5 Swimwear Trends We’re Loving This Summer
Every summer, we look forward to hitting the beach or lounging by the pool in a brand new swimsuit. Of course, this means a shopping trip is in order — not to mention some knowledge of current trends. Just like in the streetwear fashion world, swimwear trends come and go. Last year, there was a whole lot of cutouts, crochet, and neon. But this year, the tides have changed, with a bevy of new standout styles. So, which trends should you keep an eye out for? We rounded up five of our favorites to keep in mind while swimsuit shopping.
Belts
Guess what? Belts aren’t just for jeans anymore. More and more designers are incorporating them into their swimsuits — on both one-pieces and bikinis. And luckily, there is a slew of different belt types to choose from. A chunky buckle belt on a two-piece has a bold, fashion-forward look, while a delicate drawstring belt with a tassel on a plunge-neck one-piece is understated and elegant yet still totally on-trend. You’ll also notice a lot of wrap ties at the waist, which are a fun accent because you can tie them in a variety of ways. The beauty of a belt is that it can draw attention to the smallest part of your torso (your waist), and even make it look a little narrower, too. In other words, this is a stellar trend for hourglass figures to take advantage of.
High-waisted bottoms
Curvy women, rejoice: super low-rise string bottoms are out, and high-waisted styles with thicker waistbands are in. With a retro kind of appeal, these bottoms are not only universally flattering, but they also offer a little extra coverage. We love a high-waisted bottom with an off-the-shoulder cap sleeve bikini top (also a big trend this season) or a vintage pinup-inspired balconette bra style top with underwire. Not only do high-waisted bottoms accentuate curves, but they can create the illusion of them around the hips and derriere on ladies with a more straight up and down athletic figure.
Related: How To Find The Most Flattering Swimsuit For Your Shape
Ruffles
It’s all in the details when it comes to swimwear, and what could possibly be sweeter than some ruffles? This accent has been popping up more and more over the last year on a range of pieces, and bathing suits are no exception. If you just want to take this trend for a test run, opt for a swimsuit that has just one purposeful ruffle along the waistband or neckline of the swimsuit. Or, you could go big with a one-piece that has numerous rows of dramatic asymmetrical ruffles. Whichever route you go, rest assured that frills will give you an instantly feminine and playful look, which is perfect for any summer occasion.
One-shoulder
It’s no secret that one-shoulder styles have been big this summer on everything from blouses and dresses to rompers and bodysuits. The one-shoulder look is also having a major swimsuit moment as well. This trend is one of our favorites because it’s timeless and effortlessly chic. Even the simplest solid color one-piece looks instantly eye-catching with just one shoulder strap. Meanwhile, a one-shoulder bikini has a subtly sultry look. The best part? You get to show a little shoulder without totally sacrificing both straps for support. Trust us, it’s worth the tan lines.
Sporty color blocking
Since athleisure has been a big trend this year, it makes sense that athletic-inspired styles become a major swimwear trend. Now add in color-blocking and you have a look that’s sporty yet also totally stylish. This season, we’re seeing a lot of green and blue combinations, as well as red with pink or orange. One of the major benefits of color-blocking is that you can use it to your advantage to highlight your assets. Keep in mind that dark colors recede to the background, while lighter colors come forward. So, if you’ve got wide hips and want to bring attention to your upper half, wear a bikini with brighter or lighter colors on top and darker hues on the bottom. Draw attention to your small waist with a one-piece that has a band in an eye-catching shade around the middle Or, if you have wide shoulders but feel great about your derriere/legs, try a swimsuit that’s darker on the top and brighter or lighter on the bottom.
Ready to make a splash this summer? Any of the aforementioned swimsuit trends should do the trick for getting you noticed, whether you’re lounging on a towel seaside or taking a dip on a rooftop pool.
Related: How To Buy A Supportive Swimsuit
