Fashion: Neoprene - not just for wetsuits

I have written recently about a wedding I went to in New Orleans and in detail about what I packed and what I bought. One thing I didn't write about though was what I wore to the wedding itself. A multicoloured neoprene dress from Zara with Louboutin heels and an oversized flower (and I mean oversized!) instead of a hat.

This dress started my love affair with all things neoprene. Until now I have always associated it with wetsuits and children's swim shorts, but a thinner, totally wearable version has been making waves of it's own of late.

Designers are channelling it in just about every way possible - skirts, tops, dresses, even jeans. I have to say I was amazed at just how comfortable and flattering it is. The nature of the fabric means if its worn tight, as in my dress for the wedding, it sucks you in. If worn looser and gathered, on say a peplum top or a knee length full skirt, it falls perfectly hiding a multitude of sins. Whichever way you wear it, it just works. 

Below are our picks of the best the high street and designers have to offer:

Clockwise from top left: River Island shoes £55, ASOS Neoprene floral jumper £21, Whistles neoprene structure sweatshirt £85, J Brand neoprene legging-style jeans £310, Zara neoprene sweatshirt £25.99 and ASOS Neoprene Bonded Bra Insert Skater Dress £33