The lights have dimmed, the trumpets begin to play and the red velvet curtains get ready to part as spring’s travelling troup of circus performers tumble out of an oversized magician’s hat. Adorning all from pierrots to ballerinas, underpinning the dizzy heights of fashion’s stage is the staple of all performers – the humble leotard.

Often mocked and weighed down by their 80s/Jane Fonda associations (curse of so many trends), leotards have been creeping quietly back into the limelight, inevitably chasing their good friend leggings for their share of the glory.

Whilst I tried to ignore the return of all-in-ones at first, (childhood memories of the obstacles they create on bathroom trips have long create clouded my judgement) I can banish them from my wardrobe no longer. Dancing between slick body-con silhouettes and outlandish dress-up whimsy, the leotard might just be the ribbon which threads spring and summer together.

As with all perforance-inspired basics, first stop will of course be American Apparel. Be brave and pick their more outlandish colours and fabrics to team with flirty skirts a la Miu Miu S/S 08. Or try pastel shaded cotton with florals and floaty chiffons for 90s style romance – the streamline shape of all-in-ones gives girly skirts a bit of an edge. Just give yourself a bit of extra time for those bathroom breaks….