The Elegant Swim Trend French and Italian Women Wear to Look Rich

a collage showing the black-and-white swimwear trend on fashion influencers
(Image credit: @minahabchi; @annarvitiello)

ICYMI, summer's in full swing. While there are so many staples we might associate with this time of year (such as sandals or sundresses), none are as quintessential as swimwear. Sure, we all love a good linen set, but there's just something about suits that fully embody the energy of summer. But I'd be lying if I said that all swimwear was good. In truth, shopping for bathing suits is incredibly challenging, as you're not only trying to find the most flattering suit for your body but one that's fashionable, too. If I'm keeping it real, there are far more swim trends that air on the side of being, well, tacky (sorry, thong bikinis). Therefore, what's one to do when they want to find the most sophisticated swimwear for the summer? Ahem, turn to the style set. While searching for the most elegant and expensive-looking beachwear, I realized that one trend has taken over everywhere: black-and-white swimsuits.

From the beaches of Nice to Tulum to Lagos to Positano, this minimal trend has made huge waves in recent months. Although it may not seem like the most groundbreaking trend, that's far from the truth. We've seen simple black-and-white suits being given a sophisticated twist thanks to their reimagining in resort collections and creative styling on the part of the fashion crowd. But you don't have to just take my word for it. Ahead, you'll find a few examples of women styling two-tone swimwear this summer. Plus, I've rounded up the 30 best black-and-white swimsuits at every price point. Whether you're looking to stock up for the summer or want to look like you're on a holiday in St. Tropez, I've got you covered.

a close photo of a woman wearing the black-and-white swim trend in the form of a black-and-white bikini bottom with a black bandeau top and black sequin coverup

(Image credit: @coco_floflo)

a photo of a woman wearing the black-and-white swimsuit trend, specifically a white bikini top with black linen pants, silver earrings, black sunglasses, and a chanel beach tote

(Image credit: @cassdimicco)

a close photo of a woman wearing the black-and-white swimsuit trend in the form of a black one-piece with white Chanel logo

(Image credit: @dananozime)

a close photo of a woman wearing the black-and-white swim trend with a white strapless bikini top styled with a white maxi skirt and a celine raffia hat

(Image credit: @tenickab)

a close photo of a woman wearing the black-and-white swim trend, specifically a bikini top styled with white pants and black sunglasses

(Image credit: @minahabchi)

a close photo of a woman wearing the black-and-white swim trend wearing a one-piece suit

(Image credit: @nitsanraiter)

a close photo of a woman wearing the black-and-white swimsuit trend in the form of a balconette bikini

(Image credit: @michelleinfusino)

a close photo of a woman by the pool wearing the black-and-white swim trend in the form of a bikini styled with a chain belt, gold earrings, black sunglasses, and a white bag

(Image credit: @annarvitiello)

a close photo of a woman wearing the black-and-white swim trend in the form of a one-piece suit styled with a raffia hat and white slides

(Image credit: @jeannine.roxas)

a photo of a woman wearing the black-and-white swim trend in the form of a black-and-white one-piece styled with a black swim maxi skirt

(Image credit: @lefevrediary)
Jasmine Fox-Suliaman
Editor

Jasmine Fox-Suliaman is a fashion editor living in New York City. What began as a hobby (blogging on Tumblr) transformed into a career dedicated to storytelling through various forms of digital media. She started her career at the print publication 303 Magazine, where she wrote stories, helped produce photo shoots, and planned Denver Fashion Week. After moving to Los Angeles, she worked as MyDomaine's social media editor until she was promoted to work across all of Clique's publications (MyDomaine, Byrdie, and Who What Wear) as the community manager. Over the past few years, Jasmine has worked on Who What Wear's editorial team, using her extensive background to champion rising BIPOC designers, weigh in on viral trends, and profile stars such as Janet Mock and Victoria Monét. She is especially interested in exploring how art, fashion, and pop culture intersect online and IRL.