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Welcome to The Essentials, our weekly series highlighting a must-have classic, key to building a timeless, pulled-together closet.
One-piece swimsuits aren't relegated to the lap pool. With a reputation that's skewed matronly in the past, the maillot has been allotted new, modern sex appeal. A one-piece can make you a sultry Baywatch babe, all without the pitfalls of a twisted-up string bikini. Plunging necklines, swooping backs, and intricate strap details are just a few variations on the classic one-piece, giving butt-cheek baring two-pieces a dose of friendly competition. Built with a practical framework, the one-piece wins on beach days, and scores big on summer beach nights. Sport one with a breezy maxi skirt or pair it with a high-rise jean. Skeptics should envision themselves in an elegant one-shoulder version on the Italian Riviera or a gingham check for fireworks off a pier. There are so many options, you'll forget you ever owned a two-piece! Below, 13 to choose from.
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1
Shani Swimsuit
Andrea Iyamah
andreaiyamah.com
$175.00
This low-back, high-waisted swimsuit will deliver style at the pool, but can double as a bodysuit, when paired with mid-rise jeans.
2
Andrea Rib One Piece
While the form and fit almost resembles a corset, the ribbed knit fabric and a summertime hue begs for the beach.
3
Lola Nageur One Piece
Lemlem
lemlem.com
$250.00
Made in Morocco, this swimsuit's sultry low back offsets the sweet shoulder bows. Pair it with a short ruffle skirt for lunch on the water.
4
Cheetah Print One-Piece
Ganni
modaoperandi.com
$176.00
Feel great about rocking this one-piece knowing it's made from 100% recycled polyester. Offset the animal print with a minimalist linen sarong and a straw beach tote.
5
One-Shoulder Swimsuit
Marysia
matchesfashion.com
$300.00
A classic black one-piece (i.e. this one) should exist in every woman's swim wardrobe. A single strap adds an air of sophistication that pairs perfectly with a wide-brimmed hat and oversized sunnies.
6
Belted Swimsuit
Eres
net-a-porter.com
$495.00
Invest in a quality swimsuit once, and you can turn to it year after year. A built-in belt cinches your waist and adds a no-fuss accessory.
7
Floral Print Swimsuit
Fendi
farfetch.com
$581.00
This retro swimsuit not only plays to your curves, it also transcends the pool or beach. Go ahead, pop on white jeans and a pair of leather flats to hit the streets.
8
Strapless Graphic Print Swimsuit
Cala de la Cruz
matchesfashion.com
$221.00
Crafted by local artisans in Columbia, this graphic black-and-white one-piece will transport you to far flung places— even when you're confined to the backyard.
9
Gingham Printed Swimsuit
Ephemera
matchesfashion.com
$254.00
You'll never tire of a gingham print swimsuit, the quintessential pick for summer pool parties.
10
Strapless Parrot Swimsuit
Cult Gaia x Adriana Degreas
adrianadegreas.com
$750.00
Channel the nature vibes of Brazil in this macaw appliqué swimsuit. The one-piece features a mesh middle so the design looks imprinted on your skin while the strapless style helps you avoid shoulder tan lines.
11
Bond One Piece
Jade Swim
jadeswim.com
$245.00
If you're looking for something a little different, try out this cut-out, sash-tie one-piece with loads of built-in details.
12
Lipsi One-Piece Swimsuit
Tory Burch
shopbop.com
$228.00
This sporty two-toned one-piece has molded underwire cups and a flattering waistband, but also plays nice on the sand volleyball courts. We couldn't ask for more.
13
One-Piece Swimsuit
Bromelia Swimwear
shop.bromeliario.com
$99.00
This black one-piece has amazing stretch capabilities that will pull you in. The racerback straps keep it secure, while the backside has a cheeky bottom fit.
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Marina Liao
Marina Liao is the fashion news editor at MarieClaire.com, where she covers celebrity style (from Meghan Markle to Katie Holmes), fashion trends, and shopping advice, plus conducts original interviews with industry insiders.
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