After this summer's status swimsuit? Just add a belt

AS MUCh as we welcomed the return of the swimsuit — or ‘one-piece’ in fashion parlance — certain incarnations have been decidedly tricky to wear.

We’ve had complicated cut- outs (with bizarre tan lines to match), finickity fringing and the unsupported peril, not to mention endless hoicking, of the ruffled Bardot swimsuit. But finally, here’s a trend that’s simple, stylish and above all supremely flattering: the belted swimsuit.

The poolside equivalent of a wrap dress, it’s all about the waist — defining, cinching, or simply creating the illusion that one exists. Consider it your heatwave saviour.

The trend reflects a shift in fashion;

the focus now is the silhouette, not the amount of flesh being flashed. this means higher necklines, mesh panels, even sleeved styles. Coverage is chic; neon string bikinis scream love Island reality-tV star.

If status swimwear is all about fit, exploit belted styles to maximum effect. For an even more exaggerated waist, combine it with a lingerie-style cup to lift the bust or sculpting control panels.

how you channel the trend depends on how statement you want to go: a hint of embellishment with a glinting clasp, or a colour- clashing band with an oversized buckle? Both work. Contrasting panels at the waistline create the same effect.

When it comes to choosing a style, consider which era you want to nod to. Cult label solid & striped have a sixties-Bond-girl-inspired take called the Joan (above, left), while Boden’s santorini (£60,

boden.co.uk), evokes Fifties pin-ups with a halterneck and padded cups.

the holy grail for swimwear snobs? a piece from american designer lisa marie Fernandez, whose edgy neoprene designs have made her a favourite with the glossies, including Vogue and harper’s Bazaar. Belted styles dominate her most recent collection, from rope drawstrings to kitschy D-ring clips in an array of bright colours.

one of her most popular designs is the Dree louise (£475, net-a-porter.com) which has a clever scarf-belt you wrap twice round your middle then knot to the side. Instant hourglass.

If the thought of spending £500 on swimming costume has you choking on your cornflakes, Debenhams has a similar style (above) that will cost less than your ryanair flights. Versatile, functional and fashionable. long live the belted swimsuit.