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10 best playsuits

Find a versatile, on-trend all-in-one for summer

Sarah Young
Tuesday 04 October 2016 11:56 BST

The shorter sister of the jumpsuit, the playsuit is a super-stylish summer favourite. Aside from the toilet issue, they’re a great way to update your seasonal wardrobe without flashing too much flesh and promise to take you from the office to a night on the tiles with minimal fuss. With so many styles to choose from, the playsuit is a great alternative to the conventional summer dress, so whether you’re off to a wedding or looking for some festival outfit inspiration, we’ve got it covered.

1. Piper Reynosa Ruffle Playsuit with Pom Pom ties: £145, Asos

Tassels and pom poms are everywhere this season, and this embellished playsuit from the US brand is one of our favourite examples of the trend in practice. Made from lightweight linen and in a relaxed fit, it’s super comfy and the cold shoulder neckline, bright embroidery and pop pom-tie waist make it a head-turner. Pair with a leather cross-body bag and lace-up sandals for laid-back summer style.

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2. Zara Low-Cut Jumpsuit Dress: £29.99, Zara

At first glance, you would be forgiven for thinking this was a dress but underneath that billowing layer of sky blue fabric lays a nifty pair of shorts. This playsuit doesn’t need much decoration, with a simple V-neck and short sleeves, it’s the baby doll cut that does all the talking. Perfect for a day at the beach or paired with slinky heels for a midsummer shindig.

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3. Topshop Crinkle Trim Bardot Playsuit: £36, Topshop

The cold shoulder trend has really taken off this summer, so if you’re looking for a playsuit that guarantees instant style points then this one’s for you. The adjustable waistline, relaxed shorts and Bardot cut flatter while the pretty bell sleeve and ruffled edging add delicate detail. We also love that this comes in crinkled fabric for fuss-free dressing.

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4. Mango Printed Wrap Jumpsuit: £29.99, Mango

The flowing fabric, decorative trim and tassel-tie waist give this playsuit an air of boho chic. While in design it’s fairly simple with thin crossover straps and a V-neck wrap front, the manifold of patterns and earthy tones make for an interesting combination. Wear with gladiator sandals if you want to do understated cool.

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5. Free People Never Ever Playsuit: £240, Free People

From another US brand, this playsuit is ideal for hot summer nights in the Med. It’s made from a sheer net fabric with bright applique and pretty lilac scalloped trim. There’s a lining where there needs to be (at the front and on the shorts) and flattering three-quarter-length sleeves, but the open back and low neckline mean that there’s still plenty of skin on show.

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6. Miss Selfridge Blue Invert Pleat Playsuit: £45, Miss Selfridge

Playsuits aren’t reserved to fun and frolics in the sun - this structured option proves that they’re just as wearable for smarter occasions. The inverted pleat on the bodice – front and back – creates a super-tailored look without sacrificing comfort. The tie waist cinches everything in. Wear yours with a block heel and shoulder bag for super-sleek styling. Also comes in cream.

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7. Reiss Lou Lou Wrap-Front Playsuit: £160, Reiss

Utilitarian chic at its finest, this is the ultimate easy-to-wear playsuit. The khaki colour is timeless and the sleeveless wrap-front style is simple but elegant. You can add your own belt to glam it up or down. This one is ideal for day-to-night dressing.

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8. River Island Dark Blue Wrap Playsuit: £45, River Island

The functional theme continues with this next playsuit from River Island. Constructed from a loose-fitting woven fabric, it perfectly straddles the line between smart and casual. The V-neck wrap front, short sleeves and flowing shorts means it’s comfy to wear, while the cinched-in waist gives it a more structured feel. We also love the addition of the two front safari pockets.

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9. H&M Embroidered Playsuit: £29.99, H&M

Back to the beach and this strapless playsuit is one to pack for a hot holiday. Made from airy cotton with pretty (and very summer 2016) broderie anglaise, the bandeau design stays in place thanks to the lined bodice and silicone trim. We reckon this would look great with a pair of open-toe espadrilles.

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10. Cos stripe Jumpsuit: £59, Cos

Here’s something a bit different: a shirt-inspired option from the masters of pared-back chic. It’s made from soft cotton making it ideal for hot summer days but the three quarter-length sleeves and collar make it one for anyone who doesn’t want to flash too much flesh. The pinstripe design reminds us of old school-style pyjamas – a trend that’s really taking off this season. Simplicity is key here so pair yours with white tennis shoes for minimal fuss and maximum fashion points.

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Verdict

This summer we’re loving the artisanal trend so our favourite has to be the Piper Reynosa Ruffle Playsuit. The attention to detail is incredible from the intricate trim embellishment to the waterfall layer cut; here, both quality and impact make it well worth the investment. If you’re after something more versatile though, we’d suggest Zara’s dress-come-playsuit option for its stunning simplicity and sheer genius.

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