Skip to content
FREE SHIPPING ON ORDERS OVER $99. SHOP NOW

One Piece Suits

What is a One Piece Bathing Suit Called? Exploring the Timeless Elegance of One-Piece Swimwear

by Outlet Bikini 12 Jul 2025

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. The Many Names of One-Piece Bathing Suits
  3. A Brief History of the One-Piece Bathing Suit
  4. Styles of One-Piece Bathing Suits
  5. Choosing the Right One-Piece Bathing Suit
  6. The Impact of One-Piece Bathing Suits on Women's Fashion
  7. Conclusion

Introduction

Did you know that the one-piece bathing suit has a history that dates back over a century? This iconic swimwear piece has not only evolved in design but also in societal acceptance, becoming a symbol of confidence and empowerment for women around the world. As we step into the summer season, the question arises: what is a one-piece bathing suit called, and what makes it so special?

At Outlet Bikini, we believe that every woman deserves to feel stunning and confident, both on and off the beach. Our journey began with a passion for celebrating every woman's body, and we are dedicated to making high-fashion swimwear accessible to all. In this blog post, we will explore the various names and styles of one-piece bathing suits, their historical significance, and how they cater to different body types and fashion preferences. By the end, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of this timeless swimwear staple and perhaps even find the perfect one-piece from our curated collections.

Throughout this article, we will delve into the different styles of one-piece swimsuits, their unique features, and how to choose the right one for your personal style. We’ll also discuss the evolution of swimwear and its impact on women's fashion. So, whether you're planning a beach getaway or simply looking to refresh your swimwear collection, keep reading as we uncover the world of one-piece bathing suits.

The Many Names of One-Piece Bathing Suits

When it comes to swimwear, terminology can be a bit confusing. A one-piece bathing suit is often referred to by several names, each highlighting different design elements or styles. Here are some common names you might encounter:

1. Maillot

One of the most recognized terms for a one-piece bathing suit is the maillot. Originating from the French word for "shirt," this term has been in use since the 1920s, describing a tight-fitting swimsuit made of stretchable jersey fabric. While the term "maillot" may not be as widely used today, it is still prevalent in fashion circles, especially when discussing high-end swimwear.

2. Tank Suit

Another popular name for a one-piece swimsuit is the tank suit. This term refers to the tank-style design that features broad shoulder straps, similar to a tank top. Tank suits are known for their comfort and support, making them a favorite among women of all ages.

3. Monokini

The term monokini has evolved over the years. Originally used to describe a one-piece bathing suit that exposed the breasts, today's monokini typically refers to a suit with cutouts on the sides or front. This daring design has gained popularity for those seeking a bold and fashionable look.

4. Full Piece Bathing Suit

The phrase full piece bathing suit is often used interchangeably with one-piece swimsuit. This term emphasizes the complete design, as opposed to two-piece options like bikinis. Full piece suits are ideal for women looking for more coverage while still maintaining a stylish appearance.

5. Swimwear

Finally, it's essential to remember that a one-piece bathing suit is simply a type of swimwear. This broader category includes various styles, designs, and fabrics, making it a versatile choice for any water-related activity.

A Brief History of the One-Piece Bathing Suit

Understanding the evolution of the one-piece bathing suit provides valuable insight into its significance in women's fashion. Here's a brief overview of its historical journey:

Early 20th Century

The modern one-piece swimsuit made its debut in the early 1900s, largely popularized by Australian swimmer Annette Kellerman. In 1907, Kellerman was arrested for indecent exposure while wearing a swimsuit that showed her arms and legs, a bold move for the time. Her arrest sparked public outrage and brought attention to swimwear reform, leading to a greater acceptance of the one-piece style.

1920s and 1930s

By the 1920s, the one-piece bathing suit had become a staple for women’s swimwear. The Kellerman swimsuit, as it was often called, was celebrated for its flattering fit and was even worn in competitive swimming events, including the 1912 Olympics, where women first competed. As women began to embrace sunbathing, swimsuit designs shifted from purely functional to more decorative styles.

Mid-20th Century to Present

The rise of the bikini in the 1960s challenged the dominance of the one-piece bathing suit. However, the one-piece has maintained its place in swimwear fashion, continually evolving to meet modern style trends. Today, one-piece swimsuits come in various designs, from classic tank styles to trendy cutouts and plunging necklines, catering to different tastes and body types.

