Naked Swimsuits: The Trend I'm Terrified That I Like

For me, putting on a bikini is already dancing dangerously close to public nudity. As someone who isn't averse to showing a little skin but isn't particularly flashy either, I'm all for devoting myself to a flattering suit every summer. But I've never before entertained the idea of a skin-colored suit. Now, I'm rethinking things, and it's all thanks to Bella Hadid.

The fashion-forward model was on vacation wearing a skin-colored string bikini by Storm, and for the first time, I liked the idea of just leaning into the nakedness. While matching your suit to your skin tone isn't necessarily a new idea (any glimpse at past Yeezy shows immediately proves that fact), this year, there's something satisfying about the idea of choosing a suit that manages to convey nothing and something at the same time.

There isn't anything gimmicky or overtly eye-catching about a flesh-tone suit. But at a time when we're championing the fact that our bodies aren't objects of the male gaze, I can choose to wear a suit that exemplifies the fact that I'm comfortable in my own skin. And now, as brands work toward creating a more inclusive idea of what a "skin tone" suit actually looks like, it's possible that we all can sport a nude suit.

Though I know the idea of going full-on nude can be intimidating, my hope is that you find the same curiosity I do in trying a trend that, though appearing simple, can say a lot.

This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Up next, The Biggest Swim Trend of 2021 Has Arrived, and I Have Thoughts About It