Banish all thoughts of unflattering, dull one-pieces as those days are over. The swimsuit is a super flattering, chic option which is just as commonplace on Instagram as a statement bikini, and less faff than having to try and figure out the often-confusing bikini sizing conundrum.
When is the best time to buy swimwear?
Top tip: The best time to start looking at what you want to wear on your summer holidays is NOW. Stores have already begun dropping their early releases and there is nothing worse than leaving it until the last minute and frantically running around trying to find something three days before your flight. Or worse, doing a duty-free supermarket-sweep-style dash. No ladies, you deserve more than this.
Whilst parading around in minimal clothing, you want to feel the absolute best you can, so make sure you leave enough time to source something you love that’s going to make you feel amazing.
Here are the best starting points:
Read more on summer fashion:
- The best Hunza G swimsuit and bikini dupes on the high street now
- The best Skims swimwear dupes to buy for your summer holiday
- Summer dressing 101: what to wear to a BBQ
- The sandal styles we’re loving for summer and where to buy them
The ribbed swimsuit
The ribbed one-piece has been making waves on the swimwear scene for a few seasons now. It’s both functional and fashionable as the thicker material is great for sucking you in and allowing for actual activity, and not just hours of lounging.
Hunza G has really owned the stretchy trend for years, but there are a ton of high street options. A high-cut leg makes for a super flattering shape and will make even the shortest of us feel as though we have legs for days.
H&M does great ribbed options that feel good enough to be worn with a pair of denim shorts and sandals for an afternoon sightseeing, as well as by the pool.
The best ribbed swimsuits
The cut-out swimsuit
Is this the answer to all your beach-related fashion prayers? Not quite a bikini but also not quite a swimsuit, the cut-out suit is ideal for those of us gals who just can’t make up our minds.
Look for styles that have cut-outs in the most flattering parts of your body to really give you a super-sexy silhouette: think collarbones and the top of your stomach. My only advice? Be liberal with your sunscreen application, or expect some pretty wild tan lines.
The best cut-out swimsuits
The halter neck swimsuit
Great for the bigger busted ladies amongst us, a halter neck is a winner on the beach. It’s great for when you feel like the girls need to be hoisted up and in the right place, particularly when you’re sunbathing.
It doubles nicely as a top, too – just pair with high-waisted linen trousers and a giant sun hat for a chic post-swim lunchtime look.
The best halter neck swimsuits
The sporty swimsuit
I’m sure a grey Speedo number circa 1998 first sprung to mind, but The New Sporty styles are a lot more sleek. Think minimal, classic, functional, Scandi and, mostly, chic. Opt for something with a low back, thick straps and flattering cut on the leg to add a feminine touch.
Arket excels at this vibe: minimal styles in neutrals hues with a functional twist.
The sustainable swimsuit
Unless you are amongst the very lucky, your beachwear might not be the most worn item in your wardrobe. If only saved for warmer months, or better yet the delight of a holiday, then in fact there may only be five to ten days of the year that this portion of your wardrobe gets a look in, so it’s a great opportunity to be mindful with your purchases.
There are a ton of brands, at various price points offering eco-friendly options. Stay Wild is a gorgeous brand that uses unwanted waste such as fishing nets to produce their collection of bikinis and bathing suits.
The best sustainable swimsuits
The colour pop swimsuit
I can think of no better time than by the pool or at the beach to introduce pops of colour to your outfit, and even the most neutral lovers among us spring for colour when they leave home soil.
There are so many amazing colour-block options in the swimwear department, but cobalt blue and fuchsia look great against all skin tones and hair colours.
The best colourful swimsuits
;