Styles of One-Piece Bathing Suits

Now that we've explored the names and history, let's take a closer look at the various styles of one-piece bathing suits available today. Each style offers unique features that cater to different preferences and body shapes.

1. Classic Tank One-Piece

The classic tank one-piece is a timeless choice, featuring broad shoulder straps and a modest cut. This style is perfect for those seeking comfort and support, making it ideal for swimming or lounging by the pool. At Outlet Bikini, we offer a variety of classic tank one-pieces that provide both style and functionality. Check out our One-Pieces Collection for stylish options.

2. High-Waisted One-Piece

The high-waisted one-piece has made a significant comeback in recent years. This style features a higher cut around the waist, offering more coverage while emphasizing the waistline. It's a flattering choice for women looking to enhance their curves and create a retro-inspired look.

3. Cut-Out One-Piece

For those looking to make a statement, the cut-out one-piece is an excellent option. This design features strategic cut-outs, adding a trendy twist to the classic silhouette. Whether it's side cut-outs or an open back, this style balances coverage with a touch of allure.

4. Plunge Neckline One-Piece

The plunge neckline one-piece is designed for those who want to showcase their curves. With a deep V-cut that accentuates the décolletage, this style is both sexy and sophisticated. It's perfect for beach parties or lounging by the pool, making you feel confident and beautiful.

5. Sporty One-Piece

The sporty one-piece is ideal for active women. This style typically features a racerback design and is made from durable, quick-drying materials. It's perfect for swimming, beach volleyball, or any water sports. At Outlet Bikini, we have sporty options that combine functionality with style to keep you comfortable during your activities.

6. Monokini

As previously mentioned, the monokini refers to a one-piece swimsuit with cutouts. This bold design is perfect for fashion-forward women looking to stand out at the beach or pool. The monokini offers a unique blend of coverage and exposure, making it a trendy choice for summer.

Choosing the Right One-Piece Bathing Suit

With so many styles available, how do you choose the perfect one-piece bathing suit for your body type and personal style? Here are some tips to consider:

1. Understand Your Body Type

Before shopping for a one-piece, it's essential to understand your body type. Whether you're curvy, athletic, or petite, different styles will flatter different shapes. For example, if you have an hourglass figure, a cut-out one-piece can accentuate your curves, while a high-waisted style can enhance a pear-shaped body.

2. Consider Your Activities

Think about the activities you plan to engage in while wearing your one-piece bathing suit. Are you swimming laps, lounging on the beach, or participating in water sports? Choose a style that offers the right level of support and comfort for your intended use.

3. Prioritize Comfort

Comfort should always be a top priority when selecting swimwear. Look for one-pieces with adjustable straps, built-in support, and soft, stretchy materials. At Outlet Bikini, we ensure our swimwear is crafted for both comfort and style, so you can feel confident all day long.

4. Experiment with Colors and Patterns

Don't be afraid to explore different colors and patterns. Whether you prefer bold prints, classic solids, or trendy color-blocking, there's a one-piece bathing suit out there that will reflect your unique style. Outlet Bikini offers a wide range of designs to help you express your individuality. Check out our New Arrivals for the latest trends.

5. Invest in Quality

When it comes to swimwear, quality matters. A well-constructed one-piece will not only last longer but also provide better support and fit. Look for brands that prioritize quality materials and craftsmanship. At Outlet Bikini, we are committed to delivering stylish swimwear that empowers women and enhances their beach experiences.

The Impact of One-Piece Bathing Suits on Women's Fashion

One-piece bathing suits have played a significant role in shaping women's fashion over the years. Their evolution reflects broader societal changes and the ongoing conversation about body image, confidence, and empowerment. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Challenging Beauty Standards

One-piece bathing suits have challenged traditional beauty standards by offering women a stylish option that prioritizes comfort and coverage. This shift has encouraged women to embrace their bodies regardless of societal expectations, promoting body positivity and self-acceptance.

2. Empowering Women

The one-piece bathing suit embodies empowerment by allowing women to express their personal style while feeling confident and comfortable. With various designs available, women can choose a swimsuit that reflects their individuality, making them feel beautiful in their skin.

