No offense to bikinis, but one-pieces are by far the superior swimwear. For a lot of reasons, but mainly because of sheer utility. For instance, one never dives into a pool while wearing a bikini. Forget the supposed lack of modesty for a moment and just think of how likely you are to lose (for good!) a very expensive, very small piece of Lycra. It's irresponsible, clearly, and also limiting. With a one-piece, you never have to worry. Mainly because if you lose it, you lose the whole thing, alleviating the need to go searching for the one perfect pair of bottoms that match with your now-widowed top.

Then there's the style aspect. There's more of it, because you have more real estate to work with. Or not work with! If it's skin you're interested in showing, wearing a one-piece no longer means covering up anything you don't want to cover. You can thank Norma Kamali for that. High cut, low cut, ladylike, good for sporting—the one-piece has it all and is for everyone. Here are some of our favorites:

For the minimalist

A simple, flatting cut (a squared-off neckline works on everyone) in a neutral with a pop of color. Sometimes chic doesn't need to reinvent the wheel.

Carolina wears a Solid & Striped swimsuit, Tuza Jewelry necklace, Paul Andrew sandals, and Lady Grey ring.

For the friendship bracelet enthusiast

Get it? Because of the chevron? Nostalgic, but also hella flattering with the deep-cut neckline and slimming pattern.

Carolina wears a Tommy x Gigi swimsuit and Alexis Bittar cuff.

For the reformed bikini addict

Because the shelf-bra habit is hard to quit. Give into the urge while also covering up the rest of your thoracic region—with a little peekaboo cut-out to show off those upper-upper abs.

Carolina wears an ALIX swimsuit and a Jennifer Fisher cuff.

For mile long legs

In this Norma Kamali number, your legs start at your rib cage and go alllll the way down to the floor. Twenty bucks for whoever gets that reference first.

Carolina wears a Norma Kamali swimsuit, Zimmermann trousers, and a Jennifer Fisher cuff.

For partying in the city where the heat is on

Less of a swimsuit, more of a statement piece. Good for all occasions—whether you want to be by the pool, at the rooftop club that also has a pool, or a bar that is actually a swim-up bar located in a pool.

Carolina wears a Jade Swim swimsuit, Roxanne Assouline bracelets, and a TRUSS bag.

For the Hadid sister

Truly a feat of construction, this is more "work of art" than "bathing suit." It might also require a professional clothes-wearer to make it work. But if I were that professional clothes-wearer, I would also pair it with wide-legged trousers and heels and call it my airport look.

Carolina wears a Cushnie Et Ochs swimsuit, CG shorts, an Alexis Bittar bangle, and Aqua Sphere goggles.

Carolina Sanchez photographed by Tom Newton at the Dream Downtown. Styled by Tchesmeni Leonard. Makeup by Moises Ramirez. Hair by Tim Aylward.

Also necessary: a fine pair of summery frames. Our favorite statement sunnies, over here.