Your Guide to the Chicest Swim Trends of the Season

The moment we’ve all been waiting for has finally (almost) arrived: swimsuit season. If you haven’t planned your summer vacay yet—don’t worry; we haven’t either—it’s time to get your summer wardrobe ready, starting with your swimwear. Think Caribbean beaches, Mediterranean sunsets, poolside sips, lakeside lounging, and the perfect bikini or one-piece to enjoy it all in.
If you’re not already convinced, maybe a peek inside the hottest swim trends of the summer will help you choose your adventure. No matter your style or aesthetic, you can easily translate your own tastes to swimwear for the nearest body of water. From the runways to our favorite brands, we’ve rounded up the best swimsuits to shop now. Romanticize away!
Nautical or Nice: StripesWhether nautical, preppy, or artistic, stripes are gaining popularity in fashion this season. From Dior to Duran Lantink, the runways were overrun with stripes, and now you get to translate that into your swimwear.
Metallic swimsuits are one thing—and not for the timid, might I add. But a subtler take on summer metal can be modern and elegant. Metal accents like chains, buckles, or brooch-like embellishments can elevate otherwise simple silhouettes or color schemes. Pair with metallic sandals and jewelry to add a bit more pizzazz, if you need.
On the Prowl: Animal PrintIf you thought winter was a big season for animal print, get ready to see it even more in the summer. Leopard and zebra prints are classic choices, but for something a little edgier, you can also opt for tiger or snake print for something a little edgier.
’90s Classic: Black & WhiteUltra-chic and ultra-’90s, black and white swimsuits will never go out of style. No matter the silhouette, black and white is universally flattering and timeless.
Tan Lines: Created ShapesCutout swimsuits aren’t going anywhere—why should they? With these fun and edgy silhouettes, you can truly choose whichever shape you want this summer. Whether you prefer clean, balanced cutouts or an asymmetrical wrap silhouette, just remember to reapply your sunscreen.
Summer Romance: Rosette RenaissanceWe saw rosettes everywhere in swim and ready-to-wear several years ago, thanks in large part to Magda Butrym’s feminine aesthetic. Now, they’re making a comeback just in time for a summer to be lived through rose-colored glasses.
Unexpected Shades: Jewel TonesDarker shades are surprisingly trendy for summer—especially burgundy, according to @databutmakeitfashion. But really, jewel tones are flattering on every skin tone, so there’s no pressure to get that perfect summer tan quite yet.
Cute & Country: GinghamBella Hadid’s cowgirl era might be to thank for this trend, but even if you’re more beach babe or city dweller than farm girl, you can find a chic, modern option to take you anywhere there’s a bit of sunshine.
Why Trust ELLEEvery product featured on ELLE.com is independently researched, tested, or editor-approved. We only recommend products that we stand behind, and the merchandise featured on our site is always driven by editorial and product testing standards, not by affiliate deals or advertising relationships. Any content created in partnership with advertisers is marked as such.
elle