Swimsuit evening dress: unstoppable sexy

Lead: This summer, the biggest fashion trend might not just be dresses. Swimsuit sets are stepping into the spotlight as stylish and comfortable alternatives that can easily transition from beach to evening wear. These outfits are not only affordable but also compact, making them perfect for travel and saving space in your suitcase.

Bec & Bridge

This season’s standout style is a single-shoulder silhouette with metal plate embellishments and vibrant jewelry tones. These details allow swimsuit sets to effortlessly shift from casual to glamorous, blending the elegance of evening wear with the ease of everyday fashion.

“Many spring and summer trends have made their way into swimwear—think tribal prints, bold patterns, and animal motifs. The swimwear is naturally tailored, decorated with beads, pleats, and delicate stitching. Flower prints are especially popular this season, both in clothing and beachwear,” said Colin Sherlin, fashion director at Saks Fifth Avenue in New York. “Designers are getting more complex, and it seems that swimsuit designers are influenced by ready-to-wear collections. Brands like Gucci and Pucci are now creating beachwear too.”

Carmen Marc Valvo

Carmen Marc Valvo, known for evening gowns, has expanded into swimwear design. He sees it as a natural progression. “Unlike sportswear, which is more functional, evening wear is very revealing, and swimwear is even more so. They share similar techniques like draping and shaping. I can use materials like chiffon-like knits on swimsuits to create elegant designs.”

He also applies these techniques to his evening gowns. “The Japanese-style wide belt slimlines the waist, the topless jacket enhances the neck curve, and pleating adds a subtle touch to the body.”

A customer request led him into the swimwear world. After an event in Palm Beach, he sold some tight-fitting jumpsuits with a nylon-Leica texture. “Most women don’t have many occasions for evening wear, but they all enjoy sunbathing. This design satisfies both needs,” he explained.

Karla Spetic

According to Sasling’s Sherin, swimwear sets make up at least half of many brands’ product lines. “This is a key commercial aspect of beachwear due to its versatility and multiple styling options.”

In terms of sizing, swimsuit sets offer more flexibility. Swimwear Anywhere, a design company, collaborates with brands like Valvo, Marc Jacobs, and DKNY. Founder Rosemary de Rolando said, “A swimsuit suit fits many different body types, making it a practical choice for a wide range of women.”

Therese Rawsthorne

Many summer swimwear sets were inspired by 2010 T-shirts, such as Michael Kors’ chain belts and simple plastic trims, or Marc Jacobs’ pleated designs.

However, you won’t spend the same amount on a swimsuit as you would on a T-shirt. For example, Valvo’s dresses typically cost between $500 and $1,000, while a swimwear dress might be around $150.

“Expensive, fancy Turkish gowns with flashy decorations can go for around $600 and are ideal for cocktail events,” said Karen Ray, creative director at Satya Rai. “They’re a great alternative to traditional evening wear.”

Arnsdorf

“When the draping and coverage are done right, the silhouette is undeniably sexy and flattering,” she said. “But there are also some terrible Turkish gowns—what I call ‘mumu gowns,’ originally from Hawaii.”

Ray wore her own satin-print Turkish tunic in Manhattan. “I started this line because I travel often. I wanted clothes that could be worn without wrinkles.”

Swimsuit suits are designed to be non-transparent and not overly form-fitting, usually covering the bust. “You should buy them like a dress—find the right fit and try them on,” she advised.

Accessories matter too, she added. Wooden or metallic bracelets, sunglasses, bright handbags, and flat flip-flops complete the look.

“These pieces are meant to be worn head-to-toe. Our customers love creating new looks around swimwear and wearing them all day. You don’t need anything else. Whether it’s a vacation, the beach, lunch, cocktails, or dinner, a swimsuit suit works perfectly.”

Valvo is unsure if people will actually wear these outfits for swimming or surfing. “Deep V-necks or backless styles are better suited for poolside or beach huts,” he explained. “On a cruise ship, they look great. I don’t think you’d wear them for actual water activities.”