Antonio Melani One Piece Swimsuit

I still remember the moment I fell in love with Antonio Melani swimwear. It was during a particularly grueling shopping trip three summers ago, after trying on what felt like a hundred swimsuits that either pinched in all the wrong places or offered about as much support as a paper towel. Exhausted and ready to give up, I reluctantly tried on an Antonio Melani one-piece that a helpful sales associate had suggested. Looking in the mirror, I experienced that rare “this is the one” moment that most of us spend years searching for in swimwear.

Since that fateful day, I’ve become something of an Antonio Melani swimwear enthusiast (some might say obsessed). I’ve owned six different styles, scoured countless reviews, and even chatted with other devoted fans about their experiences. Today, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about finding the perfect Antonio Melani one-piece swimsuit that will make you feel confident, supported, and stylish for seasons to come.

Where to Find These Coveted One-Pieces

First things first: where can you actually purchase an Antonio Melani one-piece swimsuit? If you’re anything like me, you want options when making an investment purchase.

The primary retailer for Antonio Melani swimwear is Dillard’s, which makes sense since Antonio Melani is one of their exclusive brands. Their physical stores typically have a decent selection, especially during the spring and summer months, but I’ve found that their online inventory is much more comprehensive. The website usually features professional photos from multiple angles and detailed descriptions that help you visualize how the swimsuit might look on your body.

Beyond Dillard’s, you can occasionally find Antonio Melani swimwear on other platforms. I’ve spotted them on marketplace sites like Poshmark and ThredUP, which can be great options if you’re looking for a specific style from a previous season or hoping to score a discount on a gently used piece. Just be cautious about authenticity when shopping through these channels.

If you’re searching outside of the swimming season (November through February), inventory might be limited, but you can often find exceptional end-of-season deals. I once scored a gorgeous black one-piece with subtle gold hardware for nearly 60% off in late August—patience can definitely pay off!

Popular Designs That Have Stood the Test of Time

Over the years, I’ve noticed certain Antonio Melani one-piece designs that consistently sell out season after season, and for good reason.

The Shirred One-Piece with Sweetheart Neckline has been a staple in their collection for years. With its flattering ruching across the midsection and supportive bust design, it creates an hourglass silhouette that works beautifully on various body types. I own this style in a deep emerald green, and it never fails to earn compliments.

Their Asymmetrical One-Shoulder designs offer a modern, sophisticated look while providing surprisingly good support. These styles often feature strategic cutouts that show just enough skin to be interesting without sacrificing coverage where you want it.

For those who prefer a sportier look, the Cross-Back Athletic styles offer fantastic support for active beach days. I wore one of these during a beach volleyball game last summer and was amazed at how everything stayed perfectly in place, even during dives for the ball!

The Plunging V-Neck with Mesh Insets is another popular option that offers a daring look while still providing adequate coverage and support. The strategic placement of the mesh creates visual interest while also serving a practical purpose.

For a more retro-inspired look, their High-Neck Halter styles channel vintage glamour while offering modern comfort and support. These often feature beautiful back details that make walking away from the pool just as stunning as approaching it.

Understanding the Price Point: Is It Worth the Investment?

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: Antonio Melani swimwear isn’t exactly budget-friendly. Their one-piece swimsuits typically range from $89 to $159, depending on the design complexity, fabric technology, and seasonal positioning.

Is the higher price tag justified? After owning both budget swimwear and luxury pieces, I can honestly say that the quality and longevity of Antonio Melani swimwear makes them worth the investment for many shoppers. My first Antonio Melani one-piece is now entering its fourth summer and still looks nearly new, despite regular beach trips and pool days.

What you’re paying for is superior construction techniques, higher-quality fabrics, thoughtful design elements, and attention to detail. The seams are reinforced in high-stress areas, the elastic maintains its stretch over multiple seasons, and the colors resist fading even with regular sun exposure and chlorine contact.

If you’re still hesitant about the price point, keep an eye out for sales. Dillard’s typically offers significant markdowns on swimwear toward the end of summer, during holiday weekends, and during their famous New Year’s Day sale. I’ve purchased Antonio Melani one-pieces for as low as $45 during these promotions, which makes them comparable to mid-range brands while offering superior quality.

Sizing Mysteries Solved: Finding Your Perfect Fit

One of the most common questions I receive from friends considering Antonio Melani swimwear is about sizing. Is it true to size? Should you size up or down? Based on my experience and conversations with countless other wearers, the answer is nuanced.

