The choice between a one piece vs bikini is challenging since there’s plenty to love about both swimsuit styles. The unique cut and features of each make both equally beautiful, which leaves the choice individually based on personal style and what you’re in the mood for when shopping for your next swimsuit. 

Of course, there’s always room for a sexy designer bikini and one piece swimsuit in your wardrobe, but if you have to pick, we’ve created a guide that will help you decide between the two. In the fashion battle between a bikini and one piece, which will win this swimsuit season?

What We Love about a One Piece Swimsuit

One of the key differences between a one piece vs bikini option is the amount of material coverage, particularly around the midsection. Since a bikini is made up of two separate pieces, there’s typically more skin shown. However, there are various designs that offer different cuts on the bottom and back that change up the traditional idea of what a one piece swimsuit has to offer like monokinis for example.

Offers Secure Coverage

A pro of a one piece swimsuit vs. bikini coverage is that it allows you to feel freer to participate in beach and water activities without fear of losing a swimsuit bottom or top or having a wardrobe malfunction. While bikini designs are also appropriate for adventures on the beach, a one piece swimsuit helps people feel more secure and confident if they plan on getting in on the action. 

Doubles as a Bodysuit

Another point in favor of the one piece is that it can pull double duty as a bodysuit when paired with a maxi skirt, billowy shorts, or a sarong for an effortless warm-weather look. A one piece bathing suit not only give you a little extra coverage, but it can be a perfect suit to wear to a pool party underneath a ruffle or lace skirt. You can easily transition from the water to time on the shore and create outfits based around your one piece selections. Keep it casual with a pair of designer flip flops and fashionable tote, and you’re good to go. 

Our Favorite One Piece Swimsuits

Modern one piece swimsuit designs range from the standard tank to strapless versions and one shoulder options to trendy cutout styles, which offer a hybrid between a one piece and bikini option. They come in an endless array of colors and designs to choose from to make the one piece swimsuit feel tailormade for you. We’ve highlighted a few favorites that show the versatility of a one-piece swimsuit vs. bikini option. 

Arena Rosie One Piece

Sweet, feminine specks of blush, teal, and dark grey set against a bright white background embraces the breezy, laid-back vibes of a perfect summer day. The one piece cut with thin vertical straps has a scoop neckline but an ultra low back and flattering Brazilian cut to keep the look flirty and fun. Fans of neutral hues will like the variety of subtle colors that define the pretty Arena Rosie One Piece’s look.

Jasper Iris One Piece

The vibrant jade hue of the Jasper Iris One Piece offers a sophisticated appeal. The sheen of the fabric, one shoulder strap, and side cutouts add style elements that elevate this swimsuit from your average one piece. It’s a trendy take on a staple that’s suitable for your next tropical vacation since the color will mimic your lush surroundings. Let this gorgeous green become a new go-to in your closet.

Black Firenze Lais One Piece

Speaking of elevating the average, the Black Firenze Lais One Piece is anything but ordinary. The timeless allure of a black swimsuit balances out this modern one piece’s chic and sexy nature. With side cutouts and a Brazilian bottom, this stunning selection redefines the simple black one piece swimsuit. Plus, the stretchy, no-wrinkle fabric makes it ideal for packing up for a day at the pool or sunbathing on the beach. This is one of our favorite one piece swimsuits for different body types.

Margot Rachel One Piece

For a black swimsuit option that plays up a floral print and more coverage than the Black Firenze Lais design, the Margot Rachel One Piece is a stunning choice. White and copper-colored florals are splashed against a black and white ivory background for a fresh update using neutral colors. A demure midsection cutout, high clean back, and full coverage bottom provide comfort with a retro chic edge. 

Scarlet Knot One Piece

A classy animal print bikini like the Scarlet Knot One Piece design is versatile enough to wear to the beach as well as underneath a billowy pair of black pants or floaty maxi skirt as a bodysuit. The deep v halter style and knot detailing are unique features that complement the distinctive print’s appeal. A pleated middle detail creates a slimming silhouette for a flattering fit wherever and however you decide to wear it.

