This weekend I went to see “Water for Elephants” and, much like everyone else, I was enamored with Reese’s 1930s wardrobe. From her equestrian boots and riding pants to her satin gowns and hair scarves, she had me wishing it was 1932 (oh… and also that I was the star performer in a circus, and had Robert Pattinson pining after me, and spent my days riding horses and a giant elephant).
The vintage look that really caught my eye was the scoopneck aquamarine jumper that Reese wore in the middle of the movie. With jumpsuits and rompers so popular today, she had me rethinking my prior aversion to them. I’ve always loved the idea of a jumpsuit, but have had a hard time finding one to fit correctly (long legs and a long torso are not your friend when shopping for one-pieces…), and I still can’t manage to get the image of J.Lo in an all-jean jumper circa 2002 out of my head (not a look I wish to emulate).
But Reese’s (a.k.a. Marlena’s) silk jumpsuit in “Water for Elephants” offered a refreshing twist: a vintage look. So as soon as I got home (ok, maybe not right when I walked in the door), I started scouring the internet for something that would have the same vintage appeal and still be semi-affordable. Here’s what I came up with:
The Kimchi Blue crepe jumper offers a vintage feel and I love the lightweight look, high waist, and the button-down detail. It seems perfect for a hot summer day. If you’re looking for something a little safer and slightly more modern, try the casual Bar III wide leg jumper. The scoopneck, wide legs, and flowing fabric make this silhouette very similar to Reese’s original jumpsuit in the film.
To finish the look off, and bring it slightly closer to the one from the movie, I would wrap a sash belt around the waist like this one from American Apparel, which can be tied any number of ways and comes in several colors. Pair it with an arm full of silver bracelets and some strappy sandals or ballet flats, and you’ll be channeling the ’30s in no time.
Kimchi Blue crepe jumper $69 or
Bar III wide leg jumper $59
American Apparel Sash $16
Forever 21 Dimpled Bangle Set $7.80
Forever 21 Disco Bangles $2.99
Total for outfit: $85-95
Now if you’ll excuse me, I have some internet shopping to do… I’m also feeling a strong urge to bleach my hair and sleep in curlers, but maybe I’ll save that for another time.