Fashion

17 Unique Bathing Suits That Will Get You Pumped To Shed The Layers

Much like finding the perfect pair of jeans, finding the perfect swimsuit is a nearly impossible feat that will test all your limits until you think you're going to burst in your underpants in a dressing room that looks like the swim section exploded in it. But instead of getting discouraged, and just giving up hope overall, it’s important to do some research before you go out and really start your hunt for a summer ensemble that has to endure a vacation, road trip, and occasional pool outing.

Thankfully, this summer’s styles aren’t your typical, boring LBB (little black bikini) or bright floral one-pieces. Stores and online shops are actually becoming quite innovative with their swimsuit designs, from including laser cut detailing to incorporating sheer fabric and lace lining. So, no longer is your swimsuit restricted to just sun and water! It can also be paired with your favorite wardrobe pieces.

Here are 17 unique swimsuits that are guaranteed to rock your summer and beyond.

by Melodi Erdogan

Whimsical Graphics

Sometimes it’s almost like bathing suits compete against each other to see which can reveal yet conceal the most. If it actually was a competition, this bathing suit would win. Although it’s a single swimsuit, it’s quite daring because of the strategically placed appliques. That being said, it’s also fun and flirty and would make for a perfect companion for a day on the beach.

Lee + Lani Praia Net Swimsuit, $158, nastygal.com

See Similar: Lee + Lani Kissing Flamingo Bathing Suit, $265, nastygal.com

Bright and Athletic

Everyone loves a bright bikini. And when it’s lined with black like this one, it’s even better. This bikini with extra support is a pretty coral color and would fit in perfectly with a colorful summer wardrobe.

ASOS Curve Mix & Match 50s Halter Bikini Top with Contrast and Support, $36, asos.com

See Similar: Neoprene Bikini, $20, Amazon

Long Sleeved

This top shouldn’t only be limited to the beach, the pool, or really any of your summer plans. Because neoprene is such a popular fabric these days, this cropped top would look as good paired with a flowing maxi skirt as with a matching black bikini bottom. It will keep you stylish and on trend for summer and many seasons to come.

Vitamin A Halle Crop Rash Guard, $100, nastygal.com

See Similar: Mesh Surf Suit, $20, Amazon

Black Lace

Who says you can’t incorporate a little lace into your swimsuit? This one-piece defines your waist with two chevron stripes in a floral black lace, in addition to supporting your chest area with a halter top. It’s got everything you need, and that extra detail that makes it leagues prettier than your basic, average black one-piece.

Jessica Simpson Plus Size Crocheted-Illusion One-Piece Swimsuit, $118, macys.com

See Similar: Lace One-Piece Swimsuit, $17, Amazon

Printed With Lace

A plunging neckline, black lace, and a floral print? This swimsuit is guaranteed to be your new favorite. With extra support and girly details, this one-piece is a classic fit and form that’s sure to last you years beyond your first summer together.

Lace-Front Maillot, $98, anthropologie.com

See Similar: Lace-Back Bathing Suit, $14, Amazon

Off The Shoulder

If there’s anything Bridgette Bardot taught us, it’s that a little shoulder action provides infinite amounts of allure, as does this Bardot-inspired one-piece. Besides its flirty shape, its blue and white polka-dot pattern also makes this suit chic for the beachside or great for pairing with shorts for drinks on the water.

Wolf & Whistle Bardot Swimsuit Size D-F, $45, asos.com

See Similar: Off The Shoulder Bathing Suit Top, $30, Amazon

Black Mesh

Black mesh on a swimsuit? Say it ain’t so! This swimsuit top can be your favorite on beach outfit as well as your favorite off beach crop top. The sheer neckline and black lining is guaranteed to make a splash at your next summer outing.

