We have done the hard work for you so finding a bikini is easier than ever this summer, with a style to suit everyone.
Just as we head into the last “work” week of the year, or finish up the last few assignments and cross those deadlines, the prospect of a summer holiday is more exciting than ever. But sometimes, finding the perfect pair of togs for the season can prove difficult, especially when doing the last minute dash before heading away to the beach or the bach.
So whether you like a sporty style, a little animal print or something eco-conscious, we have put together our top swimwear picks of the season.
1. Go retro with towelling
Zulu and Zephyr is best known for its sun-bleached colour palette and ’70s inspired swimwear shapes. This summer, the Australian brand has added a touch of terry towelling into the mix. We all remember the iconic shots of Farrah Fawcett in her towelling shorts and the original Charlie’s Angels in their high rise bikinis but the towelling trend has dropped in and out of the fashion radar throughout the ’90s and naughties. These retro ZZ towelling pieces have gone straight onto our swimwear must-have list… and did we mention you can get a matching bucket hat? Yes, please!
Our top pick: Zulu & Zephyr bikini top, AU$80.
2. Wild about animal print
It is safe to say 2019 was the year we all got a little wild and welcomed animal prints into our hearts and wardrobes. With leopard print being a fan-favourite for maximalist dressing, it seems as though swimwear brands have also taken a walk on the wild side. If you’re feeling a little apprehensive toward a jungle-inspired print, we suggest opting for a more classic cut for a pared back beachwear look.
Our top pick: The Upside one-piece, US$169, from Net-A-Porter.
3. Sporty spice
If you’re more inclined to get out and active during the summer then finding swimwear that’s the right balance of sporty and chic can sometimes prove to be a little more difficult. But practicality doesn’t need to give way to style with on-trend wetsuit-inspired bikinis and racy one-pieces on offer this season. P.E Nation perfectly combines fashion and sportswear and this year the brand has teamed up with Speedo to create the ultimate practical-cool swimwear so you can hit the waves in style.
Our top pick: P.E Nation x Speedo paddlesuit, $155.
4. Metallic glamour
Most of us will boast being minimalists at heart but deep down I think we can all agree on the sheer joy and pleasure we get out of a little glitter and sparkle, especially in the context of our wardrobes. The latest swimwear trend can provide just that – move over neutral bikinis and hello metallic jewel tones!
Our top pick: Mikoh bikini top and bottoms, US$122 each, from Shopbop.
5. Friend of the earth
With a global shift in thinking around how we are consuming and buying our fashion, many swimwear labels are taking a greener approach in producing their garments. Kiwi label Kowtow released its first swimwear line in 2018 and the team has continued to develop their ethos by creating togs using nylon made from collected rubbish and plastic from our oceans. Much like the building block and mainline collections, Kowtow’s approach to swimwear is comfortable and practical with a luxe finish.
Our top pick: Kowtow one-piece, $249.
