with a pattern as yet…I’m learning the drafting portion of sewing thus far and trying wholeheartedly to grasp the concept of sewing to improve upon my sewing skills…!¡!
Thank you Theresa! I love that you’re learning pattern drafting first. That will help you tremendously when learning to adjust commercial patterns to fit your body. I still want to learn pattern drafting one day. Thank you so much for watching my videos.
I love jumpsuits whether I’m wearing it to a concert, bridal shower or just hanging out with the hubby! I’m a big breasted girl so halter is totally out of my comfort zone. The black one the other hand I absolutely can do…..you look amazing as always, Anita. Thank you for sharing!
Yes, Deborah! That’s the beauty of it. There are so many different styles that we can choose styles that work for our individual bodies. Thank you.
I’m definitely team jumpsuit. I love them. The 2 you have pictured in this blog post are fabulous, I’m looking forward to seeing your next one.
Thank you Dawn!
Love jumpsuits on others, but not for me; bathroom, age, figure, all that stuff… ☺️
Okay, Wen! You’re I’m cool with all but the “age” aspect. I just think anyone can wear a jumpsuit if you choose a style that you’re comfortable in.. I don’t care if you’re 99 years old. I’m serious.
If the jumpsuit is well fitted, I like how they look on other women. The bathroom dilemma means a “no” vote for me, personally. Besides having to disrobe my top half, one would end up with a lot of fabric to keep from flopping down on the floor and public restrooms are ……. uh. ick. But I do like the all-in-one color or print look, I just would choose to achieve that with separates. I especially like the black jumpsuit you made.
Hey Betsy! Whew! This garment on the floor in public restroom comment is popular here today. It’s the first time I’ve heard that. It’s a valid point, as I always make sure my garment doesn’t touch ANYTHING in that stall. LOL!
Separates with matching fabric can actually look like a jumpsuit.
Heeeyyy NOW! Don’t hurt ’em girl! Hahaha!!!
I love the look. You are stunning in everything you design.
Thank you Denise
Yay, I would love to make one being that I’m 5’9″. You are so right on how you can dress them up or down. I’m so looking forward to your next video. Thank you in all that you do for all of us. <3
You’re very welcome Barbara! Thank you for watching my videos.
I love your jumpsuit, you look great in everything you make. I made my first jumpsuit two weeks ago and fell in love with it, so much that I’m making another one right now. My blog is anyhomebody.com. I’ll be posting the second one next week.
Yaaayyy, Linda! I’m looking forward to making my next one too. Have fun sewing your new jumpsuit.
I have successfully made a few jumpsuits and they look great! I wore one to a friends party and nearly wet myself struggling to nearly strip to use the potty.? So while, I love the look, the fact that I may need to wear “depends” to prevent an accident, is waaaaay too much for me!
Hahahahahahaaaaa!!! OMGosh! That is so hilarious! Did you wait until the last minute to go to the bathroom? I’m dying laughing about the “depends”. Hahahahaa!
I love jumpsuits. They are great for running around town and doing errands. I have a border print that I bought 3 years back to make a jumpsuit, but have been nervous about sewing with border prints. You have inspired me to give it a try. Any suggestions on cutting border prints out.
Oh Linda, a border print will look amazing on a jumpsuit. Of course, placing the border at the hems is the simplest method. You would just line up the pattern hem with the border, keeping in mind the hem allowance. Trace your hem allowance at the hem on your pattern and place that line where you want the hem to end.
If you want to get creative and place the hem in other areas, do the same thing. draw a line on your pattern where you want the border to fall and place the pattern on the fabric using the line as your guide.
Have fun sewing your jumpsuit.
Hi, Anita. You look lovely in all of your jumpsuits. I especially love the black one and the all white one. I love jumpsuits. I cannot get enough of them. I am so happy that they are a thing right now.
Thank you so much Manecoarse!
Wow, you look awesome and did a GREAT job!!
Thank you so much Margaret!
The last time I wore a jumpsuit was back in 1977 when I was 12. ? I wouldn’t wear one now because of my body shape and size, but you certainly rock them, Anita! The picture of you in the white one reminds me of Angela Bassett in Waiting to Exhale. ?
Oh Lori! I understand body changes and not wanting to wear certain garments.
Oooohhh, the Angela Bassett comment! Honey CHILE!!! Thank you!
Anita, this jumpsuit is too cute. I’m adding this one to my list!
Erica!!!!! Hiii!!! The jumpsuit QUEEN herself! OooWeee!!! I can’t wait to see you rock this one. Thanks for stopping by.
LOVE all of your jumpsuit looks. I recently did the #sewtogetherforsummer jumpsuit challenge as a challenge to myself. It wasn’t a fail but wasn’t a success, as I need to find the style that works for my body type, which I’m working on. The reason I don’t care for jumpsuits is from a hygiene aspect-lol. For me it’s not about exposing my body but the simple fact the upper part of the jumpsuit may touch the toilet, or floor or something and that completely grosses me out -lol. That being said, I may keep my jumpsuit wearing to at home or at family or friends home. Or wear in a situation where its not an all day wear-lol.
