A Bodysuit Is the Single Most Versatile Piece In Your Wardrobe

(Image credit: Future)

published 15 May 2020

The ingenious bodysuit was invented by French gymnast Jules Leotard (go figure), but wearing one isn't just for perfecting a dismount. They've successfully made their transition from the balance beam to a highbrow wardrobe staple—just ask any French woman. A second-skin fit is the key to assembling a polished look with absolutely no tucking-in required. Sure, a one-piece can play shape-shifter underneath your slinky summer skirts and dresses, but with an abundance of prints, embellishments, and trims, bodysuits have endless outfit-making potential. Some of the past decades' most iconic looks (see: Cindy Crawford's '90s Pepsi commercial) were only made possible by onesies! Whether you're dressing for day, play, or off-duty, there's likely a version to match your mood, and a price point to fit your budget. Here's just a few ways to style them.

A Picnic In The Park

This high-neck, striped bodysuit is the perfect companion for a floaty maxi skirt. Break up horizontal stripes by pairing them with an artsy floral pattern and subdued accessories— like this wicker hat and platform espadrille.

1.Free People Bodysuit, $40; 2. Sensi Studio Hat, $185; 3. JW Anderson Hoop Earrings, $290; 4. Wiggy Kit Skirt, $540; 5. Aldo Espadrille, $59.98

Carpool Duty

Denim, Jeans, Clothing, White, Product, Footwear, Waist, Pocket, Textile, Trousers,

Be the coolest mom in the carpool lane with a simple white bodysuit that you can pair with absolutely anything. For shlepping the kiddos around, go with an elongating '70s inspired jean, and rose-gold sunnies to shield weary eyes. A roomy canvas tote has a detachable strap and expanding sides, so you can utilize it as a purse, gym bag, or carry-on.

1.Re/done Bodysuit, $120; 2. Kaleos Sunglasses, $247; 3. Citizens of Humanity, $278; 4. H&M Buckle Belt, $17.99; 5. Rue de Verneuil Tote Bag, $251; 6. Valextra Sneakers, $655

Sara Holzman is the Style Director at Marie Claire, covering runway trends and tracking down the latest finds to buy and wear. When she’s not writing about fashion, she pens about the best places to jet-off to. Over her six years with Marie Claire, Sara has reported on the ever-evolving world of fashion— covering both established and emerging designers within the industry. Sara has held fashion positions at Lucky and SELF Magazine and was a regular contributor to Equinox’s Furthermore website, where she wrote across their style, wellness, and travel verticals. She holds a degree in Journalism from the University of Missouri, Columbia, and currently resides in Manhattan. Follow her along at @sarajonewyork.