Chances are, you're just about out of summer outfit ideas now. Right? Fear not, though - I've got a solution for you. Full disclosure, it involves thinking a little outside the box. Presenting: swimwear as outerwear. Hear me out.
If you haven't considered incorporating swimwear into your warm weather wardrobe, maybe now is a perfect time. Now, I'd go so far as to say that incorporating swimwear into your outfits is the hack that keeps on giving. Not only are you getting more wear out of your current wardrobe (which we love to see), you're also giving yourself the opportunity to get extra creative with your 'fits (another 'yes' from us). Besides, who doesn't want a look that can take you from your local lido to dinner without changing your clothes?
Now, if you're new to this styling trick game, wearing your bikini as a top might feel somewhat illegal when you aren't on holiday. But with a few styling tips, I'll show you how your swimwear can transform into a go-to fashion piece.
If you don't believe me, scroll down, it might just give you some inspiration.
1. Layer under a playsuit
The days of worrying about the plunge on your favourite piece of clothing are over. With this playsuit, I wanted to create additional drama. This set offers another dimension to the outfit due to the colour and style, but most importantly keeps me feeling cool. Could this look have been achieved with a similarly styled bodysuit? Possibly. But I just removed the need for two extra layers - a bra and a tank top/bodysuit - by wearing a supportive and stylish swimsuit. Sounds like a win to me!
Lucy and Yak, £56 Riley Jumpsuit: ORGANIC COTTON - Joyflora-earth
2. Team with a co-ord
As a firm lover of co-ord sets, nothing brings me joy like a two-piece that fits comfortably and can be worn in multiple ways. Arguably, adding a swimsuit isn't really necessary, but for those of you who want to add a little extra *vibezz*, a bikini top like this one from Very (£30) does exactly that. Whether you're headed to a picnic, having a beach day or out exploring the town, this outfit will keep you feeling light, breezy and undeniably stylish.
3. Pair with mesh staples
When it comes to warm weather dressing, mesh is arguably the most breathable fabric. But for many, the question of 'what do I wear underneath?' arises. Unless you are as icon like Rihanna, of course. So, this season, I'm styling my favourite swimwear underneath my mesh pieces, and, if your top or dress is as patterned and colourful as this piece from River Island (£38), your swimwear will fit in perfectly.
ASOS Design, £32 ASOS DESIGN Curve mirror satin rib adjustable leg halter swimsuit in bright pink
Kai Collective, £180 Hera Ruched Long Sleeve Maxi Mesh Dress Orange
Peek & Beau, £24 Peek & Beau Curve Exclusive scallop plunge long line bikini top in black
4. Add to your going-out 'fit
This outfit has graced Barbados, Ibiza and Malta in the last year, so why shouldn't it be worn in London? What I find interesting about the clothes we often wear on holiday is that they are often the clothes neglect when home. While I may not wear this to go shopping on Oxford Street, there's no harm in wearing this outfit to a friend's garden party. So, get those gorgeous cover-ups out and stop questioning whether it's too much for England.
Reclaimed Vintage, £19.99 Reclaimed Vintage inspired Plus Underwired bikini top in Retro Postcard Print - MULTI
Lauren Nicole Coppin Campbell is the Contributing Curve Editor of Cosmopolitan UK. The former curve model and digital content creator has worked in the fashion industry, specialising in plus-size fashion content, for six years. Known for her excellent eye for style, captivating imagery and witty sense of humour to match, Lauren Nicole continues to inspire women to live boldly through their clothes.
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