3. Influencing Fashion Trends

The resurgence of the one-piece bathing suit has influenced fashion trends beyond swimwear. Designers have incorporated one-piece elements into everyday fashion, showcasing their versatility and appeal. This crossover has solidified the one-piece as a fashion staple, transcending its original purpose as swimwear.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the one-piece bathing suit—often referred to as a maillot, tank suit, or even a monokini—has a rich history and a diverse range of styles that cater to women of all shapes and sizes. Whether you're drawn to the classic tank design or the daring cut-out style, each one-piece offers a unique way to express your personal style while feeling confident and beautiful.

At Outlet Bikini, we are dedicated to helping women embrace their unique beauty, one perfect bikini at a time, through style, quality, and customer satisfaction. As you prepare for summer adventures, remember that the right one-piece bathing suit can enhance your experience and empower you to feel your best.

FAQ

1. What is a one-piece bathing suit called? A one-piece bathing suit is commonly referred to as a maillot, tank suit, or simply a one-piece swimsuit.

2. What styles are available in one-piece bathing suits? One-piece bathing suits come in various styles, including classic tank, high-waisted, cut-out, plunge neckline, sporty, and monokini.

3. How do I choose the right one-piece bathing suit for my body type? Consider your body type, the activities you'll engage in, prioritize comfort, explore colors and patterns, and invest in quality swimwear.

4. Are one-piece bathing suits flattering for all body types? Yes! One-piece bathing suits are designed to flatter diverse body types, with styles available to enhance curves, provide support, and offer coverage.

5. Where can I find stylish one-piece bathing suits? Explore our One-Pieces Collection at Outlet Bikini, where we offer a range of trendy and affordable swimwear designed to empower every woman.

930 x 520px

SPRING SUMMER LOOKBOOK

Sample Block Quote

Praesent vestibulum congue tellus at fringilla. Curabitur vitae semper sem, eu convallis est. Cras felis nunc commodo eu convallis vitae interdum non nisl. Maecenas ac est sit amet augue pharetra convallis.

Sample Paragraph Text

Praesent vestibulum congue tellus at fringilla. Curabitur vitae semper sem, eu convallis est. Cras felis nunc commodo eu convallis vitae interdum non nisl. Maecenas ac est sit amet augue pharetra convallis nec danos dui. Cras suscipit quam et turpis eleifend vitae malesuada magna congue. Damus id ullamcorper neque. Sed vitae mi a mi pretium aliquet ac sed elitos. Pellentesque nulla eros accumsan quis justo at tincidunt lobortis deli denimes, suspendisse vestibulum lectus in lectus volutpate.
Prev Post
Next Post

Thanks for subscribing!

This email has been registered!

Shop the look

Choose Options

Outlet Bikini
Sign Up for exclusive updates, new arrivals & insider only discounts

Recently Viewed

Social

Edit Option
Back In Stock Notification
Terms & Conditions

Terms of Service:

