These days, swimsuits are good for so much more than swimming — they've gone from a technical item exclusively reserved for water activities to a full-fledged piece of fashion that doubles as a top or bodysuit. So, when shopping for a new bathing suit for summer, it's important to keep that outfit potential in mind.To really get your money's worth out of a one-piece, look for options that offer statement details (like an exposed zipper), standout fabrics or prints, or unique silhouettes. As for the styling, the possibilities are just about endless — and aren't just limited to warm-weather situations. In fact, with the right outfit, you can start wearing your swimsuits today. The four outfits ahead will show you how, and offer some pieces to shop if you're so inspired.
A zip-up, high-neck one-piece may offer up an athleisure vibe, but that doesn't mean it can't be dressed up. Take the style from athletic to professional and put-together with a streamlined wrap skirt and sleek overcoat. By accenting with statement accessories, like an orange bootie and faux fur clutch, you've got a dressed-up look for transitional weather (and no one will even be able to tell you're wearing a swimsuit to the office).
Lisa Marie Fernandez The Lisa Marie Maillot Neoprene-trimmed Stretch-denim Halterneck Swimsuit, $390, available at Net-a-Porter; Jigsaw Pinafore Skirt, $179, available at John Lewis; Zara Oversized Coat, $99.90, available at Zara; Isabel Marant Ankle Boots, $1,035 $414, available at Shoescribe; Shrimps Merkylie Clutch, $300, available at Shopbop.
With a shoulder-baring, strapless, color block swimsuit (that gives the illusion of a tube top), balance things by keeping the bottom half of your look more covered — a coordinating pair of wide-legged jeans and a comfortable black-and-white skater sneaker can do the trick. To pull this sporty-chic look together, add an on-trend choker and functional crossbody to the mix.
J. Crew Colorblock Bandeau One-piece Swimsuit, $135 $59.99, available at J. Crew; Ports 1961 Coated Cuff Wide Leg Cropped Jeans, $595, available at Lane Crawford; Ella Maximillion Neckie, $60, available at Ella Maximillion; VANS Sk8 Hi Slim Womens Shoes, $54.99, available at Tilly's; Deux Lux Azure Saddle Bag, $85, available at Shopbop.
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Getting away with a bra-like bikini without begging for a flower crown involves more than throwing cutoffs over your two-piece. High-waisted culottes bridge the midriff gap and make up for a teeny top’s lack of volume. And, up top, an open-front vest offers some coverage while showing off that bright pop of color underneath. Add a micro crossbody and non-beachy shoes to steer things firmly in a street-ready direction.
A bright turtleneck swimsuit isn't just made for staying protected in the sun — it's the ultimate secret weapon for fool-proof layering. Throw it on underneath a denim jumpsuit and let the colorful neckline peek out from the collar just slightly. Since you're already going loud with your top, there's no reason to not have fun with your accessories, too — try a woven sneaker, cylinder bag, and a lapel pin that will add a little sparkle to your denim.
Preen by Thornton Bregazzi Printed Swim Hartley Swimsuit in Red Breton $530 $197, available at Moda Operandi; A.P.C. Denim Overall, $345, available at The Corner; Pintrill Sparkle Pin, $12, available at Pintrill; All Hands Small Transmutation Crossbody, $370, available at All Hands; Loeffler Randall Roxie Lace-up Runner, $395, available at Loeffler Randall.
Play off of a metallic one-piece with an equally psychedelic bag and loafer. Then, keep the bottoms classic-cool with a pair of versatile black culottes, and finish the look with an edgy mixed-metal ear cuff.
PrismSamar Metal Swimsuit, $269, available at Prism; Caron Callahan High-rise Wide-leg Pants, $297, available at Madewell; Charlotte Chesnais Swing Earring, $485, available at Nordstrom; Charles & Keith High-shine Bucket Bag, $49, available at Charles & Keith; Loeffler Randal RIA, $425 $239.99, available at Need Supply.
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