The return of the one-piece swimsuit

It takes one svelte figure, virtually no bust and a lot of pre-holiday preparation to look half decent in a bikini, so we’re thrilled to see the return of the swimsuit this summer.

They’re becoming so popular that the fashion industry has given them a new name, the monokini. How 2010.

The rise of the one-piece falls in line with the return of minimalist, conservative-chic. Think sky blues, reds, creams and black. The swimsuit must act as the key building block of your holiday wardrobe, so keep it simple.

HOW TO WEAR THEM

PLAIN: Prints draw attention to all the wrong places. Keep colours plain and simple, or go for stripes, ticking or polka dots, which give variation to a classic cut.

WITH DETAIL: One of the joys of a plain outfit is that you have free rein to throw on as many accessories as you want. The same applies here.

HALTERNECK: The one-piece allows you to experiment with an array of necklines. Halternecks are easily the most elegant since they pronounce your collarbone while keeping you supported.