Antonio Melani swimwear generally runs true to size compared to standard American sizing. However, there are some style-specific considerations to keep in mind. For styles with significant ruching or gathering, you might find your regular size offers a more compressive fit than expected. If you prefer a more relaxed feel, sizing up could be appropriate.

Conversely, styles with stretchy fabric panels or less structured elements might feel more generous in sizing. The brand’s athletic-inspired pieces often have more give than their fashion-forward designs.

My best advice? Always check the size chart for each specific style before purchasing. Antonio Melani provides detailed measurements for bust, waist, and hips for each size, which I’ve found to be remarkably accurate. When in doubt, compare these measurements to a swimsuit you already own and love.

If you’re shopping in a Dillard’s store, don’t hesitate to try multiple sizes. I typically wear a size 8 in most clothing, but I’ve found that some Antonio Melani styles fit me perfectly in a 6, while others work better in a 10, depending on the cut and fabric.

Inclusive Sizing: Options for Every Body

A critical consideration for many shoppers is whether Antonio Melani offers inclusive sizing for their one-piece swimsuits. The good news is that the brand has expanded their size range in recent years, now typically offering sizes from 4 to 16 in most styles.

Some of their most popular designs are also available in “slimming” options that extend the size range to 18 or 20. These designs often feature additional support elements and strategic draping that work beautifully for curvier figures.

For plus-size shoppers, the selection is more limited but still present. Dillard’s sometimes carries Antonio Melani swimwear in their plus-size department in sizes 1X-3X, though the style options may be more curated than in the standard size range.

If you’re at the upper or lower end of the size spectrum, I recommend shopping early in the season when inventory is at its fullest. The most inclusive sizes often sell out quickly, particularly in popular colorways and designs.

Fabric Technology: What Sets These Swimsuits Apart

The material composition of swimwear dramatically impacts how it feels, how it performs, and how long it lasts. Antonio Melani uses several high-performance fabrics in their one-piece designs, each with specific benefits.

Most of their swimsuits feature a nylon-spandex blend (typically around 80% nylon and 20% spandex), which provides excellent stretch, shape retention, and quick-drying properties. This blend feels substantial against the skin—not flimsy or thin like some less expensive options.

Their premium lines often incorporate microfiber nylon, which offers a luxuriously soft hand-feel while providing excellent coverage. I own a black one-piece made with this material, and it feels almost silky against the skin while maintaining opacity even when wet.

For their performance-oriented styles, Antonio Melani sometimes uses polyester-spandex blends with higher spandex content (up to 30%), offering exceptional shape retention and resistance to chlorine and sunscreen oils.

Some of their newer designs feature recycled nylon fibers, addressing environmental concerns while maintaining the brand’s quality standards. These eco-friendly options perform identically to their traditional counterparts in my experience.

The lining of Antonio Melani swimwear deserves special mention. Rather than using the same material for both the exterior and interior, they typically employ a softer, more breathable lining that prevents the uncomfortable sticking sensation that can occur with less thoughtfully designed swimwear.

Performance in the Water: Beyond Just Looking Good

A beautiful swimsuit that can’t actually handle swimming isn’t much use. Fortunately, Antonio Melani one-pieces are designed with real water activities in mind, not just poolside lounging.

For casual swimming and water play, any of their standard one-piece designs will perform admirably. The material stays in place, doesn’t become uncomfortably heavy when wet, and dries relatively quickly when you exit the water.

If you’re more serious about water sports or athletic swimming, I’d recommend their crossback or racerback designs specifically. The “Sport Collection” one-pieces offer exceptional support and range of motion for activities like beach volleyball, paddleboarding, or lap swimming. The straps stay securely in place even during vigorous movement, and the leg openings provide coverage without restricting movement.

For surfing or other board sports, their zip-front one-pieces with long sleeves offer excellent protection against board rash while providing the security of a one-piece design.

One impressive feature I’ve noticed across styles is that Antonio Melani swimwear doesn’t balloon or take on water the way some cheaper swimsuits can. The fabric maintains its close fit even after multiple dunks in the ocean or pool.

A Rainbow of Options: Color and Pattern Selection

One of the joys of shopping Antonio Melani swimwear is their thoughtful color palette. Rather than chasing fleeting trends, they tend to offer a mix of timeless neutrals and carefully selected seasonal colors that have staying power.

