How Morphsuits are becoming fashion's most bizarre must-have item

There's no hiding from this catwalk phenomenon
Richard Quinn
Getty Images
Sabrina Carder4 June 2018

When it comes to fashion trends we're used to seeing everything from intriguing bum bag sandals to bonkers invisible jeans. So, it's not very often that a new avant garde style shocks us.

That said, our jaws recently fell to the floor as we uncovered a new designer soft spot: luxe Morphsuits.

Normally reserved for a festival field, spandex skin-tight all-in-one's are the latest sartorial statement designers like Balenciaga, Vetements and Richard Quinn want you to add to your wardrobe.

We can't say we are all that surprised. After all, over-the-elbow gloves and balaclavas have recently been hailed the accessory du jour, so it was only a matter of time before the two were merged together.

Plus, if you thought there was just one way to wear a Morphsuit - think again. The silhouette has been chopped and changed to create several luxe styles, which designers want you to wear ASAP:

1. The Full-Length Morphsuit

Gucci during the Women's Fall/Winter 2017/2018
AFP/Getty Images

2018 wouldn't be the first year head-to-toe bodysuits have hit the catwalk.

Back in 2017, Gucci caused quite a stir by sending a dazzling diamante style down the runway during Milan Fashion Week. The unusual item quickly becoming an Instagram phenomenon, with Rihanna and Kim Kardashian both giving the garment their seal of approval.

Balenciaga are now set to create the catsuit of the season, recently debuting an equally delicate transparent mesh design. But, unlike Gucci's, in a bizarre twist it's designed to be worn over your entire ensemble.

2. Wear It Under Work-Approved Outerwear

Balenciaga's autumn/winter 2018 collection championed the idea of layering subtle black bodysuits under tailored outerwear. A plausible workwear option, right?

Meanwhile, British designer Richard Quinn has become well-known for his eye-catching floral Morphsuit ensembles, which he first debuted for spring/summer 2018 at Liberty London.

Richard Quinn SS18 show
Getty Images for Liberty London

Quinn's SS18 show paired patterned all-in-one's under pretty much everything, from clashing print blazers to skirts and dresses.

He continued to experiment with silhouettes for autumn/winter 2018, which saw several half cape/ half Morphsuit combinations.

Richard Quinn's AW18 collection at London Fashion Week

1/17

Not only was it an elegant and show-stopping look, but it was also approved by someone rather influential, Her Majesty The Queen.

3. The Mini-Dress Hydrid

Yes, designers have even given the non-binary item a feminine makeover.

Balenciaga created a high-neck dress wrapped in vibrant material for autumn/winter 2018.

And Vetements are already backing the trend for winter 2019, recently posting an image of a floral dress on their Instagram.

Wondering how on earth you're meant to style such a number? With an oversized blazer and heels, apparently.

4. The Unisex Top

Lastly, tight tops with gloves is the most versatile option for both men and women.

Balenciaga served up several styles for men, using luxe materials such as velvet in eye-catching hot pink, midnight blue and lime green hues.

Meanwhile, Vetements made the style cool girl-approved, showing off numerous wild animal prints and patterns.

Throw one on with a pair of mom jeans and a jacket and you've got yourself the most low-key Morphsuit look possible for 2018.

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