Get more milage out of your swim wardrobe.
There are probably a few pieces in your closet that you consider to be wardrobe workhorses: the blazer you wear to every fancy-ish event; the dress you keep in rotation for when you’re running late; the jeans you throw on at least three times per week. But what if I told you there’s something hiding in your closet that could make getting dressed in the morning that much easier—something you probably didn’t even consider to be “real clothes”? I’m talking about your swimsuits. Yep—the bikinis and one-pieces that you reserve for pool time are key to expanding your warm-weather wardrobe in new ways. All it takes is a bit of creativity to reimagine your swim collection as substitutes for bras, tops, and even bodysuits.
Ahead, three easy ways to style a swimsuit for everyday wear.
The only thing separating your bodysuits from your one-piece bathing suits is likely the fabric. While most bodysuits are made in cotton-Spandex, Lycra, or other man-made fibers that allow for some stretch, most bathing suits, like the Summersalt’s Sidestroke, is made with fast-drying polyamide and elastane, which doubles as sweat-wicking fabric for truly hot days. Pair it with trousers or jeans just like you would any other bodysuit, et voila.
One of my favorite ways to get extra mileage out of my bathing suit tops is to style them like a crop top. Whether you opt for something basic like a black scoop-neck top or something more exciting like Summersalt’s The Triangle Bikini Top in Modern Zebra, it’ll look great when paired with a high-waisted pair of Bermuda shorts or slouchy trousers. Top it with a jacket like a blazer or bomber for extra coverage.
My absolute favorite way to keep my bathing suits in rotation off the sand is to wear them like I would a tank or a pretty bra—meant to be seen, but maybe not in its entirety. The cinched detailing gives some dimension to the look without feeling like it’s out of place, too. I like to pair mine with a breezy short-sleeve button down and a midi skirt, but this look also works with jeans, shorts, or trousers.
Shop the story:
Share
Up Next
One woman’s journey to appreciation versus all-out acceptance.
