You're Not Wearing Your Swimsuits Properly: Bella Hadid Knows Best

Trust us

By Taylor Stephan May 26, 2016 10:39 PMTags
ESC, Bella HadidVIPix / Splash News

Whoever said bathing suits are just for swimming has clearly never been to Hollywood.

Sure, that killer suit you just bought looks good on its own, but really, how many times can you wear a suit until you're bored of it? Instead of limiting yours to in-water activities only, steal Bella Hadid's (and reality star Kendall Jenner's) genius idea of incorporating swimwear into your everyday summer wardrobe.

Besides, a good summer uniform is exceptionally laid-back, so we promise, a swimsuit won't feel out of place.

For every summer occasion, below are the best ways to style your swimsuits.

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For a weekend uniform, the rules are pretty standard: jeans on bottom, shirt on top. To step it up and incorporate your suit, take a flouncy top and pair it with high-waisted denim (skirt, pants, shorts—doesn't matter!). Since you're aiming for the ultimate relaxed look, platform espadrilles are functional while also keeping things fresh. To top off your look, keep add-ons, like an oversized cardigan and tortoise shell sunnies, classic and neutral. 

Express Bikini Lab Coin Trimmed Handkerchief Swim Top, $39.90; Topshop Moto Acid Wash Denim Skirt, $58; Mango Striped Texture Cardigan, $79.99; Superga 2790 Cotopew Sneakers, $89; Asos Round Sunglasses With Metal Arms and Flash Lens, $16.50

If you're heading to an outdoor concert instead of the beach, recycle a mesh tankini top for a sporty cool-girl look. To seamlessly take it up a notch, a colorful high-waisted bottom that meets the hem of your swimsuit right at the midsection is a flattering combo. For chillier occasions, add an oversized-but-structured bomber jacket that gives off an I-know-what-I'm-doing-style-wise polished but laid-back appeal. 

T by Alexander Wang Mesh-Paneled Stretch Bikini Top, $109.12; River Island Blue Knitted Stripe High Waisted Shorts, $50; Topshop Airtex Bomber Jacket, $110; Sunday Somewhere Isabella Sunglasses, $290; H&M Platform Sandals, $34.99

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If you're off to a backyard BBQ or another outdoor summer soiree of any kind, skip the dress and grab your suit instead! A crochet one piece feels a touch more sophisticated than usual, especially when styled as a bodysuit. Printed flares are a perfect curve-hugging complement, but still fun and day-time appropriate. For more boho vibes, think oversized accessories: wood platform wedges, a floppy suede hat and blue cutout sunnies to complete the look.

She Made Me Laharia Crocheted Cotton Swimsuit, $170; Topshop Floral Print Flared Trousers, $52; Tory Burch Cutout Sunglasses, $195; BCBGeneration Kyra High Heel Platform Sandals, $118; Amici Accessories Floppy Faux Suede Fedora, $28

There's something about a sunset dinner date that makes us want to step it up, but in a casual way. To add subtle drama, treat a structured one-piece like a bodysuit and add a long black maxi for a romantic feel. To keep the look from feeling too formal, pick accessories like lace-up sandals and a colorful embroidered bag, they're casual but still elevated. 

Fleur du Mal Side Cut Out One Piece, $275; Topshop Double Slit Maxi Skirt, $38; New Look Strappy Tie Suede Wooden Heeled Sandal, $57; Valley Eyewear A Dead Coffin Club Sunglasses, $200; Star Mela Bobi Cross Body Pouch, $160

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