There’s a good reason we’ve got black one-piece swimsuits on the brain RN, despite it being early February and all. After what felt like the longest month of all time (good riddance, January), we’re already thinking about warmer weather and vacation destinations with the official countdown to spring break now underway. Our bodies might still be enduring the dread of winter (thank you, puffer coats and fleece vests), but our minds are already on a sandy beach somewhere curing these seasonal blues. So as we plan out the essential bathing suit shopping required to address our winter-induced vitamin D deficiencies, a little black swimsuit is right at the top of the list.
Much like the reliable little black dress, this bathing suit style will be your go-to swimwear essential. It’s simple, flattering, and easy to wear. To help you make the best choice without the nightmare of swimsuit shopping IRL, we’ve scoured the internet using the consumer comment section as a guide. Expect nothing less than the top-vetted suggestions from your fellow internauts as you prepare for your next warm-weather getaway or stock up for swimsuit season.
Welcome to Hype Machine, our hit-list of the top reviewed products across the web — according to a crowd of die-hard shoppers. Call this your 4-star & up only club, with entry granted by our devoted-to-the-goods shop editors.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Aerie Wrap One-Piece Swimsuit
The Wraparound Look
Think classic DVF, but for swimwear. Aerie’s take on the wrap dress trend for bathing suits looks good, feels good, and comes with removable pads so you can wear it exactly as desired.
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 144 reviews on Aerie.com
What They’re Saying: “This suit is perfect for the person looking to have the look of a 2 piece but coverage of a full suit. I’m normally a medium. 34DD top. This can be tightened to support or loosened. Highly recommend.” — Bels, Aerie reviewer
Aerie Wrap One Piece Swimsuit, $, available at American Eagle Outfitters
Summersalt The Sidestroke
The Compliment Magnet
You can’t go through the pages upon pages of glowing reviews for this one-shoulder number without seeing the word “compliment” mentioned over and over again. Not only does the sleek style attract positive attention, it also offers an effortless fit that’s easy to move around in.
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 841 reviews on Summersalt.com
What They’re Saying: “Fits amazing, great quality and looks so good! Wore it for a girls trip in Hawaii and I had strangers stop me to tell me how they had seen the suit online and thought it looked amazing on me!” — Disha M., Summersalt reviewer
Summersalt The Sidestroke, $, available at Summersalt
Seafolly Active One-Piece Swimsuit
The Extra Protection
According to a number of pleased Anthropologie shoppers, one of the best things about this swimsuit is that it protects your shoulders and chest from the sun. It’s made from a solid, thick material that fits well and flatters the body.
The Hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars; 14 reviews on Anthropologie.com
What They’re Saying: “This suit has it all. It’s actually COMFORTABLE and flattering. Good bum coverage and I especially love the fact that it protects your shoulders from the sun. Perfect choice for hanging out in the ocean and watching the manatees swim by…” — LMLat9000, Anthropologie reviewer
Seafolly Anthropologie Active One-Piece Swimsuit, $, available at Anthropologie
Torrid Wireless Black Lattice One-Piece
The Deep V
Customers love the way this suit hugs their curves thanks to its Slim Fix mesh lining made to contour your body. Plus, the multiway straps can be adjusted for the perfect fit so you’ll really feel as good as you look.
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 11 reviews on Torrid.com
What They’re Saying: “Comfortable and sturdy. It creates a nice silhouette, especially at waistline.” — Lagwitt, Torrid reviewer
Torrid Curve Wireless Deep-V One-Piece Swimsuit, $, available at Torrid
Miracle Suit Illusionist Crossover One-Piece Swimsuit
The Silhouette Shaper
With its overlapping mesh panels, this one-piece accentuates your natural shape without any uncomfortable panels or wires. Its exclusive Miratex® fabric is designed to firm, hold and form your frame without being suffocating.
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 31 reviews on Nordstrom.com
What They’re Saying: “Super flattering suit! I wanted something that would help me feel confident this summer at the lake after having twins this winter and this suit delivered while still feeling a little sexy. I’m 5’8’’ [and] 135 lbs and the medium fits great.” — SNA5, Nordstrom reviewer
Miraclesuit Illusionist Crossover One-Piece Swimsuit, $, available at Nordstrom
Trina Turk Studio Solid Bandeau One-Piece
The Off-The-Shoulder Style
Thanks to its sweet ruffled trim detail, this suit accents the front neckline in a subtle and stylish way. Plus, you have the option to remove its contour pads depending on the shape and support that suits you best.
