A while back, I made a decision to put more effort into my swimsuit styling. I stopped thinking about swim wear as something to throw on and honestly, my summers have gotten so much better. Apart from the fact that I genuinely enjoy putting these looks together, the pictures, memories and compliments really make the effort worth it.
We know that swimsuit season can feel both exciting and nerve-racking. You want to look good, feel comfortable, and actually enjoy yourself. So, in this article, we are taking some of that tension off your mind by showing you some swimsuit outfits that will add a wow factor to your sun soaked days.
Whether you’re heading to the beach, pool, or dinner after a long day of sunbathing, these eight looks below are guaranteed to make this read worth it.
8 Swimsuit Outfit Ideas for Women
A swimsuit does not have to be basic, with the right styling, it can carry you from the beach to a cafe, from the pool to a sunset dinner. Here are some outfit ideas that work for every body type and summer occasion.
1. Bikini + denim cutoffs
A bikini top paired with high-waisted denim cutoffs is effortlessly cool perfect for seashore activities. The high waist works for everybody because it defines the waist while giving extra coverage to the hips I love this denim addition because it pairs beautifully with any bikini top style. Add flat sandals or sneakers, a pair of oversized sunglasses, and a simple tote bag and you have a full summer look.
Style it up: throw on a crochet cardigan or an open linen shirt over the top for a more covered-up version that still looks beachy.
Body tip: curvy women, go for high-waisted bottoms that sit at the natural waist. Petite women, choose a shorter cut on the shorts to keep the legs looking long.
2. Bikini + linen trousers
A bikini under a linen set is one of those chic beach-to-brunch transitions that make it easy to deal with the summer heat. It looks like an upscale fashion choice, especially when the look is completed with the right accessories. Choose a muted tone for the top and pair it with wide-leg linen pants in a complementary shade. Strappy sandals, a tote bag and small gold jewellery finish this look.
Style it up: add a wide-brim straw hat and a pair of cat-eye sunglasses for full coastal chic energy.
Body tip: tall girls and athletic bodies look amazing in this combination. Curvy girls, try a belted one-piece tucked in rather than plain for extra waist definition.
3. Bikini + crochet mini skirt
Crochet cover-ups are having a major moment and I’m loving it. A simple crochet mini skirt thrown over a bikini bottom gives just enough coverage to feel comfortable walking around, grabbing food, or sitting at a beach bar, without taking away from your swimsuit at all.
The open weave keeps it breezy and the boho texture adds a really unique detail to the overall look. This works with both bikinis and one-pieces and takes about thirty seconds to pull off.
Style it up: layer with a matching crochet top or bralette for a coordinated set look.
Body tip: Works nicely on every body. Petite girls, keep the skirt short and high-waisted. Curvy girls, choose a wrap-style crochet skirt for an adjustable and flattering fit.
4. Black bikini + black mini dress
For women who love an all-black everything moment even at the beach, this one is for you. Layer a black bikini under a black crochet or mesh mini dress for a cool, effortless look that works for a beach party, a sunset dinner, or an afternoon by the pool.
The mix of textures between the swimsuit and the dress keeps the monochrome look interesting. Add dark leather sandals, oversized sunglasses, and gold layered jewellery to complete the vibe.
Style it up: swap the sandals for strappy heeled mules and you have a look that goes straight to a night by the water.
Body tip: black is universally flattering, and the all-one-tone look is especially slimming and elegant on curvy and plus-size bodies.
5. One-piece + oversized linen shirt + shorts
Push your one-piece swimwear to its full potential by throwing on a pair of denim or linen shorts, and layer an oversized linen shirt on top. This look is also a time saver because an off white shirt and denim shorts will go with any colour of one-piece you own. This a formula you can repeat all summer long with different bathing suits and colour combos.
Style it up: tie the shirt at the waist instead of leaving it open for a more defined, put-together look.
Body tip: this look is incredibly versatile across all body types. Curvy girls, go for a higher-waisted pair of shorts to keep the proportion balanced under the open shirt.
6. Strapless one-piece + wrap skort
Switch things up with a strapless one-piece paired with a simple wrap skort in a neutral or matching tone is fresh, polished, and incredibly easy to style. The skort adds a layer of coverage while the swimwear peeks underneath. Keep the accessories fun with sea shells, cowries or beaded jewellery. Put on a pair of strappy sandals, and let the clean lines of the outfit do all the talking.
Style it up: match the skort to the swimsuit for an elevated look
Body tip: Works well on athletic and tall bodies. Petite girls, keep the skort short and pair it with heeled sandals to add height.
7. Bikini top + bold maxi skirt
This one is for the girl who wants to look like she just stepped off a yacht. A simple bikini top paired with a floor-length maxi skirt in a bold colour is one of those combinations that makes you look covergirl ready.
The dramatic skirt and the simple bikini create a really striking silhouette and the flowing fabric in the breeze. Trust me, this makes for the most amazing photos. A belt or waistband detail at the top of the skirt adds a snatched effect and keeps everything in place.
Style it up: go for a bold colour like gold, burnt orange, cobalt blue, or deep red against a simple black or white bikini top for the most striking contrast. Add a cuff bracelet and statement earrings and you are ready.
Body tip: the high-waisted skirt is especially flattering on curvy and pear-shaped bodies. Tall girls can go for an extra-long skirt that fully grazes the floor for full drama. Petite girls, choose a skirt that sits right at the waist.
8. Printed bikini + lace-trim kimono + head scarf
If the boho aethetic is your thing, this look was made for you. A printed bikini layered under a flowy kimono with fringe details is one of those simple but stylish beach combinations. Tie the kimono loosely at the waist to keep the shape relaxed and feminine.
The head scarf is what really elevates the whole look, it adds colour, personality, and that summer festival energy that is just so good. Layer in some fine gold chains and a delicate necklace and you have something really special.
Style it up: match the colour of the head scarf to one of the tones in your bikini print for a coordinated look. Add oversized sunglasses and leather sandals to complete the outfit.
Body tip: the open kimono silhouette works on every body type. Curvy girls, tie the kimono at the waist to create definition. Athletic builds, go for a longer kimono to add softness and flow to the overall shape.
Final Thoughts
Swimsuit season should be something to look forward to. When you know which styles work for your body and how to build an outfit around your swimsuit, getting dressed for the beach or pool becomes enjoyable. Start with the right suit for your shape, have fun with the styling, sort out the practical details like a seamless underwear and a concealer pad, and then just show up and have a great time. That is really all there is to it.
