The Minimalist’s Guide to Simple, Chic Swimwear

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In keeping with the rest of our wardrobe, swimwear trends come and go. Each summer, you’ll find embellished swimsuits that make for some interesting tan lines, but you can’t go wrong with a minimalist swimwear approach. As temperatures begin to rise, we’re drawn to timeless and minimal swimsuits, rather than statement styles that eventually feel outdated or trendy. When shopping for any wardrobe essential (swimsuits included!), it’s important to find a style you’ll continue to love for seasons to come.

Vogue’s Guide to Minimalist Swimwear

• The Graphic Element: Massimo Dutti Contrast swimsuit, $120
• The Balconette Set: Araks Ovsanna bikini top and Ezra hipster, $355
• The Touch of Blue: Matteau Nineties recycled swimsuit, $318
• The Bright White: Eres Les Essentiels Asia paneled swimsuit, $470
• The Deep-V One-Piece: J.Crew Lana One-Piece, $69.50
• The Pop of Red: Tropic of C Equator bikini top and Praia bikini bottom, $200

There are plenty of elegant and unfussy swim silhouettes that don’t feel basic. A sophisticated one-piece with modern details, like barely-there straps or a deep-V silhouette, becomes as much of a classic as the perfect T-shirt. For those who wish to show a bit more skin, never underestimate the power of the tried-and-true triangle bikini.

No matter the exact style, minimalist swimwear draws its appeal from subdued color palettes, clean and seamless cuts, and subtly textured fabrics like fine ribbing and soft ruching. Apart from a clean aesthetic, a simple suit makes a solid foundation for any vacation outfit—and can be mixed in with those not-so-minimalist beach pieces such as statement kaftan or cover-up. What’s more, you can wear one, say, in lieu of a bodysuit or bra top, when on vacation or around town.

Below, an edit of chic swimsuit options to satisfy your inner minimalist.

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Solid Striped

The Annie one-piece swimsuit

$198

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE

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St. Agni

balconette bikini top + bottom

$210

FWRD