High-cut one-piece swimsuits extend their dominance beyond poolside this summer.
Article Rewrite:
Say goodbye to the dreaded one-piece swimsuit of yesteryears. In my teenage days, the embarrassing wedgie disaster and suffocating feeling of a Speedo Endurance swimsuit, coupled with a rubber cap, was a dreaded uniform for mixed-gender swimming lessons at my high school. The overpowering tang of chlorinated water still lingers in those memories. Even as an adult, the one-piece usually leaves me dealing with tan lines, heat, and practical challenges.
But this summer, the one-piece has turned into more than just a poolside essential or a sun lounger prop. It's now a style icon, thanks to its versatility and flattering fit. Net-A-Porter's fashion director Kay Barron is a big fan of making swimwear part of your summer wardrobe, even when there's no beach around. "Selecting the right swimsuit comes down to fit, comfort, and the support your body needs," she tells Vogue, pointing to designers like Staud and Nili Lotan, known for offering swimwear with added underwire and excellent coverage.
The reason this styling trick works? Typically constructed with Spandex and double-lined for durability, swimsuits have a built-in compression similar to Skims, designed to keep everything in place without the need for a bra. Perfect for those hot, sweltering days when the last thing you want is extra layers.
Inspiration for styling the one-piece came from Miu Miu's Spring/Summer 2025 show, where models strode down the runway in vibrant one-pieces in shades of red, blue, navy, and hot pink, all with eye-catching contrast hems and daring cut-outs. Paired with candy-colored lacquered skirts, oversized blazers, pleated midi skirts, leg warmers, and peep-toe pumps, the contrast was intentional and whimsical, demonstrating that a classic one-piece can be easily dressed up with the right separates and accessories.
Tory Burch's sporty runway show featured a swimsuit with sequin embellishments, worn with belted tailored trousers and insignia ballet flats—a more refined take on the everyday trend. Meanwhile, the Zimmerman show opened with excerpts from a '70s Aussie surf film, featuring plunging swimsuits styled with everything from floor-sweeping organza skirts to jorts and butter-yellow trench coats, later seen on Katie Holmes at fashion week. Chloé's floral print and flamingo-covered swimsuits were perfect for picnics in the park when teamed with gathered bloomers or high-waisted flares and grown-up jelly shoes.
Even if you're still haunted by memories of poorly fitting swimsuits, this season's updated take on the one-piece may be the refresh you need! Be it something you already own or a new addition, the one-piece is the ultimate summer multitasker, taking you from beach to brunch and everywhere in between.
1 / 4
Fruity Booty Swimsuit, $157
Available at Fruity Booty.
2 / 4
Burberry Swimsuit, $511
Available at Burberry.
3 / 4
Hunza G Swimsuit, $304
Available at Mytheresa.
4 / 4
Away That Day Swimsuit, $322
Available at Selfridges.
Originally published on Vogue.co.uk*
Tips for Styling Your One-Piece Swimsuit:
- Layering - Add a light jacket or kimono to bring a chic touch to your swimsuit, helping you transition seamlessly from warm to cooler weather. Or go for a casual look with a cardigan or sweater.
- Accessories - Hat, sunglasses, statement jewelry, and shoes can add a chic, effortless vibe to your swimsuit look.
- Pants and Shorts - High-waisted pants or shorts can create a stylish, modern look when paired with your one-piece.
- Skirts - A flowy skirt can add a feminine touch to your swimsuit, creating a playful, summery look suitable for casual outings.
- Belted Looks - Use a belt to cinch the waist, creating a more defined silhouette and instantly transforming your swimsuit.
- Streetwear Influence - Mix your swimsuit with sporty elements like sneakers and a baseball cap for a trendy streetwear-inspired look.
- The one-piece swimsuit, once a poolside essential, has evolved into a versatile fashion statement, similar to the compression of Skims, offering support without the need for a separate bra.
- High-end fashion brands like Staud and Nili Lotan are recognized for their swimwear designs, which include underwire and excellent coverage, making them suitable for various everyday occasions.
- The runway shows of Miu Miu, Tory Burch, Zimmerman, and Chloé have showcased creative ways to style one-pieces, such as pairing them with vibrant skirts, tailored trousers, or even jorts, demonstrating that a simple one-piece can be easily dressed up with the right separates.
- As the one-piece becomes a style icon this summer, it is not limited to the beach or the pool but can seamlessly transition into your lifestyle, serving as a multitasker, taking you from beach to brunch and everywhere in between.