The following terms and conditions govern all use of the outletbikini.com website and all content, services and products available at or through the website (taken together, the Website). The Website is owned and operated by Outlet Bikini ("Outlet Bikini"). The Website is offered subject to your acceptance without modification of all of the terms and conditions contained here in and all other operating rules, policies (including, without limitation, Outlet Bikini Privacy Policy) and procedures that may be published from time to time on this Site by Outlet Bikini (collectively, the "Agreement"). Please read this Agreement carefully before accessing or using the Website. By accessing or using any part of the web site, you agree to become bound by the terms and conditions of this agreement. If you do not agree to all the terms and conditions of this agreement, then you may not access the Website or use any services. If these terms and conditions are considered an offer by Outlet Bikini, acceptance is expressly limited to these terms. The Website is available only to individuals who are at least 13 years old.
  1. Your outletbikini.com Account and Site. If you create a blog/site on the Website, you are responsible for maintaining the security of your account and blog, and you are fully responsible for all activities that occur under the account and any other actions taken in connection with the blog. You must not describe or assign keywords to your blog in a misleading or unlawful manner, including in a manner intended to trade on the name or reputation of others, and Outlet Bikini may change or remove any description or keyword that it considers inappropriate or unlawful, or otherwise likely to cause Outlet Bikini liability. You must immediately notify Outlet Bikini of any unauthorized uses of your blog, your account or any other breaches of security. Outlet Bikini will not be liable for any acts or omissions by You, including any damages of any kind incurred as a result of such acts or omissions.
  2. Responsibility of Contributors. If you operate a blog, comment on a blog, post material to the Website, post links on the Website, or otherwise make (or allow any third party to make) material available by means of the Website (any such material, "Content"), You are entirely responsible for the content of, and any harm resulting from, that Content. That is the case regardless of whether the Content in question constitutes text, graphics, an audio file, or computer software. By making Content available, you represent and warrant that:
    • the downloading, copying and use of the Content will not infringe the proprietary rights, including but not limited to the copyright, patent, trademark or trade secret rights, of any third party;
    • if your employer has rights to intellectual property you create, you have either (i) received permission from your employer to post or make available the Content, including but not limited to any software, or (ii) secured from your employer a waiver as to all rights in or to the Content;
    • you have fully complied with any third-party licenses relating to the Content, and have done all things necessary to successfully pass through to end users any required terms;
    • the Content does not contain or install any viruses, worms, malware, Trojan horses or other harmful or destructive content;
    • the Content is not spam, is not machine- or randomly-generated, and does not contain unethical or unwanted commercial content designed to drive traffic to third party sites or boost the search engine rankings of third party sites, or to further unlawful acts (such as phishing) or mislead recipients as to the source of the material (such as spoofing);
    • the Content is not pornographic, does not contain threats or incite violence towards individuals or entities, and does not violate the privacy or publicity rights of any third party;
    • your blog is not getting advertised via unwanted electronic messages such as spam links on newsgroups, email lists, other blogs and web sites, and similar unsolicited promotional methods;
    • your blog is not named in a manner that misleads your readers into thinking that you are another person or company. For example, your blog's URL or name is not the name of a person other than yourself or company other than your own; and
    • you have, in the case of Content that includes computer code, accurately categorized and/or described the type, nature, uses and effects of the materials, whether requested to do so by Outlet Bikini or otherwise.
    By submitting Content to Outlet Bikini for inclusion on your Website, you grant Outlet Bikini a world-wide, royalty-free, and non-exclusive license to reproduce, modify, adapt and publish the Content solely for the purpose of displaying, distributing and promoting your blog. If you delete Content, Outlet Bikini will use reasonable efforts to remove it from the Website, but you acknowledge that caching or references to the Content may not be made immediately unavailable. Without limiting any of those representations or warranties, Outlet Bikini has the right (though not the obligation) to, in Outlet Bikini sole discretion (i) refuse or remove any content that, in Outlet Bikini reasonable opinion, violates any Outlet Bikini policy or is in any way harmful or objectionable, or (ii) terminate or deny access to and use of the Website to any individual or entity for any reason, in Outlet Bikini sole discretion. Outlet Bikini will have no obligation to provide a refund of any amounts previously paid.
  3. Payment and Renewal.
    • General Terms. By selecting a product or service, you agree to pay Outlet Bikini the one-time and/or monthly or annual subscription fees indicated (additional payment terms may be included in other communications). Subscription payments will be charged on a pre-pay basis on the day you sign up for an Upgrade and will cover the use of that service for a monthly or annual subscription period as indicated. Payments are not refundable.
