There’s something to be said for the effortlessness of one-and-done. When it comes to the beach or pool, you can always count on cute one-piece swimsuits to be flattering, chic and easy to wear. Though one-pieces used to be accompanied by a certain stigma—they’re only for grandmas, or to cover up body issues—these days, that couldn’t be farther from the truth. (To wit: Last Independence Day, 26-year-old Taylor Swift and her squad rocked red, white and blue one-pieces that just about broke the Internet.)
“One-pieces are great because they give you as much or as little coverage as you want. What’s your comfort level?” asks Bare Necessities swimwear buyer Megan Puma (at left). “Every trend imaginable now comes in the one-piece silhouette. The cut came back with style to spare; it’s not frumpy. Now it’s possible to be stylish and covered. Maybe even more so than in a bikini, you’re making a strong visual statement in a one-piece suit. And they can do so much more for your figure, too. Because no matter what you’re wearing, you can’t look good if you feel uncomfortable.”
Megan especially loves their versatility: “I like how you can incorporate a one-piece into an outfit, from festival fashion to going out to dinner. In this case, you can have both fashion and function.” Here are a few of her favorite stylish one-piece swimsuits for the season….
NAUTICAL BY NATURE:
This navy polka-dotted number is the perfect example of a directional look in a one-piece swimsuit. In other words, “look cute while you’re covered,” says Megan. Its design draws from a classically retro pin-up silhouette and timeless nautical influences—the colors, the print. Underwire cups mean support for your chest; the halter neckline means adjustability is in your hands. Bonus: The ruched Miratex fabric make your tummy look taut, too.
ROMPING AROUND: Magicsuit Solids Bianca
“It’s the cooler version of a swimdress,” says Megan of this innovative, adorable beach-to-street one-piece. “You’re good to go all day—no need for a cover-up,” she says. The flattering drape of the black fabric skims over the tush and tummy while a drawstring waist accentuates where you’re naturally narrowest. You’ll be so comfortable and confident in your cuteness, you may forget you’re in a swimsuit at all.
STRAP HAPPY:
Though it looks like a classic little black swimsuit, this one has shaping superpowers. “Sexy and strappy is a huge trend this season,” says Megan, who recommends this Magicsuit to get the look without going overboard: “You don’t have to risk wearing a deep plunge to give the same effect; your chest stays secure.” Adjustable straps in back also see to that.
OUTTA THIS WORLD: Curvy Kate Galaxy
In keeping with the strappy cage-detail trend, this Curvy Kate swimsuit actually comes with lots of thin straps that, when removed, turn it into a bandeau with a charming sweetheart neckline. You get both bra-sized support and a slimming, hourglass-emphasizing print in this edgy suit that’s remarkably easy to wear anywhere your travels take you.
STRAIGHT LACE: Amoressa Tres Riche Cristobel Crochet
Here’s a one-piece that shows substantially more skin—kind of a hybrid of a bikini and a maillot. It’s right on trend with the alluring crochet detail and high neckline yet completely trend-proof in its components, and it camouflages more than a bikini could while still managing to be the very opposite of covered-up. See how multitalented (not to mention knock-down, drag-out chic) a one-piece can be?
FEELING BLUE: Freya In the Navy Halter
A sporty, contemporary take on the nautical theme looks like this: a high keyhole neckline, halter tie, shirred fabric at the sides, preppy white piping. And because this one is made by beloved bra brand Freya, it even has a full bra built right in—underwire cups, side boning, hook-and-eyes hidden in back—for confidence that’ll carry you for (nautical) miles.
(Shown above: Miraclesuit Rockin Moroccan Sanibel swimsuit)
2 replies on “Trendy and Stylish One-Piece Swimsuits: Definitely Not Your Grandma’s One-Piece”
I adore one piece swimsuits, but honestly just feel so uncomfortable in most that I’ve found. I really like the highlights you have on each one here, it really helps in what to look for!
We appreciate your feedback. Our Bra Fit Experts offer personalized over-the-phone bra and swim fittings and would be delighted to help you find a comfortable one piece swimsuit. Please call 877.728.9272 (select option 4) 8:30 AM-6 PM EST Monday – Saturday to speak with a Bra Fit Expert. You can also chat with one online. Have a wonderful week ahead.