Bathing Suits As Bodysuits
The first bodysuit I acquired was actually a bathing suit by Cover. Bright pink and sleeveless, with a high neck, it’s perfect underneath sheer skirts and with denim cutoffs. I use it to protect my skin under itchy sweaters and for layering under blazers. The nonstop usefulness of this "swimsuit" is what inspired me to start looking for more, and I landed on a long-sleeved houndstooth piece (also by Cover), which offers even more coverage, plus a great print. Zimmermann is another swim label with designs that shouldn’t be relegated to the beach. Theirs have sheer paneling and bustier shapes that lend pin-up appeal. Bonus: If you’re wearing a bathing suit as a bodysuit, you’re always ready for an impromptu pool party.
Lingerie As Bodysuits
Lingerie brands like Wolford and Cosabella make magic with ladylike lace styles that are too good to be kept private. In that first photo, my Cosabella black-lace bodysuit (with a high neckline and short ruffle sleeves) makes a great going-out look with the help of leather shorts. Cosabella has been making bodysuits since the ‘80s, and the jersey paneling and thoughtfully placed lace on this one illustrate decades of perfection.
Ready-To-Wear Bodysuits
Ready-to-wear favorites from Free People and By Malene Birger have heeded my lobbying for still more bodysuits, and they’ve integrated the arguably old-school style into current collections. Fashion nerds and fit obsessives should look no further than Maison Martin Margiela, which has minimalist options cut from a technical jersey fabric. My white tank top bodysuit with organza piping by Wolford is more proof that lingerie works as clothes. And, paired under an oversized gray sweater, it keeps me cozy for fall, allows me to creatively show a little skin, and doesn’t add any bulk. (Beat that, button-ups.)