Their core collection typically includes:

• Classic black and navy (perfect for those who prioritize versatility)
• Rich jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, and burgundy
• Sophisticated neutrals including chocolate brown, olive, and cream
• Select pastels that complement a wide range of skin tones

Beyond solid colors, Antonio Melani offers a variety of prints and patterns that strike the perfect balance between interesting and wearable. Their floral prints tend to be elegant rather than cutesy, often featuring abstracted botanicals or vintage-inspired designs.

Other popular pattern options include:

• Subtle animal prints in unexpected color combinations
• Geometric patterns with art deco influences
• Watercolor-inspired prints that blend multiple complementary hues
• Classic maritime stripes and nautical motifs

What I appreciate most is that their patterns are typically scaled appropriately for the garment and placed thoughtfully to flatter the body. You won’t find awkwardly positioned large motifs or prints that draw attention to areas you’d rather not emphasize.

All-Day Comfort: The True Test of Quality Swimwear

Let’s be honest—many beautiful swimsuits become torture devices after a few hours of wear. Straps dig into shoulders, edges roll or bind, and you find yourself constantly adjusting and tugging.

One of the most remarkable qualities of Antonio Melani one-pieces is their exceptional comfort during extended wear. I’ve spent entire beach days (8+ hours) in mine without the desperate urge to change that I’ve experienced with other brands.

Several design elements contribute to this all-day wearability:

• Wider straps that distribute pressure more evenly across shoulders
• Soft-bound edges that don’t cut into skin
• Thoughtfully placed seams that avoid high-friction areas
• Sufficient coverage in the rear to prevent uncomfortable riding up
• Adequate bust support that doesn’t rely solely on uncomfortable compression

The fabric composition also plays a significant role in comfort. The substantial weight of their materials prevents the swimsuit from clinging uncomfortably when wet, while the high-quality elastic components provide gentle support without constriction.

If all-day comfort is your priority, I particularly recommend their wrap-style one-pieces and styles with adjustable features that allow you to customize the fit throughout the day.

Tummy Control Features: Supportive Without Suffocating

Many one-piece shoppers are looking for styles that offer some degree of tummy support or control. Antonio Melani offers various levels of tummy control across their different designs, allowing you to choose the amount of support that feels right for you.

Their most structured designs feature power mesh panels strategically placed in the midsection. These provide noticeable smoothing and support without the uncomfortable compression or “sausage casing” feeling that aggressive shapewear can create.

For more moderate support, many styles incorporate ruching or gathering across the midsection, which creates a visual slimming effect while allowing natural movement and comfort.

Even their designs without explicit tummy control features tend to offer more support than average, thanks to quality lining and substantial fabric weight. The material itself provides gentle compression that smooths without squeezing.

What impresses me most is how the tummy control elements are integrated into the overall design, rather than appearing as obvious “control panels.” The support feels like a natural part of the garment rather than a correction.

Durability Against Chlorine and Environmental Factors

If you’re investing in a quality swimsuit, you want it to withstand the harsh conditions it will inevitably face—chlorine, salt water, sunscreen, hot tubs, and more.

Antonio Melani one-pieces offer impressive resilience against chlorine damage. While no swimsuit is completely immune to chlorine effects with frequent exposure, their higher spandex content and quality dyeing processes help them maintain elasticity and color longer than many competitors.

For those who swim primarily in chlorinated pools, I recommend their darker colors or patterns, which show chemical damage less readily than lighter shades. Their black swimsuits, in particular, have impressive staying power even with regular pool use.

Salt water tends to be less damaging than chlorine, but the combination of salt, sun, and sand can still take a toll. The tightly woven nature of Antonio Melani fabrics helps prevent sand from becoming embedded in the material, while the color-fast dyes resist fading from sun and salt exposure.

If you’re planning on frequent hot tub use, be aware that the extremely hot, heavily treated water in most hot tubs is particularly hard on all swimwear. I recommend having a separate “hot tub swimsuit” if you’re a frequent soaker, regardless of brand.

Care and Maintenance: Extending the Life of Your Investment

With proper care, an Antonio Melani one-piece can remain in excellent condition for multiple seasons. Based on my experience, here’s the optimal care routine:

1. Rinse immediately after wear, even if you haven’t been in water. Body oils, sunscreen, and environmental pollutants can all damage swimwear fabric over time.
2. Hand wash with gentle detergent designed for delicates or swimwear. Regular laundry detergent can be too harsh and may break down the elastic fibers.
3. Avoid wringing or twisting the swimsuit to remove excess water. Instead, gently press between clean towels.
4. Air dry away from direct sunlight. UV rays can fade colors and degrade spandex over time.
5. Store flat or hanging rather than folded, which can create permanent creases in the fabric.