    • Automatic Renewal. Unless you notify Outlet Bikini before the end of the applicable subscription period that you want to cancel a subscription, your subscription will automatically renew and you authorize us to collect the then-applicable annual or monthly subscription fee for such subscription (as well as any taxes) using any credit card or other payment mechanism we have on record for you. Upgrades can be canceled at any time by submitting your request to Outlet Bikini in writing.
  4. Services.
    • Fees; Payment. By signing up for a Services account you agree to pay Outlet Bikini the applicable setup fees and recurring fees. Applicable fees will be invoiced starting from the day your services are established and in advance of using such services. Outlet Bikini reserves the right to change the payment terms and fees upon thirty (30) days prior written notice to you. Services can be canceled by you at anytime on thirty (30) days written notice to Outlet Bikini.
    • Support. If your service includes access to priority email support. "Email support" means the ability to make requests for technical support assistance by email at any time (with reasonable efforts by Outlet Bikini to respond within one business day) concerning the use of the VIP Services. "Priority" means that support takes priority over support for users of the standard or free outletbikini.com services. All support will be provided in accordance with Outlet Bikini standard services practices, procedures and policies.
  5. Responsibility of Website Visitors. Outlet Bikini has not reviewed, and cannot review, all of the material, including computer software, posted to the Website, and cannot therefore be responsible for that material's content, use or effects. By operating the Website, Outlet Bikini does not represent or imply that it endorses the material there posted, or that it believes such material to be accurate, useful or non-harmful. You are responsible for taking precautions as necessary to protect yourself and your computer systems from viruses, worms, Trojan horses, and other harmful or destructive content. The Website may contain content that is offensive, indecent, or otherwise objectionable, as well as content containing technical inaccuracies, typographical mistakes, and other errors. The Website may also contain material that violates the privacy or publicity rights, or infringes the intellectual property and other proprietary rights, of third parties, or the downloading, copying or use of which is subject to additional terms and conditions, stated or unstated. Outlet Bikini disclaims any responsibility for any harm resulting from the use by visitors of the Website, or from any downloading by those visitors of content there posted.
  6. Content Posted on Other Websites. We have not reviewed, and cannot review, all of the material, including computer software, made available through the websites and webpages to which outletbikini.com links, and that link to outletbikini.com. Outlet Bikini does not have any control over those non-Outlet Bikini websites and webpages, and is not responsible for their contents or their use. By linking to a non-Outlet Bikini website or webpage, Outlet Bikini does not represent or imply that it endorses such website or webpage. You are responsible for taking precautions as necessary to protect yourself and your computer systems from viruses, worms, Trojan horses, and other harmful or destructive content. Outlet Bikini disclaims any responsibility for any harm resulting from your use of non-Outlet Bikini websites and webpages.
  7. Copyright Infringement and DMCA Policy. As Outlet Bikini asks others to respect its intellectual property rights, it respects the intellectual property rights of others. If you believe that material located on or linked to by outletbikini.com violates your copyright, you are encouraged to notify Outlet Bikini in accordance with Outlet Bikini Digital Millennium Copyright Act ("DMCA") Policy. Outlet Bikini will respond to all such notices, including as required or appropriate by removing the infringing material or disabling all links to the infringing material. Outlet Bikini will terminate a visitor's access to and use of the Website if, under appropriate circumstances, the visitor is determined to be a repeat infringer of the copyrights or other intellectual property rights of Outlet Bikini or others. In the case of such termination, Outlet Bikini will have no obligation to provide a refund of any amounts previously paid to Outlet Bikini.
  8. Intellectual Property. This Agreement does not transfer from Outlet Bikini to you any Outlet Bikini or third party intellectual property, and all right, title and interest in and to such property will remain (as between the parties) solely with Outlet Bikini. Outlet Bikini, outletbikini.com, the outletbikini.com logo, and all other trademarks, service marks, graphics and logos used in connection with outletbikini.com, or the Website are trademarks or registered trademarks of Outlet Bikini or Outlet Bikini licensors. Other trademarks, service marks, graphics and logos used in connection with the Website may be the trademarks of other third parties. Your use of the Website grants you no right or license to reproduce or otherwise use any Outlet Bikini or third-party trademarks.
  9. Advertisements. Outlet Bikini reserves the right to display advertisements on your blog unless you have purchased an ad-free account.
  10. Attribution. Outlet Bikini reserves the right to display attribution links such as 'Blog at outletbikini.com,' theme author, and font attribution in your blog footer or toolbar.
  11. Partner Products. By activating a partner product (e.g. theme) from one of our partners, you agree to that partner's terms of service. You can opt out of their terms of service at any time by de-activating the partner product.
  12. Domain Names. If you are registering a domain name, using or transferring a previously registered domain name, you acknowledge and agree that use of the domain name is also subject to the policies of the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers ("ICANN"), including their Registration Rights and Responsibilities.
