You wait so long for swim season to arrive—or, at the very least, to be able to go somewhere that requires a swimsuit. You spend so much time scouring the market for that perfect one-piece or bikini. And yet, most likely, you'll only end up wearing it a handful of times this summer. More and more, though, we're seeing swim styles that are, yes, first and foremost functional, but also lend themselves to everyday wear, with pieces already in your closet.

Ahead, you'll find nine outfits that illustrate the tips, and offer some fresh inspiration—and motivation—for wearing your favorite summer suit off the beach. There are a few styling tidbits that translate pretty much across the board. First: Combine a patterned swimsuit with a solid bottom, or vice versa, so that the graphic really stands out. Also, play with proportion—if your swimsuit of choice has a low-cut neckline, find a high-waisted bottom to balance it out; if it features ruffles, pair it with pieces that are more fitted, so that those details are highlighted in the silhouette.

Cheers to making the most out of your seasonal wardrobe.