What is a bodysuit?
Bodysuit A crotchless swimsuit is a one-piece, form-fitting garment that covers the torso and groin, visually resembling a one-piece swimsuit. Its main design feature is a groin closure, typically with snaps or hooks.
To understand what a bodysuit is, it's important to understand its primary function: creating a smooth, form-fitting silhouette without bunching. Thanks to the hem, it stays in place while you're actively moving.
Historically, this item evolved from the leotard, a sports swimsuit created in the 19th century for acrobats. The bodysuit entered the everyday women's wardrobe in the 1980s, riding the wave of aerobics popularity, and designer Donna Karan cemented its status as a staple in the 1990s.
Main types
Modern models differ in cut, materials and purpose.
- Basic knitwear: They are made from cotton, viscose, or microfiber with added elastane. The top of these garments mimics the cut of a classic T-shirt, turtleneck, long-sleeve top, or tank top with thin straps.
- Bodysuit blouses: A combination garment where the top is made like a shirt or silk blouse, and the bottom is made of stretch jersey and resembles panties. This option is ideal for a strict business dress code.
- Lingerie and evening wear: Models made of lace, mesh, velvet, or silk. Often complemented with deep necklines, decorative elements, or translucent inserts, they are used as a standalone top for evening looks.
- Corrective and sports: Made from dense, high-tech fabrics, the athletic styles support muscles and wick away moisture during workouts, while the shapewear styles contour the silhouette and tighten the waist.
What to combine with
The bodysuit fits harmoniously into everyday, business and evening outfits due to its versatility.
- With a high rise bottom: The piece pairs well with classic jeans, wide-leg palazzo pants, and high-waisted pencil skirts, accentuating the figure's proportions.
- As a first layer: The smooth texture makes this bodysuit a perfect base for structured jackets, oversized cardigans, and tailored suits. The absence of folds prevents excess bulk around the midsection.
- Layered images: Thin turtleneck bodysuits are worn under slip dresses, thick oversized shirts, or voluminous sweaters with a deep V-neck.
- Balance of volumes: Since the garment is tight-fitting, it's recommended to wear it with looser or fuller bottoms. An example is a pairing of a fitted long-sleeve bodysuit with cargo pants or a pleated skirt.
