Top-rated single-piece bathing suits for a flawless beach look
Deciding on the Best One-Piece Swimsuits: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you seeking a versatile swimwear option that's perfect for both pool activities and beach days? A one-piece swimsuit could be your ideal choice, offering a timeless and comfortable appearance.
Factors to Consider When Buying Women's One-Piece Swimsuits
Style
Classic one-piece swimsuits with a tank-style top and bikini-cut bottom are commonly known as maillots, although this term is rarely used today. The maillot remains the most common style, but various other options are available. You can find styles with short-cut or skirt bottoms, high necks, and sleeves. Gender-neutral styles are also available for those who wish to explore them.
Size
To ensure a proper fit, it's crucial to choose the right size when purchasing a swimsuit. In most cases, selecting your usual dress size should provide a good fit, but some swimsuits may run larger or smaller. Be sure to consult the sizing chart before buying to avoid any potential issues. Unfortunately, many manufacturers limit their sizes up to a 18, but inclusive sizing options and plus-size brands can be found.
Neckline
One-piece swimsuits come in a variety of necklines, empowering you to choose one that suits your style preferences. Some styles feature tank-style necklines, while others offer low scoop or plunge necks and those that sit above the collarbones.
Qualities of a High-Quality One-Piece Swimsuit
Color Choices
A plethora of color choices helps make your swimsuit choice more enjoyable while maintaining the desired style. Black is always a classic choice, but some might prefer brighter colors or bold prints.
Elastane Content
A blend of nylon and elastane or Lycra is typically used in swimsuits, requiring an appropriate balance to maintain the swimsuit's shape without causing discomfort. A 20% elastane or Lycra content seems to be the optimal balance.
Expected Cost of a One-Piece Swimsuit
The cost of essential one-piece swimsuits starts around $20, while designer swimsuits can cost upwards of $400. However, you may not need to spend more than $100 on a non-designer one-piece swimsuit.
Frequently Asked Questions About One-Piece Swimsuits
Are One-Piece Swimsuits Fashionable?
Some individuals may worry that one-piece swimsuits seem unfashionable or outdated. However, many people favor one-piece swimsuits, and they can indeed be incredibly stylish. The key is to select a swimsuit that you find attractive and feel comfortable in, rather than following passing trends. A simple, classic one-piece swimsuit will never go out of style.
Can One-Piece Swimsuits be Machine Washed?
While some one-piece swimsuits are machine washable, the majority require hand washing to preserve their longevity. Machine-washing can cause fading, sagging, and damage, even to those labeled as machine-safe. If you're pressed for time, you can machine wash your swimsuit on the lowest temperature setting with a gentle detergent, and ensure it's air-dried.
Recommended One-Piece Swimsuits
Top One-Piece Swimsuit
SUMMERSALT The Sidestroke One Piece Swimsuit
Known as "the unicorn of swimsuits" on The Today Show, this popular one-piece swimsuit offers comfort, flattering designs, and 78% recycled polyamide. The one-shoulder, front-lined design provides compression and support without the need for cups or padding.
Top One-Piece Swimsuit for the Money
Women's Lands' End Tugless Sporty Chlorine Resistant One-Piece Swimsuit
Affordably priced, this swimsuit is available in a wide range of colors, features a built-in shelf bra for chest support, and provides UPF 50 sun protection.
Worth Checking Out
Dolfin Color Block Aquatard Swimsuit
With short-style legs, this swimsuit offers practicality and contemporary style. It's highly durable, stands up well to regular use, is fully lined with a shelf bra for chest support, and has a scoop back design.
Prices listed are subject to change.
Check out our daily deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspiration and sales.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.
You can enhance your lifestyle with a fashion-and-beauty touch by selecting a stylish one-piece swimsuit for the pool or beach. Afterward, upgrade your home-and-garden while preserving your swimsuit's longevity by properly washing it in the recommended way.
