Best One-Piece Suits for the Beach
Get suited up for your next beach vacation with one-piece suits in an array of styles. Whether you prefer to lounge on the sand or tackle the waves, there’s a swimsuit that’s right for you. One-piece swimsuits come in sizes to fit every body type, whether your size is regular, petite, plus, or tall.
Check out our picks for beach-worthy swimwear styles that work just as well for a day at the lake or a backyard pool party.
Scoop Neck
The scoop-neck one-piece is a classic swimwear design. It comes in a wide variety of colors and prints, so you can find a scoop-neck swimsuit that expresses your individual style. If you like a classic, understated look, you can’t go wrong with solid black or navy. If bold-and-bright is your preferred style, look for scoop-neck suits with tropical motifs, color-block patterns, or elegant paisley.
V-Neck
If you want a one-piece swimsuit with a sleek look, opt for a V-neck. This style flatters every body type and comes in designs including the basic V-neck and the surplice V-neck. A surplice bodice is also known as a wrap style because the two halves of the suit top cross over each other for a figure-enhancing effect. Like scoop-neck suits, V-necks come in a wide range of colors and prints from neutral to vibrant.
Square Neck
Square-neck one-piece suits have an elegant look that some may even describe as retro-inspired. Often, square-neck swimsuits have a higher neckline than some of the other styles, which may appeal if you prefer a modest look. Some square-neck swimsuits have details such as criss-cross back straps to add an on-trend touch, and they come in universally flattering colors including black and navy.
Grecian
There are also Grecian one-piece swimsuits, which have shirred details and a neckline that combines elements from V-neck and square-neck styles. Whether you want a suit in rich royal purple, ocean-inspired turquoise blue, or a colorful floral, you’ll find multiple options when shopping for this popular swimwear style.
Bandeau
Enjoy fashion versatility with a bandeau one-piece. This swimsuit style has a square, straight-across neckline that resembles a tube top from the ’80s. Most bandeau swimsuits have removable straps, so you can wear them with or without straps. Paisley, palm trees, and stripes are just a few of the bandeau swimsuit prints you may find.
Zip-Front
Then there’s the zip-front swimsuit. This one-piece swimsuit offers modesty thanks to the high neckline, and it comes in tank top and long-sleeve styles. There are zip-front swimsuits made for post-mastectomy wear, along with those designed for water sports. Like other suits, this style comes in solid colors and prints to suit your fashion preferences.
More Tips for Choosing a Swimsuit
In addition to neckline style, color, and print, there are other considerations when selecting swimwear. For maximum wear, choose a swimsuit that’s chlorine-resistant. Chlorine-resistant swimsuits retain their shape and fit even after extended wear, and they’re also colorfast to prevent fading. They’re not just for the pool, either. These suits are excellent for the beach, as they also resist wear and fading caused by saltwater.
Another feature to look for is a no-tug bottom that stays put, whether you’re swimming or playing beach volleyball. If you want a streamlined look, there are suits made with Slendertex® fabric. Swimsuit bra style is another consideration. For comfort and support, a soft-cup style is a good choice. There are also shelf bras and underwire bras that provide extra lift for your bust.
Beach Cover-Ups
It’s a good idea to have a swimsuit cover-up to wear after swimming. They come in a wide variety of styles and colors, including on-trend keyhole-neck dresses that you can wear to a beachfront restaurant or casual store trip. They come in knee-length and long styles, both of which pair well with slides, flip flops, or even heeled sandals. There are also long sleeve rash guard shirts that provide UPF 50 protection for covered areas of the body. While cover-ups and swimsuits with UPF don’t eliminate the need for sunblock, they do offer additional protection against the sun’s rays.
Beach Bags and Accessories
When headed to the beach, prepare by packing essentials in a canvas tote bag. Personalized beach towels are a must-have, along with sunblock, an insulated water bottle, snacks, and reading material. Water shoes are another accessory you may want to toss in your tote. Even if you wear sandals or another type of footwear, water shoes protect your feet while wading along the shore or showering in a public locker room.
There are so many one-piece swimsuit styles that you may want several to match your mood. One day might call for a black scoop-neck, while the next you might feel like wearing a shirred V-neck in a bright print. The most important factor is that you love what you’re wearing, so choose the suit that makes you feel your best.