If machine washing is absolutely necessary, use a mesh laundry bag, select the delicate cycle with cold water, and avoid adding other clothing items that could snag the swimsuit fabric.

For stains (like sunscreen marks or oil spots), try a paste of baking soda and water applied directly to the stain, allowed to sit for 30 minutes, then gently rinsed out. This method has saved several of my swimsuits from seemingly permanent marks.

Finding Deals: How to Score Antonio Melani for Less

While the regular price of Antonio Melani swimwear reflects its quality, there are several strategies for finding these coveted one-pieces at more affordable price points.

End-of-season sales are perhaps the most reliable opportunity. Dillard’s typically reduces swimwear prices significantly in August and September, often offering 30-50% off original prices as they clear inventory for fall merchandise.

Dillard’s New Year’s Day Sale is legendary among savvy shoppers. While swimwear selection may be limited during winter months, the discounts can be exceptional—often an additional percentage off already-reduced prices.

Weekend sales events throughout summer often include swimwear departments. Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day sales frequently feature swimwear promotions.

If you have a Dillard’s credit card, watch for cardholder-exclusive shopping events that offer extra discounts or rewards points on purchases.

For those comfortable with pre-owned items, consignment platforms like Poshmark, Mercari, and ThredUP regularly list Antonio Melani swimwear at significant discounts. Since the quality construction means these pieces often remain in excellent condition even after some use, this can be a sustainable and budget-friendly option.

Support Structure: Padding and Underwire Options

Bust support is a crucial feature for many one-piece swimsuit shoppers, and Antonio Melani offers various options to suit different preferences and needs.

Many of their styles feature removable push-up padding inserted into lined bust cups. These pads provide shape and modest enhancement while allowing you to remove them for washing or if you prefer a more natural look.

For those seeking more substantial support, several styles incorporate underwire construction similar to that found in quality bras. The underwire is typically covered with sufficient padding and fabric to prevent digging or discomfort, even during active water sports.

Some of their bandeau-style one-pieces include boning in the side seams for additional structure and support, helping the suit stay in place without constant adjustment.

For those who prefer wireless options but still need substantial support, look for their compression panel designs that use strategic doubling of fabric and carefully engineered seaming to lift and separate without rigid structures.

The beauty of Antonio Melani’s approach to bust support is that it’s integrated seamlessly into the overall design aesthetic. The supportive elements don’t look clinical or obvious but instead contribute to the swimsuit’s elegant silhouette.

Flattering Fits for Curvy Body Types

Finding a truly flattering one-piece swimsuit can be particularly challenging for curvy figures, but Antonio Melani offers several designs that work beautifully for various body types.

Their wrap-style one-pieces create a flattering V-neckline while defining the waist and providing adjustable coverage. These styles work particularly well for hourglass figures and those with larger busts.

For pear-shaped bodies, their high-neck halter designs draw attention upward while the slightly higher-cut leg openings create balance. The adjustable neck ties allow for customized lift and support.

Apple-shaped figures often find success with their empire-waist designs that define the area just below the bust while skimming over the midsection. The strategic ruching on these styles provides camouflage without bulk.

For those with athletic builds seeking to create more curves, Antonio Melani’s color-blocked designs use visual tricks to create the illusion of a more defined waist and curvier silhouette.

Regardless of body type, adjustable features are your friend in achieving the perfect fit. Look for styles with adjustable straps, tie closures, or stretchy smocked sections that can accommodate your unique proportions.

How Antonio Melani Compares to Other Luxury Swimwear

Having tried numerous swimwear brands across various price points, I can offer some perspective on how Antonio Melani compares to other options in the luxury swimwear market.

Compared to designer labels like Tory Burch or Michael Kors, Antonio Melani offers comparable quality at a lower price point. The construction techniques and material quality are on par, but without the significant markup that often comes with a famous designer name.

When compared to other department store exclusive brands like INC International Concepts or Lauren Ralph Lauren, Antonio Melani typically offers superior construction details and more thoughtful design elements that justify the slightly higher price.

Against dedicated swimwear specialists like Miraclesuit or La Blanca, Antonio Melani holds its own in terms of fabric quality and style, though specialized brands sometimes offer more technical features for specific needs like competitive swimming or maximum shaping.

