These 16 Black Swimsuits Will Make Any Beach Minimalist’s Heart Sing
Add figure-flattering cuts and classic silhouettes to your collection for a dose of instant summer elegance. The little black swimsuit is in style this year – and it will be for many more to come.
Words by Alice Jeffery · Updated on 15 Jul 2026 · Published on 05 Jan 2024
Summer is the season I find myself wearing the most colour. It comes with the territory of days spent sipping a juicy limoncello spritz and making my way through the to-read pile that’s accumulated on my bookshelf. But when it comes to swimmers (aka bathers, togs or cossies depending on where you’re from), a black suit simply cannot be beat. Whether you’re team one-piece or looking for a new bikini, these timeless styles are always elegant and flattering – think of them as the LBD of your swimwear collection.
Innes Lauren square one-piece
$300
Sustainable local swim brand Innes Lauren is known for its timeless approach to design. This squared-neck swimsuit is a classic. It comes complete with a built-in bra shelf and is self-lined for added support. You could also opt for this strapless silhouette if that’s your speed.
Form and Fold positions itself as the go-to swim brand for bigger busts. This sleek one-piece is fitted with a hidden in-built underwire bra and is sized D+ to help wearers find the perfect fit.
Matteau’s signature maillot gets a one-shoulder update this summer. Style the streamlined piece with the brand’s bias silk slip skirt for an easy dinner ensemble.
Bond-Eye is known for its one-size swimsuits made from that crinkle fabric. And there’s a whole range of core black styles to pick from. This lace back top can be worn with a crossover neckline or tied into a classic scoop silhouette. And bottoms come in a range of coverage.
Dubbed an “all-time favourite” by a Broadsheet editor, Hakea’s surf suit is the definition of sports chic. It fits with a zip-front and cap sleeves, but a cut-out detail gives party-in-the-back energy – it’s also UFP50+.
Subtle texture adds intrigue to this jacquard design. The asymmetrical top features mono-wiring to support the silhouette. You could also opt for triangle or keyhole styles to complete the set.
Trust Sydney brand Sir to level up your swim collection. This keyhole style is complete with curved cups that flatter the décolletage – you could also wear this one with a midi skirt for holiday nights.
Fella’s collections often skew colourful. But the brand’s noir pieces are endlessly elegant and easy to wear. This top style offers extra support for B-cup busts and bigger.
The subtly ribbed fabric marries perfectly with a streamlined cut to create this elegant piece from Saba, which is made in collaboration with local resort label Ephemera. Add this spotted silk sarong to the mix for Princess Diana coded styling.
Everything that Toteme touches turns to minimalist chic – this swimsuit is no exception. The contrasting trim is the sort of thoughtful touch that elevates the Swedish brand’s pieces to cult status. This logo style is slightly louder but equally chic.
If you’ve also watched Pretty Woman these holidays, you might be itching to get your hands on a Hunza G swimsuit – the brand is behind Julia Roberts’s famed dress. This classic black take on the one-sized seersucker swimsuit is finished with a low scoop back that’s subtly sexy.
Christopher Esber Ruched Prong top and Orbit briefs
$155 - $180
Christopher Esber applies its cocktail-hour energy to this embellished set. This cut-out swimsuit offers a similar effect if you prefer a one-piece – you could also style it as a bodysuit with a pair of black pants.
This delicate off-shoulder style isn’t made for bodysurfing. The neckline echoes Zimmerman’s signature cocktail dress silhouettes – grab a pina colada and call it a day. The brand offers other artful pieces as separates if you prefer to mix and match. These scarf-effect pants and scoop bra make quite the combo.
A scalloped plunging neckline adds a charming touch to this classic silhouette. It also features a waist panel to help provide shape and a shelf bra for support – and it’s made largely from recycled materials.
Okay, this one breaks the mould slightly with its half-black, half-white design but you’ll forgive me because it’s still impossibly chic. The bandeau neckline is choice for anyone looking to avoid tan lines.
We hope you like the products and services we recommend on Broadsheet. Our editors select each one independently. Broadsheet may receive an affiliate commission when you follow some links.
About the author
Alice Jeffery is a freelance writer and Broadsheet’s former shopping editor.
