It’s the perfect time of year to update an item that's always a go-to staple. No, this isn't the LBD (little black dress) we're talking about. This is the LBB — the little black bathing suit. TODAY Style rounded up a few favorite styles that are sure to flatter everybody (and every body).
From one-pieces and bikinis to monokinis and everything in-between, make a splash this summer with the most universal color of them all.
Lord & Taylor Eco Peace by Beaded Top: $50 High-Waisted Bottom: $72
Who needs accessories when your bathing suit comes with a statement necklace? This cute swimsuit could go straight from the beach to dinner.
Kenneth Cole Stompin in Stilettos One-Piece: $107
The interesting neckline and sheer panels keep this substantial suit feeling young and flirty; it's not dowdy in the slightest.
Lane Bryant Miraclesuit Zipper One-Piece Swimsuit: $178
This one-piece swimsuit dives deep with a daring zip-front design in a patented slimming fabric. Soft cups with fixed straps offer support on top.
Eco Swim by Aqua Green Mesh Bandeau Top: $88 Solid Bikini Bottom: $50
Tankinis are a great choice for all body types. The belt detailing on this design defines the waist while detachable straps allow for convertible options. Wear it as either a bandeau or off-the-shoulder look.
Longitude Colorblock Mesh Highneck: $93
Calling all long torso-ed ladies! This suit is made longer in length for an even finer fit. Plus, a high-mesh neckline gives just enough coverage up top.
Magicsuit Scuba Sydney Suit: $158
Made with control neoprene for a long-lasting fit, this stylish suit has princess seams and a flouncy ruffle to add shape and interest.
Liz Claiborne Laser Cut Tankini Swim Top: $34.99; Liz Claiborne Solid Skirted Swim Bottoms: $34.99
Ditch the boring bathing suit and try a laser-cut design that highlights the waist and adds a unique bit of flair. The skirted bottom is a great way to add extra coverage while still staying stylish.
Nordstrom Miraclesuit Jena One-Shoulder One-Piece Swimsuit: $160
With asymmetrical mesh inserts and shirring, this one shoulder style looks like a designer piece.
Sweaty Betty Dolphin Swimsuit: $100
This super sleek one-piece is designed to flatter your silhouette. A built-in bra shelf with feminine double straps and an open back keeps it looking beautiful at all angles.
Land's End Women’s Beach Living Sweetheart Bikini Top $49; Women’s Beach Living Convertible Bikini $45
High-rise bikini bottoms are all the rage this season — and for good reason. The retro look is as comfortable in its coverage as it is fashionable.
Land's End Women’s Slender Tunic One Piece Swimsuit $119
This multitasking suit provides all-over support with ruching and an eye-catching design with its strappy back.
Target Xhilaration Bralette Flounce Bikini Top: $17.99 - $19.99; Xhilaration Strappy Bikini Bottom: $14.99
Ideal for athletic builds and women with smaller busts, this two-piece boasts ruffles that create a curvier shape up top.
JCPenney Arizona Crochet Bralette Swim Top: $23.99; Arizona Shirred High-Waist, Sale: $23.99
What do you need for a bikini body? A body and a bikini! This two-piece wonder is a perfect first bikini for those who want to show just one sexy sliver of skin.
Target Xhilaration Underwire Faux Wrap Bikini Top: $19.99 - $22.99; Xhilaration Strappy Bikini Bottom, $14.99
Ideal for pear-shapes figures, the push-up top and eye catching details create dimension.
Target Mossimo Crochet Halter One Piece: $39.99
This look is ideal for petite women who want more coverage than a typical bikini, but don’t want to be overwhelmed by too much fabric. It's also great for covering a mid-section without completely hiding it.
Liz Claiborne Solid Twist Bandeau Maillot One-Piece Swimsuit: $64.99
Talk about a classic! This bandeau one-piece comes with a detachable strap so that you can wear it as a halter when swimming and a strapless when sunbathing. Buy it now, wear it forever.
Target Vitamin A Soleil Cropped Rashguard:$39.99; Vitamin A Soleil Mesh Hipster Bottom: $29.99
This trendy rashguard style is Ideal for women who want more coverage on their arms and shoulders. It's also great for people who are active at the beach with activities like surfing, volleyball and swimming.
Guess Plunge Neck Chain Monokini: $58
Great for hiding the lower tummy area without covering it all up. A sexy monkini with gold chain detail and a plunging halter adds just enough shine to your summer swim look.
J.Crew Ruched Bandeau One-Piece Swimsuit: $98
This suit is a classic! The ruching is super flattering and the strapless neckline highlights the sexy shoulder area. Your lack of tan lines will thank you.
Old Navy Underwire Bustier Bikini Top: $26.94; High-Waisted Swim Bottom: $24.94
The removable, adjustable shoulder straps and molded cups create a secure and comfortable fit on top, while these high-waisted bottoms help flatten the tummy and cinch the waist. It's a win-win!
Old Navy Ruffle-Overlay Bikini Top: $22.94; Ruched Hipster Swim Bottoms: $22.94
The ruffle overlay on this bathing suit adds a feminine, flirty feel to an otherwise common style. And these classic bikini bottoms offer a bit more coverage at the hips with figure-flattering ruched details.
Old Navy Cinched Tankini Top: $32.94; Strappy Bikini Bottoms: $19.94
This halter top offers more coverage than a traditional one-piece with the added convenience of a two-piece.
H&M Super Push-up Bikini Top: $20; Bikini Bottoms: $13
Brigitte Bardot, is that? Not for the light of heart, this style gives a boost to the bustline and flatter a petite figure.
Aerie Dreamy Bikini Maker Tops: starting at $24.95; Bottoms: starting at $19.95
Mix and match lovers, this is the suit for you! Aerie let's you swap and change different tops and bottoms to create the bikini of your dreams.
Christine Bibbo Herr is a style, beauty and fitness expert. You can find her at nycpretty.com.