Where Antonio Melani truly shines is in offering a balance of fashion-forward design, practical wearability, and quality construction at a price point that, while premium, doesn’t venture into the truly astronomical territory of some luxury swimwear brands that can exceed $300-400 for a one-piece.

Versatility: From Beach to Street Style

One unexpected benefit of Antonio Melani one-pieces is their versatility beyond the pool or beach. Many of their designs can easily double as bodysuits for everyday wear, creating an elegant transitional piece for vacation packing or summer evenings.

Their solid-colored one-pieces, particularly in black, navy, or deep jewel tones, work beautifully under high-waisted skirts or wide-leg pants for a sophisticated evening look. The quality construction means they provide smoothing and support similar to a bodysuit but with more interesting necklines and details.

For festival season or casual beach-to-bar transitions, their printed one-pieces can be paired with denim shorts or breezy cover-up pants. The thoughtful coverage in their designs means you’ll feel appropriately dressed even away from the water.

Several styles feature embellishments like metal hardware, lacing details, or textured fabrics that elevate them beyond basic swimwear, making them perfect candidates for creative styling beyond the beach.

If you’re planning to use your Antonio Melani one-piece as a bodysuit, I recommend choosing styles with conventional strap placements rather than their more creative back designs, which might be visible under regular clothing in less intentional ways.

The Importance of Adjustable Features

One design element that separates quality swimwear from basic options is the inclusion of adjustable features that allow for a customized fit. Antonio Melani excels in this area, offering various adjustment options across their one-piece collection.

Many styles feature fully adjustable shoulder straps similar to those found on quality bras, allowing you to customize the lift and position to suit your torso length and support needs.

Their halter-neck designs typically include tie closures at both the neck and mid-back, providing multiple adjustment points to balance comfort and support.

Some styles incorporate side ties or ruching that can be adjusted to provide more or less coverage and control over how the swimsuit sits on your hips and waist.

For those concerned about bust support, look for styles with adjustable band features under the bust, which provide additional customization for the perfect fit.

These adjustable elements are particularly valuable if you have a figure that doesn’t perfectly match standard sizing proportions—for example, if you’re petite with a larger bust, or tall with a smaller ribcage. The ability to customize at multiple points means you’re more likely to achieve a comfortable, flattering fit without alterations.

Customer Experiences: What the Reviews Reveal

Before investing in any swimwear, it’s wise to research what other customers have experienced. I’ve spent hours combing through Antonio Melani swimwear reviews, and several consistent themes emerge.

Positive feedback frequently mentions:

• Exceptional durability compared to less expensive brands
• Flattering cut and design that works for various body types
• Substantial fabric quality that provides confidence and comfort
• Consistent sizing across different styles
• Effective support features for larger busts
• Long-lasting color retention even with regular use

The most common critiques center around:

• Limited availability of extended sizing in some styles
• Higher price point compared to mass-market brands
• Fewer options in very bright or trendy colors
• Some styles running slightly small in the hips

What’s particularly telling is the number of repeat customers who mention owning multiple Antonio Melani swimsuits. Once shoppers try the brand, they often return for additional pieces in different styles or colors, indicating strong satisfaction with their initial purchase.

Professional reviewers and fashion bloggers frequently praise the brand for hitting the sweet spot between fashion-forward design and practical wearability—creating swimwear that photographs beautifully but also functions effectively for actual swimming and beach activities.

Conclusion: Is an Antonio Melani One-Piece Right for You?

After diving deep into every aspect of Antonio Melani one-piece swimwear, the question remains: is this brand worth the investment for you personally?

Based on my experience and research, Antonio Melani one-pieces are ideal for shoppers who:

• Value quality construction and durability over trend-chasing
• Are willing to invest more upfront for swimwear that will last multiple seasons
• Prioritize support and coverage without sacrificing style
• Appreciate thoughtful design details and quality fabrics
• Want versatile pieces that can transition from pool to casual settings

You might want to explore other options if you:

• Need specialized athletic performance features for competitive swimming
• Prefer ultra-trendy designs that change each season
• Require extended sizing beyond what Antonio Melani typically offers
• Are working with a limited swimwear budget

For me, the decision to invest in Antonio Melani swimwear has been validated season after season as my pieces continue to look and perform beautifully while other brands in my drawer have faded, stretched, or been relegated to the donation pile.

Finding the perfect one-piece swimsuit is a deeply personal journey, but I hope this comprehensive guide helps you determine whether Antonio Melani might be the destination for your search. Whatever you choose, remember that the best swimsuit is ultimately the one that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to create sun-soaked memories.