  13. Changes. Outlet Bikini reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to modify or replace any part of this Agreement. It is your responsibility to check this Agreement periodically for changes. Your continued use of or access to the Website following the posting of any changes to this Agreement constitutes acceptance of those changes. Outlet Bikini may also, in the future, offer new services and/or features through the Website (including, the release of new tools and resources). Such new features and/or services shall be subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
  14. Termination. Outlet Bikini may terminate your access to all or any part of the Website at any time, with or without cause, with or without notice, effective immediately. If you wish to terminate this Agreement or your outletbikini.com account (if you have one), you may simply discontinue using the Website. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if you have a paid services account, such account can only be terminated by Outlet Bikini if you materially breach this Agreement and fail to cure such breach within thirty (30) days from Outlet Bikini notice to you thereof; provided that, Outlet Bikini can terminate the Website immediately as part of a general shut down of our service. All provisions of this Agreement which by their nature should survive termination shall survive termination, including, without limitation, ownership provisions, warranty disclaimers, indemnity and limitations of liability.
  15. Disclaimer of Warranties. The Website is provided "as is". Outlet Bikini and its suppliers and licensors hereby disclaim all warranties of any kind, express or implied, including, without limitation, the warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose and non-infringement. Neither Outlet Bikini nor its suppliers and licensors, makes any warranty that the Website will be error free or that access thereto will be continuous or uninterrupted. You understand that you download from, or otherwise obtain content or services through, the Website at your own discretion and risk.
  16. Limitation of Liability. In no event will Outlet Bikini, or its suppliers or licensors, be liable with respect to any subject matter of this agreement under any contract, negligence, strict liability or other legal or equitable theory for: (i) any special, incidental or consequential damages; (ii) the cost of procurement for substitute products or services; (iii) for interruption of use or loss or corruption of data; or (iv) for any amounts that exceed the fees paid by you to Outlet Bikini under this agreement during the twelve (12) month period prior to the cause of action. Outlet Bikini shall have no liability for any failure or delay due to matters beyond their reasonable control. The foregoing shall not apply to the extent prohibited by applicable law.
  17. General Representation and Warranty. You represent and warrant that (i) your use of the Website will be in strict accordance with the Outlet Bikini Privacy Policy, with this Agreement and with all applicable laws and regulations (including without limitation any local laws or regulations in your country, state, city, or other governmental area, regarding online conduct and acceptable content, and including all applicable laws regarding the transmission of technical data exported from the United States or the country in which you reside) and (ii) your use of the Website will not infringe or misappropriate the intellectual property rights of any third party.
  18. Indemnification. You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Outlet Bikini, its contractors, and its licensors, and their respective directors, officers, employees and agents from and against any and all claims and expenses, including attorneys' fees, arising out of your use of the Website, including but not limited to your violation of this Agreement.
  19. Miscellaneous. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between Outlet Bikini and you concerning the subject matter hereof, and they may only be modified by a written amendment signed by an authorized executive of Outlet Bikini, or by the posting by Outlet Bikini of a revised version. Except to the extent applicable law, if any, provides otherwise, this Agreement, any access to or use of the Website will be governed by the laws of the state of California, U.S.A., excluding its conflict of law provisions, and the proper venue for any disputes arising out of or relating to any of the same will be the state and federal courts located in San Francisco County, California. Except for claims for injunctive or equitable relief or claims regarding intellectual property rights (which may be brought in any competent court without the posting of a bond), any dispute arising under this Agreement shall be finally settled in accordance with the Comprehensive Arbitration Rules of the Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Service, Inc. ("JAMS") by three arbitrators appointed in accordance with such Rules. The arbitration shall take place in San Francisco, California, in the English language and the arbitral decision may be enforced in any court. The prevailing party in any action or proceeding to enforce this Agreement shall be entitled to costs and attorneys' fees. If any part of this Agreement is held invalid or unenforceable, that part will be construed to reflect the parties' original intent, and the remaining portions will remain in full force and effect. A waiver by either party of any term or condition of this Agreement or any breach thereof, in any one instance, will not waive such term or condition or any subsequent breach thereof. You may assign your rights under this Agreement to any party that consents to, and agrees to be bound by, its terms and conditions; Outlet Bikini may assign its rights under this Agreement without condition. This Agreement will be binding upon and will inure to the benefit of the parties, their successors and permitted assigns.
this is just a warning
Login
Shopping Cart
0 items