When people think of a one-piece swimsuit, they often imagine a simple, sporty suit or a classic black number. But the truth is, one-pieces have come a long way. Today, they come in tons of styles that cater to all kinds of preferences—modest, sexy, retro, high-performance, and everything in between.

Whether you’re planning a vacation, curating a swimwear collection, or just want to understand your options, here’s your ultimate breakdown of the most popular—and most underrated—types of one-piece swimsuits out there.

1. Classic One-Piece

Simple, sleek, and timeless. Usually features a moderate leg cut, full bottom coverage, and a scoop or V neckline. This is the go-to choice for minimalists and anyone who wants something clean and elegant.

2. Tank One-Piece (Tank Suit)

With wide, bra-like straps and higher necklines, tank suits provide more support and coverage. Often made for swimming and water sports, but also popular as modest or athletic swimwear.

Great for: active swimmers, larger busts, everyday comfort.

3. Swimdress

A hybrid between a one-piece and a dress. Swimdresses offer full coverage with a skirted overlay and are especially popular for those who want a more modest or vintage-inspired look.

Great for: full-figure comfort, modesty, or retro aesthetics.

4. Bandeau One-Piece

Strapless or with optional detachable straps, the bandeau offers clean lines for tanning and an elegant neckline. Many come with internal support like boning or silicone bands.

Great for: minimal tan lines, chic styling, pear-shaped bodies.

5. Plunge One-Piece

Defined by its dramatic deep V neckline, the plunge is for those who want a bit of sexy flair without baring the midriff. Some include mesh inserts for support.

Great for: small to medium busts, fashion-forward vacation looks.

6. Halter One-Piece

With a tie or clasp around the neck, halter styles provide adjustable bust support and often create a flattering neckline. Ideal for enhancing cleavage.

Great for: retro vibes, lift and support.

7. One-Shoulder One-Piece

Asymmetrical and modern, this style adds sophistication and edge. It’s a favorite among designers for its fashion-forward appeal.

Great for: standing out subtly, structured silhouettes.

8. Monokini / Side Cut-Out

This flirty style features large cut-outs at the sides, back, or even down the center, creating a bikini-meets-one-piece hybrid. Some have strategic paneling or ties.

Great for: bold style lovers, confident beachwear, sunbathing.

9. High-Leg / High-Cut One-Piece

Inspired by ‘80s and ‘90s fashion, the high-cut leg visually elongates your legs. Usually paired with a cheeky or moderate bottom.

Great for: showing off curves, creating long-leg illusions.

10. Thong or Cheeky One-Piece

Less coverage in the back, more attitude overall. These styles are sexy, flattering, and often seen on beaches and Instagram feeds alike.

Great for: confident wearers, tanning, minimal tan lines.

11. Long-Sleeve One-Piece

Ideal for sun protection or surf sessions, this style often includes UPF fabrics, zip-fronts, and sleek silhouettes. Think of it as a stylish rash guard.

Great for: water sports, surfing, sun safety, coverage.

12. Zipper Front One-Piece

A sporty-meets-sexy design featuring a front zipper (functional or decorative). You can adjust the neckline, and the zipper often adds a modern or athletic feel.

Great for: surf aesthetics, customizable fit, sporty edge.

13. Wrap-Front or Belted One-Piece

These styles mimic the wrap dress—flattering the waist and enhancing the hourglass shape. Belts or sashes add a polished finish.

Great for: adding shape, high-fashion poolside looks.

14. Skirted One-Piece (vs. Swimdress)

Unlike swimdresses that look like full dresses, skirted one-pieces include just a mini skirt over a traditional bottom. A little flounce goes a long way.

Great for: covering hips or thighs without full coverage.

15. Performance/Racing One-Piece

Designed for function over fashion, these are the suits Olympic athletes wear. High-tech fabrics, compression fits, and racerbacks make them ideal for swimming laps.

Great for: lap swimmers, water sports, serious training.

Honorable Mentions:

• Convertible One-Piece: Features removable straps, reversible colors, or multi-way ties for maximum versatility.

• Mesh Panel One-Piece: Uses sheer mesh inserts to give illusion and structure—often seen in high-fashion swimwear.

• Retro Pin-Up Styles: Ruching, sweetheart necklines, and full coverage bottoms channel old-Hollywood glamour.

Choosing the Right Style for You

Each style serves a different purpose—so the best one really depends on your vibe, your body, and how you want to feel at the beach or by the pool. Here are a few quick tips:

• Want more support? Try a tank, halter, or long-sleeve style with built-in cups.

• Want to show more skin? Go for a plunge, high-cut, or cut-out style.

• Want something modest? Swimdresses, skirted suits, and tank styles are your friends.

• Looking for multi-purpose fashion? One-shoulder, belted, or bandeau one-pieces work great as bodysuits too.

The one-piece swimsuit is no longer just a conservative or practical choice—it’s a canvas for self-expression, innovation, and fashion.