Who doesn’t love a pretty summer dress? it is cool, feminine and a ready made outfit no co-ordination required. But if you sometimes feel like a bit of a change, there is a great summer fashion for 2011 that is equally practical and lots of fun. Playsuits are a sort of cross between shorts and a dress. It is all in one so is a ready made outfit making it the perfect beach wear or beach dress to take on holiday but it can also be dressed up with heels for a night out.

The shops are literally crammed with playsuits at the moment in a huge range of prints and patterns, there is definitely something to suit everyone. Don’t feel that Playsuits are just for beach wear though they also make a great casual outfit back home in the UK. Just add a denim jacket and you are go to go.

The Strapless Playsuit

This eyecatching pink floral playsuit by Dorothy Perkins is idea to wear as a beach dress as the strapless style will ensure you don’t get unsightly strap marks in your tan.

The Smart Playsuit

Depending on the dress code at you work, you may even be able to get away with a smart playsuit for the office. Try wearing with tights and heels and accessorising with a colourful scarf for a on trend but business like summer fashion. This Ted Baker playsuit at Littlewoods is a great summer alternative to the little black dress, flattering and versatile for a variety of occasions.

The Dress Like Playsuit

If you are concerned that a playsuit will not suit you or will be unflattering a playsuit that looks similar to a summer dress may be the best option for you like this Jada polka dot playsuit. The looser fitting shorts or cullottes style will make your legs look slimmer. If you are still not sure try wearing for a party with a pair of black tights which will also help to slim the legs

The Party Playsuit

It is entirely possible to make playsuits work even for very formal occasions. This Opulence layered bow by Rare Fashions playsuit is both extravagant and elegant, the perfect alternative to a summer dress for a wedding or day at the races. You can complete this outfit with a beautiful hat or fascinator, a pair of nude shoes and a brightly coloured clutch bag.

The Retro Playsuit

Retro styles are a key summer fashion. This H! retro polka dot playsuit by Henry Holland is a great way to work the retro style with a modern twist.

Which shoes to wear with your playsuit?

A casual playsuit will look great with a pair of sandals for beach wear or a pair of ballet pumps. For smarter or party outfits heels are a great way to elongate your legs and make your outfit look more glamorous and dressy. Wedge heels work particularly well with Playsuits as they are right on trend and work well with the practical style of the playsuit.