The Low-Back Swimsuit Is The Perfect Trend For Showing Some Summer Skin
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No biggie if you're not feeling that itsy-bitsy, teensy-weensy, yellow polka-dot bikini. The low-back one-piece is here to bridge the gap — and in a very stylish way, at that.
As much as we love a good bikini, there's certainly something to be said for the elegance of a backless swimsuit. It was flamboyant designer Elsa Schiaparelli who first patented the style back in the 1930s. At the time, tanning had become a favorite pastime for wealthy travelers, so a backless option that helped prevent pesky tan lines became an immediate fave for said elites. It's not all that surprising, then, that even as time passed, there continues to be a glamor associated with the suit. Granted, these days, there's no need to fork out a small fortune for a designer piece, and anyone can rock the style. Plus, on top of being a great way to keep that back tan as even as possible, showing a little more skin in the back means fuller coverage in front. Feeling the pangs of swimsuit anxiety? This swimsuit is your bestie.
There are a few things to keep in consideration when picking a backless one-piece, though. Just how backless is backless? How low can you go without nixing necessary support? Does torso length make a difference? In essence, how can you make this trend your own? Let's take a dive.
Finding your most supportive fit
There's no denying the aesthetic appeal of a backless swimsuit. However, functionality is another story — and depending on your bust size, you may need to think about the support your suit of choice offers.
Speaking to Marie Claire, SHAN swimwear founder, Chantal Levesque pointed out, "The lower the cut is in the back, the less support it gives in front." So, more coverage in front is a good bet — but that's not to say foregoing a V-neck style altogether. As suggested by the designer, either opt for a slightly higher back, pick a suit with back ties that allow you to customize your support, or look for something with a well-fitting, built-in bra. Another option is considering the strap size. Spaghetti straps might not be supportive enough, but a thicker strap (think: a polished, square neckline) is a good bet.
As for ladies with a smaller bust, it's easier to feel comfortable in a lower back spaghetti strap style, à la Eisha C. That said, do keep in mind that it still won't accommodate every activity. As Oneone Swim's Valentina Suescun told Marie Claire, water sports are a risky business in one of these suits, regardless of cup size. Again, reach for that thicker strap and built-in bra ... or use the suit as Elsa Schiaparelli intended.
Keep your torso in mind
The beauty of a bikini is that torso size doesn't necessarily factor in the way it fits. Sure, you may want to play around with proportions to highlight certain features, or feel more comfortable in one style than another, but once the top or bottom fits, that's about it. One-pieces, not so much. Backless or not, a full swimsuit means taking into account torso length to avoid too tight a fit — and some serious indentations.
Luckily for those with a longer torso, there are some brands that offer specially designed, long torso-friendly one-pieces, like Berlook and American Eagle's Aerie. On top of that, there are also some ways to work with suits found outside of the tall section. Going for a larger size can help, depending on the rest of your measurements. Or, as Jolyn's Charlotte Ruffner told Byrdie, pick something that allows for strap adjustments, like ties or slider adjusters. "Having the ability to lengthen straps will tailor the one-piece to your body," she explained.
Just be warned: Going for a larger fit or relying on adjuster options can have an impact on support, so make sure the swimsuit feels like a second skin before hitting the beach.
A style for the subtle and daring alike
On top of exuding old-school glamor, it's worth mentioning once again that one of the highlights of a backless one-piece is its ability to provide more coverage than the average bikini without nixing any skin-showing.
Don't be fooled, though. While a low back can be subtle, there are also more daring takes on this style for those who prefer the less-is-more route. From almost completely backless offerings, like Norma Kamali's aptly named Super Low Back Mio, to pieces that offer a deep V-neck in addition to a low back, like Lovewave's Xena one-piece (available at Revolve), there are plenty of options. Plus, there are also slightly more covered-up variations. South Beach Curve's halter-neck backless one-piece (find it at Asos) comes with a chic cut-out for a look that balances coverage, skin, fun, and glamor all in one.
Whether you're reaching for a low-back one-piece for more coverage, less coverage, or just an update to your swimwear collection this summer, the bottom line is: Go for it. As long as you're mindful of the support and stretch you need to feel as comfortable as possible, this is one style anyone can rock with confidence.