Mesh High-Neck Bikini Top, $18, forever21.com

See Similar: Mesh Racerback Bikini, $16, Amazon

Python Details

Wearing this python print swim top won’t turn you into a cold-blooded animal, but the compliments you’ll get while wearing it will warm you up. With extra long halter straps that form around the bust, this top is absolutely gorgeous and easily paired under a low cut shirt or dress.

Swim Sexy Python Plus Size Bandeau/Halter Bikini Top, $30, swimwearlux.com

See Similar: Python Bathing Suit, $30, Amazon

Fringed

Talk about a banging swimsuit. Capitalizing on the latest fringe trend, this piece will make you feel on trend and fabulous at all times, even if/when there are screaming beach babies in your vicinity.

Boho Breezy One-Piece In Navy, $129, modcloth.com

See Similar: Fringed One Piece, $25, Amazon

Galaxy Print

You’re always welcome to reach for the stars, and this swimsuit will let you do that even from the comfort of a beautiful beach. Galaxy printed clothing items have been everywhere, but this neoprene swimsuit is especially different since stars and comets are so unexpected when you’re wading in water.

Esther Williams Bathing Beauty One-Piece Swimsuit in Rainbow Galaxy, $90, modcloth.com

See Similar: One-Piece Galaxy Swimsuit, $10, Amazon

Staple Stripes

Another classic swimsuit print is stripes. But instead of overdoing the stripes and patterns, this bikini sticks to a classic black and white combo in a bow top and matching high-waisted bottoms.

Peekaboo Striped Swim Top, $35, torrid.com

See Similar: Pin Up Striped Bathing Suit, $16, Amazon

Sheer and Banded

Another wardrobe-like swimsuit is this black, banded sheer version. Although it’s quite covered up, the sheer fabric and black netting is undeniably sexy. This swimsuit isn’t necessarily only for the beach, because it would look just as pretty paired with denim cutoffs or even a formal skirt and heels. No matter your summer vacation plans, this suit will surely be your partner in crime.

OYE Esther One Piece, $350, bikini.com

See Similar: Strappy Halter Swimwear, $14, Amazon

Beach Jewelry

While you’re better off leaving your fancy jewelry at home (it’s almost impossible to find anything in the sand), why not invest in a bikini with jewelry-inspired detailing? This “Necklace Tank” provides support with a gold choker that adorns your neck, just like your favorite statement necklace.

Very Sexy Necklace Tank, $65-$69, victoriassecret.com

See Similar: Gold Chain Sexy Bikini, $23, Amazon

Laser Cut

This laser cut bandeau top is customizable to give you the best fit to feel comfortable in for a day at the beach, so you can leave the straps straight or cross them for better support. Very sea shell-inspired, you’ll feel right at home in this suit with the sand in your toes.

Last Cut Bandeau Bikini Top, $60, lanebryant.com

See Similar: Laser-Cut Bathing Suit, $28, Macy’s

Surf Suit

Whether you’re a surfer or not, this swimsuit is undeniably pretty and detailed for the one-piece it is. With long sleeves, a girly sweetheart neckline, and even a defined waist, it’s unique and gorgeous for on and off the sand.

Seea Hermosa One-Piece Surf Suit, $138, urbanoutfitters.com

See Similar: Jackie One-Piece Surf Suit, $70, urbanoutfitters.com

Floral Support

You can never go wrong with a black and white floral print bikini. But this one has extra under wire support to keep your girls in check while you’re relaxing and soaking up the summer sun.

Inky Floral Underwire Bikini Top, $58, jcrew.com

See Similar: Women’s Floral Halter Bikini, $18, Amazon

Goes With Everything

When shopping for bikinis, it’s common to love a top and not be too crazy about the matching bottom, or vice versa. To get rid of all those troubles, invest in a pretty, colorful top like this to match almost every bottom you might already own. Whether it’s a solid color or another print, a bright mixture of shades like this top will look great with plenty of bottoms.

Kenneth Cole Separates Darling Ditsy Underwire Bikini Top, $74, alwaysforme.com

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