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Instant Classic: Pinup Suits

Retro-shaped swimwear shows its sea legs once again.

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Marilyn Monroe in 1953

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From Here to Eternity: Retro-shaped swimwear shows its legs once again

Move over, itsy-bitsy bikini — a more modest maillot is back. Inspired by pinups like Liz Taylor and Marilyn, full-coverage, curve-flaunting, bombshell beachwear has been spotted everywhere, from Katy Perry's album covers to the spring runways. (See Prada's embroidered bodysuits and Dolce & Gabbana's eggplant bustiers.)

Marilyn Monroe, 1953

Video: 5 sexy swimsuits for summer >

Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.

1 of 10 Photo: 20th Century Fox, Courtesy Neal Peters Collection

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Elizabeth Taylor in 1950

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Whether high-waisted or soft-hued, for poolside lounging or urban layering, these ladylike sets leave a little to the imagination. And in an age of zealous sun protection, covering up has never looked so good.

Elizabeth Taylor, 1950

Video: Here's the secret to a hot beach body! >

2 of 10 Photo: MGM, Courtesy Neal Peters Collection

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A blue 2-piece swimsuit

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Bikini, $330, Lover; loverthelabel.com.

Video: Keep your swimsuit looking new >

3 of 10 Photo: Stuart Tyson, Studio D

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A bold patterned swimsuit

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Bodysuit, $1,245, Dolce & Gabbana; (877) 70-DGUSA.

Video: Find the perfect swimsuit >

4 of 10 Photo: Stuart Tyson, Studio D

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A bright yellow swimsuit

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Top, $300, bottoms, $150, Jill Stuart; (212) 343-2300.

5 of 10 Photo: Stuart Tyson, Studio D

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A green printed one-piece bathing suit

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Bodysuit, price upon request, Prada; prada.com for stores.

6 of 10 Stuart Tyson/Studio D

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A white and blue one-piece bathing suit

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Bustier, $995, Vera Wang; net-a-porter.com.

7 of 10 Photo: Stuart Tyson, Studio D

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A pink and white one-piece swimsuit

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Bodysuit, price upon request, Rochas; barneys.com.

8 of 10 Stuart Tyson/Studio D

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