Heeeey Nateida! I’m so glad you said it wasn’t a fail. Whenever we sew something that doesn’t work out, it’s a lesson. Even our sewing mistakes are lessons.
Now, the hygiene comment is one I’ve never heard. It’s a great point. My jumpsuits don’t touch anything in a public bathroom because that would gross me out too.
I love jumpsuits. I like the fact that I can buy one that can be ‘dressy’ and some I can just be casual. I actually have to keep myself from buying so many…since I don’t have sewing skills…yet ?. I’m tall so I really like when I can find one that fit my body and length. You’re look fabulous on you.
Hi TK! Oh brother, I’m sure you have a struggle finding the proper length in jumpsuits. Yeah, you should consider learning to sew, then you can make all the jumpsuits you want to accommodate your height.
I love your jumpsuits. I also love to make and wear jumpsuits and rompers.
Thank you Sharon
This is fabulous, your take on jumpsuits have always encouraged me to try it. Absolutely love your jumpsuits Anita.
Hi im loveeee jumpsuits i tryed making one but had a problem in the crotch area i think they are very classy you can dress them up or down so im team jumpsuit Thank you so much Mrs Anita because of you im back trying to sew again i like youe videos and how neat you are keep up the good work
Thank you so much Misty! Thank you for watching my videos and welcome back to sewing.
Thank you Karon!
They look fabulous on you and ladies who are trim and fit. But as for me and my thunder thighs we are in the maxi dress camp.
I got it, Trudy! Totally understand!
I love jumpsuits and have several in my queue right now to make. It’s the type of garment that needs to really be customized\altered to your body. You get the fit right and it sings!!! I mean, look at yours ?
OMGoodness, Molly, you are so right! The fit HAS to be right. Have fun making your jumpsuits.
For myself, it’s just too much fabric to manage keeping off the floor and the surfaces in public facilities, even if they are especially clean, which many places are not. And then, if you have to stand in line for the facilities, as in a concert or park or whatever, it’s just that much more complicated and difficult to manage. Not worth it to me. If someone ever managed to solve the restroom problem, I’d consider it. But then they’d probably be pants, wouldn’t they! (^_^)
Plus, I definitely don’t have the body for one!!! But they are very cute on people, like you Anita, that can wear them!
Cat, the first time I’m hearing about keeping the garment off the floor of public restrooms. I haven’t had that problem. My jumpsuit never touches the floor. But I understand your concern.
They are pretty but for me they are too much trouble when you go to the bathroom. Your jumpsuits are quite NICE.
Yeah, that’s a very common complaint about jumpsuits, Adela. Thank you.
Hello Anita,
You look amazing in every jumpsuit that you have worn. Yes, I love jumpsuits. I am 5’ 2” with a little tummy that wants to show but I will not let that stop me . I am a newbie to sewing and I am going to make a jumpsuit. I love them and I think having a good attitude helps the jumpsuit shine! Will you ever do a tutorial on how to sew a jumpsuit?
Hi Pamela! I love your attitude about not allowing your tummy to stop you. There are loose fitting designs that you may prefer that don’t accentuate that part of the body. Yes, I will be doing a jumpsuit sew-along.
I think they’re cute on slender bodies, but most of us aren’t slender. I made and wore them the last time they were popular back in the 70’s. They’re very easy to sew and don’t take much time to put together. That said, I imagine jumpsuits will be another fad that is here for a season or two and then fades to the back of the closet. Enjoy them while they’re popular!
I hear you, Denise. I was listening to a podcast the other day about jumpsuits, and one of the ladies said she thinks they’re here to stay and that they’ve carved out their own category now. I thought that was interesting. I remember seeing my mom and all her friends wearing polyester jumpsuits in the 70’s. I’m thinking fad too, so it will be interesting to see how long they stick around this time.
I like jumpsuits. I haven’t made one yet. That’s going to be my next project. Your jumpsuit came out nice inspite of the imperfection on the fabric you showed us. ???
Thank you, Kelley! Have fun making your jumpsuit. Careful. You may get bitten by the DIY jumpsuit bug. Hahaha!
Hi Anita
This is a great question. I’m 49 and for the most part my husband and my daughter think i’m too old for jumpsuits – I disagree. I think it depends upon how they look on. I will also say, that I do have a hard time finding any that fit correctly. I’m 5’5″ with a short waist and long legs (pants are usually a 33″-35″ inseam).
Hey Marie! I disagree with the “too old” opinion too. Ladies of all ages are ROCKING the jumpsuits. Since you don’t sew, and can’t find one to fit your frame, you may consider having one custom designed for your body. Just a thought.
Marie, I’ll be 49 in September. And I’m offended on your behalf. I have a lot of jumpsuits in my wardrobe from rompers to full length. Don’t allow your family to insult you like that. Make a jumpsuit.