It’s official: The bikini is officially passe. Instead, women are reaching for one-pieces. These gradually rose in popularity from the 1920s, to dominate the 1980s’ “Cult of the Body” culture, before disappearing for almost 10 years in the 2000s. Fast-forward to today, and one pieces back.
They’re found in practically every store, with designers drawing inspiration from every decade of the 20th century. Think Elizabeth Taylor in Suddenly, last Summer (1959), to Bo Derek in 10 (1979). Then, of course, there’s Baywatch (the show, the movie… all of it).
Maillots, high-leg swimsuits, Surf & Swim rashguard-inspired looks, and retro throwbacks with bows and cut-outs are all the rage. The reason we love them is that they allow you to be as sexy as you want – while covering up as much or as little as you want.
Check out these 12 stylish one pieces that are gonna make you the #girlboss of your next sand-and-sea bash or pool party. Not hitting the water just yet? They’re super easy to dress up or down with a kaftan or a pair of sexy jean shorts.
Beach, please… You know you want them all.
https://www.herworld.com/fashion/sexy-swimming-costume-bathing-suits-summer-beach-trends/
12 one piece bathing suits
The Marina swimsuit by SKIN, $110 available on Net-a-Porter
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The plunging neckline and the low, scooped cross-back gives this piece an edge. Made from a quick-dry, two-way stretch material, it’s elegant and sexy in all the right ways.
Cover Houndstooth Swimsuit, $278 available on Net-a-Porter
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If you still want to bask under the sun but don’t want to over-tan, opt for this long-sleeved piece fashioned in houndstooth.
Santa Barbara one-shoulder scalloped swimsuit, $458 available on Net-a-Porter
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The one-shoulder trend gets a boost with these scalloped edges, and the ribbed material in this rich emerald hue is a winner. Made from stretch crepe that helps sculpt the body, this piece could easily double as a bodysuit.
Gucci printed swimsuit, $629, available on Net-a-Porter
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Are you feeling the logo-mania? This tank-style suit in striking red features the house’s GG motif and is a nod to the brand’s iconic T-shirts. Made from a glossy stretch fabric with criss-cross straps, we definitely are loving this one that also rides the bodysuit wave (check out surfer Maya Gabeira’s Insta and this Gucci page for inspo).
Solid & Striped Colour Block One Piece, $218.53 available on Moda Operandi
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Whoever said one pieces aren’t sexy obviously forgot how a good cut-out works. This daring one piece is strappy, sexy, and plays on the high-waisted trend. Now that we think about it, though, it’s probably not a bad idea to do your crunches before sporting this look.
Zimmerman Frill One Piece, $286 available on Shopbop
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This beautiful navy design gets ruching and ruffles right, combining both comfort and style. It also comes with an optional halter tie to amp up the 1970s throwback vibe.
Malai Fishbone Army Bandeau One Piece, $232.12, available at The Orchard Boutique
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Tie me up, tie me down! This army-green piece has a military-tropic vibe, while its corset detailing provides tonnes of sex appeal.
Tia One Piece – Urban, $139.00, available at Pinksalt
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This local brand offers light, feminine pieces that are perfect for those who love a good print.
Coral Porcelain Corset KBlu (limited edition), $350, KBlu Swim
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Singapore brand KBlu’s pieces are of high quality, and this corset-style swimsuit is both flattering and sexy.
Sahara Nights Cap Sleeve One Piece, $209, Seafolly
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With a print inspired by the Sahara desert, this rashguard design from Seafolly has a sporty appeal that’s still playful and pretty. Don’t let the cap sleeves fool you – not fully covered up, since it features a sexy cut-out in the back.
Cut-out Swimsuit, $54.95 from H&M
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Sexy doesn’t have to be expensive. Get this chic, monochrome swimsuit that’s all about subtlety is a steal at this price point.
Sports Swimsuit, $54.95 from H&M
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This zip-up design is great for a serious pool workout. The racerback top and mesh panelling just above the waist makes this feel extra-sporty. Don’t like the dark plum colour? It’s also available in black.
ALSO READ: THE ULTIMATE FIGURE-FLATTERING SWIMWEAR CHEATSHEET: OUR TOP 10 PICKS FOR DIFFERENT BODY TYPES