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 13 reviews on Zappos.com
What They’re Saying: “Well made and great fit! It also looked like a body suit under shorts which was great to go from a boat to restaurant. People thought it was a top!” — Anonymous, Zappos reviewer
Trina Turk Bandeau One-Piece, $, available at Zappos
Sunn Lab Swim Strappy Back One Piece
The Sexy Back
The strap-happy back of this design may look complicated, but it’s actually very easy to wear. The suit has soft removable cups and moderate coverage so there’s no need for adjustments — just suit up and go!
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 84 reviews on Target.com
What They’re Saying: “This bathing suit is not only beautiful, it fits perfectly. Also, very easy to slip in and out of even when wet. I have gotten so many compliments!” — Mariah, Target reviewer
Sunn Lab Swim Strappy Back One Piece Swimsuit, $, available at Target.com
Dixperfect One Piece Swimsuit
The High-Cut Style
It’s no coincidence that this ’90s-inspired, scoop-neck style had its own viral moment on Amazon. Its exaggerated arm and leg openings add a touch of glam while the wide straps and durable lining keep you secure.
The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars; 191 reviews on Amazon.com
What They’re Saying: “Bae watch! This swimsuit is totally retro and very well constructed. It holds you in and fits true to size. I have thick thighs so a little nervous about how high cut it is, but will make it work!” — NJ, Amazon reviewer
Dixperfect 90s Trend One Piece Swimsuit, $, available at Amazon
Madewell Second Wave Crisscross One-Piece Swimsuit
The Eco-Friendly Option
The fabric of this comfortable crisscross style was made using recycled plastic, allowing you to make a more conscious choice about your next swimsuit purchase. The suit is available in a wide range of styles (from XXS to 3X) and features a built-in shelf bra.
The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars; 13 reviews on Madewell.com
What They’re Saying: “I have been searching for two years for the perfect, classic cut swimsuit in my size. I wear between a 20 and 22 and typically wear a 3x at Madewell. I ordered this in a 3x and it fits perfect! The cut is great, it is simple and classic and doesn’t have a bunch of weird padding or extreme unnecessary compression for ‘slimming.'” — Tori95, Madewell reviewer
Madewell Second Wave Crisscross One-Piece Swimsuit, $, available at Madewell
Tempt Me High Neck One Piece Swimsuit
The Hidden Gem
You know you’ve found a winner when your swimsuit manages to be both sexy and supportive. The high-neck design of this Amazon find features a padded push-up bra and neck hook closure for shaping and support while its see-through mesh style and plunging back design add a flirty touch.
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 4,681 reviews on Amazon.com
What They’re Saying: “I ordered this hesitantly. I hate buying swim suits online. This was a great surprise! It looks great on and is super comfortable… This from someone who tries on 20 suits a year, has a mini break down, then settles on one. Lol. I am 5’4″ with [an athletic, curvy build], so it’s hard finding things that are flattering.” — ANRamsey, Amazon reviewer
Tempt Me One Piece Mesh Swimsuit, $, available at Amazon
This sleek monokini proves that your bathing suit can be sexy and practical all at the same time. While it features a plunging neckline and open back, the adjustable neck and lace-up straps allow for optimal support and a comfortable fit.
The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars and 64 reviews on Target
What They’re Saying: “By far the best bathing suit I’ve ever purchased. Having larger breasts, I was skeptical of the low cut, but the way it’s tied in the back definitely keeps them in place.” – kp, Target review
Sunn Lab Swim Women’s Double Halter Strappy Back One Piece Swimsuit, $, available at Target.com
The simple silhouette of this one-piece is designed to flatter your figure. There’s lots to love about the ample shirring at the waist for a super-flattering fabrication that moves with you.
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 12 reviews on Nordstrom
What They’re Saying: “Great suit.. Shapes you without binding you.. Wish it was offered in more colors.” – Corbin3, Nordstrom review
La Blanca One-Piece Swimsuit, $, available at Nordstrom
For a look that’s equal parts elegant and fun, tease a bit of extra skin with a this swimsuit’s sneaky little cutout just below the chest. Bonus points for the adjustable straps.
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars and 6 reviews on Loft
What They’re Saying: “I’m not usually for a one-piece but this one caught my eye for its simplicity. Well, let me just say I’m pleasantly surprised by how well it fits and how flattering it is. The top has just enough padding and the bow can be cinched to lift the bust just a bit.” – Faye75, Loft review
LOFT Beach Bow Cutout One Piece Swimsuit, $, available at LOFT
Nothing is sweeter than a sweetheart neckline. And although this flattering bandeau-style suit already has reinforced side boning, there’s also a detachable halter strap for the moments where you want a little extra bust support.