What We Love about a Bikini

What are the factors that would make someone choose a bikini vs. one piece? Having separates to mix-and-match makes a difference when creating a swimsuit collection. It gives you more options when you have a variety of solid bikini colors and prints to choose from. With a bikini, you can mix and match your top and bottoms to create your perfect swimsuit. This is also perfect for those who prefer bikinis like to highlight the torso and are comfortable showing more skin than what the typical one piece offers. 

Mix and Match Your Outfit.

They also work to make an insta-outfit when paired with a sarong or chic beach cover up. You can head directly from a day by the pool or lounging on the sand to a casual dinner or a boardwalk stroll in no time. As with a one piece, there’s a broad offering of bikini designs, ranging from classic to trendy and fuller coverage to barely-there tops and bottoms. It all depends on your personal style and how you want to play up your curves.

Variety of Bikini Styles to Choose From

Bikini tops range from a standard triangle bikini shape to a strapless bandeau option to pair with high-waist, low-rise, Brazilian, or full coverage bottoms. It seems that when it comes to bikinis vs. one piece swimsuits, the option of swapping out different tops and bottoms gives this style a slight edge. Drawing from some of our most popular styles, we’ll let you decide for yourself. 

Pink Scales Margot Bikini

Go for a soft, pretty look with the Pink Scales Margot Bikini. The rich pink hue and ultra-soft fabric are a winning combination for this beautiful bikini. The fine-scale details and slightly ruffled edges are a distinctive, feminine touch that’s simply sweet. Choose from a Brazilian bottom or full coverage of this fully lined swimsuit based on what the occasion calls for and what you’re most comfortable wearing. 

Anik Ripple Bikini

Reimagine neutral tones with the Anik Ripple Bikini. The unique black and beige design is likely to become your new go-to due to its versatility. Keep the top and bottom together or swap in a pair of black bottoms to create another look. The low-rise fit, tie-side bottom, and delicate scalloped edge are flirty details that balance the edgier appeal of the scale texture and gold-dipped caps. 

Aqua Ada Erin Bikini

Embrace the feeling of laid-back cool when wearing the Aqua Ada Erin Bikini. The soft turquoise shade mimics tropical waters, making it an ideal option for your next exotic getaway. The stylish brass bead detailing on the top and at the hips amplifies this dreamy design’s overall appeal. Adjustable straps made with handmade rope details create unique comfort, in addition to the option of a full, Brazilian cut, or cheeky bikini bottoms for the bottom.

Sprite Scales Button Bikini

Wow with color with the lime green Sprite Scales Button Bikini. The bandeau top and Brazilian cut bottom are ideal for a day at the beach or strolling the shores of your favorite tropical destination. The fine-scale detailing of the ultra-soft fabric makes this as comfortable as it is stylish, universally flattering on everyone. Brighten up your wardrobe with this vibrant color and feel good in this flirty look. 

Paraty Ocean Square Bandeau Bikini

For a sophisticated mix of a classic color combination and alluring cut, the Paraty Ocean Square Bandeau Bikini is an optimal choice. The fascinating blend of ocean blue, white, and deep rust colors patterned in thick, horizontal lines make this bikini ready-made for the beach. Plus, the relaxed fit of the bandeau top and full coverage bottom with sides that can be widened for comfort are details that make a difference when choosing between a one piece or bikini.

Making Your Next Swimsuit Selection

With the endless swimsuit options available, it’s tough to say if there’s a clear winner when it comes to the battle between a one piece vs. bikini. There are benefits to both individual preferences affecting the final choice. For fuller coverage, the one piece is likely the go-to choice, but when you’re casually hanging out poolside or on the beach, a bikini is an ultimate way to go. 

However, just when you think you’ve chosen between the two, there’s a new trending color, one-of-kind design, or an update on a classic to choose from in both swimsuit styles every season. Narrowing down the options can touch, but variety is what makes swimwear fashion fun.