Revisiting the Sorta Skimpy Black One-Piece
For the rare moments when I'm not hiding from the sun.
After my Rejuran treatment in May, the K-Beauty concierge Jennifer that I used was shocked at how quickly my skin bounced back. “You probably don’t go out into the sun much, right?” was her first comment. 100% correct. I’m a creature of darkness to the point where excessive sunlight makes me depressed — a fact that I quickly learned while living in Los Angeles. But, it’s summer, and at some point I will find myself by a pool or beach willingly or not. And chances are, you’re not as UV-phobic as I am, so it’s time to revisit the only bathing suit I stand by: a sorta-skimpy one-piece.
Let me preface that this is what works best for me as someone who is short, with narrow shoulders, and a small chest that doesn’t require a bra. The more skin I reveal, the better it looks. So anything with a plunging neckline or back (or preferably both) is a win. On the bottom, a cheekier cut helps keep my butt from appearing as if it’s one amorphous lump. Then there are the little details: thick straps and underwire are immediate nos —the former distorts my proportions while the latter is simply uncomfortable. And finally, there’s fabric: I require absolutely no sheen (because it looks cheap) and very light compression, (because again I don’t want to feel uncomfortable.) With all of that in mind, here are some of my current favorites and some others that fit neatly into all of my requirements.
Hands down the first suit in my rotation that I gravitate towards, I first got this Anemos one-piece two years ago and it’s still perfect today. With tiny straps and a high cut back, it reveals just enough to flatter. Plus, it’s marked down to $99 at the moment.
New to my collection is this retro-inspired one by Araks. I’ve always been a fan of their bralettes and slips, and their swimwear is just as well designed. This one is made from recycled nylon and elastane, it’s two thin layers of fabric that feel extremely soft against the skin. Based on the imagery on the site, it also seems to work on larger chests as well. My only note is that you may need to size down. I found that the medium ran a tad large and a small would be better on my frame.
Speaking of Araks, this suit that’s on sale also satisfies all my requirements. Low back? Super thin straps? Plunging neckline? Check, check, and check. It’s like the perfect love child of a triangle bikini and a one piece.
Another brand I’ve worn for years and loved is Mikoh. Founded by Oleema and Kalani Miller, the Hawaii-based label is known for their skimpy yet functional suits. In fact, this brand was the one that completely converted me to a less coverage swimsuit because it really does look that good. The one I have is sadly discontinued but I also love this simple scoop design with a high cut backside.
Left on Friday is a new to me brand but I’m into them so far. Founded by Laura Low Ah Kee and Shannon Savage in 2018, the two met at Lululemon and their experience with athletic apparel shows. The fabric feels soft and smooth against the body and the cuts are extremely flattering like this strappy low back number. They run a tiny bit small, like in a compression Lululemon legging smoothing the body kinda way but not enough to bother me.
You know who else knows their way around a flattering skimpy swimsuit? That would be Brazilian women. Haight, founded by Marcella Franklin in 2015, caught my eye. The Rio-based label has minimalist designs made from soft Lycra blends features high cut legs and low backs. One detail I also like is the horizontal strap across the back, ensuring nothing slides off your shoulders.
This Coperni suit reminds me of the Mikoh one I own with its deep v-front and halter neckline. One detail that makes it different is the little rosette at the shoulder. It has all of the same energy of that inspo Anne Klein image at the top and the best part is that it’s marked down.
Speaking of details, the little faux pearl and silver beading at the chest on this COS one piece sold me. I’m a big believer in piling on the accessories when you’re in a swimsuit to make it look interesting. Otherwise it feels kinda frumpy and like you’re only there to get your laps in (which if you are, then don’t take this piece of advice.)
I really struggled with Hunza G swimsuits. I know everyone loves them but the thick straps did not work on my frame. But now that they’ve come out with a thin strap, low back version, I’m much more into them. The signature one size fits most fabric is really flattering, especially in this silhouette.
See you later this week with a bonus newsletter on what to wear to work!
Requisite disclaimer here: If you click on a link, I may get a small commission which helps support this newsletter. Also, sharing is greatly appreciated!
The way I am literally shopping for one right now 😭 thank you