The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars and 24 reviews on Zappos
What They’re Saying: “Felt like a goddess in this! Gorgeous suit!” – Anonymous Zappos customer
La Blanca Bandeau One-Piece, $, available at Zappos
Norma Kamali Marissa One-Piece
The High-Cut Style
You won’t just walk in this swimsuit — you’ll strut. Because the style is dramatically high cut above the waist, it immediately elongates your legs.
The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars; 38 reviews on Revolve.com
What They’re Saying: “This item is just amazing, you feel like a star!” — Silvia, Revolve reviewer
Norma Kamali One Piece In Black, $, available at Revolve
While there’s still a high cut on the leg of this suit, the stretchy material also dips low with a dropped armhole and deep neckline. Designed for the cheekiest of beachgoers, this option has got just the right amount of scoop. Plus, it’s more affordable at less than $40.
The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars and 102 reviews on American Eagle
What They’re Saying: “I think this is a timeless bathing suit that any body shape can wear and feel comfortable and sexy at the same time! I love it. It’s the best suit I’ve ever bought! Definitely worth it!” – Victoria, Aerie review
Aerie Super Scoop One Piece Swimsuit, $, available at Aerie
Hilor One Shoulder Asymmetric Ruffle Monokini
The Affordable Option
If you’re a fan of the one-shoulder top, why not try out the trend for your swimwear? The stylish asymmetric neckline of this under-$30 option looks sophisticated (read: expensive) while the ruffled trim adds a flirty touch.
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars; 186 reviews on Amazon.com
What They’re Saying: “This is so cute. I’m actually kind of excited to wear a swimsuit, which is not something I normally say. It’s so hard to find a swimsuit that supports and covers my chest but is still stylish, but this does just that!” – Meagan, Amazon reviewer
Hilor One Shoulder Asymmetric Ruffle Monokini, $, available at Amazon
Swimsuits For All Cut-Out Underwire One-Piece Swimsuit
The Suit With Surprising Support
Ok, you’ll likely get weird tan lines from this one but it’s totally worth it. The criss-cross side detailing is super sexy, and the hidden underwire bra adds secret support for all kinds of beachside adventures.
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 411 reviews on Swimsuitsforall.com
What They’re Saying: “This swimsuit is the real deal. It just arrived and I couldn’t wait to try it on. Hands down the best swimsuit I have ever bought! Thank you for making my curves look awesome! I can’t wait to wear it!” – DoreneD, Swimsuits For All reviewer
Ashley Graham x Swimsuits For All Black Cut Out Underwire One Piece Swimsuit, $, available at swimsuitsforall
The halter neckline and supportive body of this monokini is just what you need if you want something classic and comfortable. Also, the ruched detailing distracts from the stomach region for those of us who are a bit self-conscious and want the fabric camouflage.
The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars and 36 reviews on ModCloth
What They’re Saying: “Really great quality suit. The ruching and cut makes it comfortable and flattering. I love the halter. I’m over 60 and a bit squarish in build, but I like that it makes me look curvier than I am.” – Angela, ModCloth review
Kenneth Cole One-Piece Swimsuit In Black, $, available at ModCloth
Kenneth Cole One-Piece Swimsuit in Black, $, available at ModCloth
TYR Solid Maxfit Swimsuit
The Athletic Option
If you’re an active swimmer and need a little black swimsuit that can keep up, consider this athletic option featuring secure straps and a classic cut. The long-lasting, chlorine-resistant material makes this a stylishly durable choice.
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 209 reviews on Swimoutlet.com
What They’re Saying: “I like this suit a lot. It has great support and doesn’t ride up in the back or front. I swim lots of laps most days, so it has stood the test of my swim workouts!” – Ellen D., Swim Outlet reviewer
TYR Solid Maxfit Swimsuit, $, available at Swim Outlet
Hate dealing with bathing suits that are always riding up in the back? Keep everything in place with a retro, full-coverage swimsuit like this little number offering ruched detailing and a boy-short bottom fit.
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 107 reviews on Anthropologie
What They’re Saying: I avoided swimming in public until I discovered this suit! It’s so flattering! The cut is comfortable, and I get compliments every time I wear it.” – ArcticAnthro, Anthropologie review
Seafolly Boyleg One-Piece Swimsuit, $, available at Anthropologie
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