Beach to brunch, and beyond: Must-have swimwear and beach coverups

5 February 2025
By Paris Lloyd-Beere

Swimwear is no longer a function-first commodity. Here we guide you through this season’s trends to adopt and pieces to shop.

Image: Peony Swim.
Image: Peony Swim.

Gone are the days where swimwear was anything less than a fashion statement. From patterned one-pieces, co-ordinated cotton cover ups, and multi-functional ‘beach to brunch’ ensembles— this summer’s offering has got you covered. 

4 swimwear trends to adopt now

Trend: A nod to eras bygone

This season we’re seeing an increase in 1950’s mod-inspired two-piece short and top combos gracing our feeds. Polkadots are working their way back in and boyfriend-cut shorts are getting more and more chic by the day. 

References: Australian designers Peony and Zulu & Zephyr channel this perfectly, so too does Maggie Marilyn’s annual collaboration with Fella Swim which has a distinct nostalgic charm to it.

Peony 'Keepsake Crop', $120 AUD and 'Quintessential Short', $140 AUD
Peony 'Keepsake Crop', $120 AUD and 'Quintessential Short', $140 AUD
Zulu & Zephyr balconette top and boy short, both $150 AUD each.
Zulu & Zephyr balconette top and boy short, both $150 AUD each.
FELLA x Maggie Marilyn Andre Full Piece, $270
FELLA x Maggie Marilyn 'Andre Full Piece', $270

Trend: One-pieces for the win

Another stand out star is the much-loved all-in-one swimsuit. One-piece options have moved away from the ‘one cut fits all’ mentality of the past, now offering a wide variety of styles to choose from. Low-cut, high-cut, cut-outs, back-less – you name it. 

References: Peony, Form and Fold (D+), Faithfull the Brand, and more. 

Peony ‘Seychelles Scoop One-Piece’, $168 AUD
Peony ‘Seychelles Scoop One-Piece’, $168 AUD
Marysia seersucker swimsuit, $877 from Net-a-porter
Marysia seersucker swimsuit, approx. $878 from Net-a-porter
Faithfull the Brand ‘Ola One Piece’, $92 AUD
Faithfull the Brand ‘Ola One Piece’, $92 AUD

Trend: Statement cover-ups

Once reserved for the over 50s, cover-ups are now considered the height of sophistication at any age. Once you’ve landed on your choice of swimwear, you can explore what to team them with for the ultimate transitional solution. Flowy forms are the inevitable go-to  when you’re looking to create some modesty from your form-fitting swimwear. Plus, they add another layer of defence against unwanted sun exposure. 

References: Kowtow and Ranaco Atelier both fit the bill. The former offers a range of organic cotton pieces, such as their Isabel Shirt or Cove Skirt, while the latter is all about pure-silks and crotchets, perfect for layering or baring-all. 

Kowtow ‘Cove Skirt’, $124
Kowtow ‘Cove Skirt’, $124
Ronaco Front Tie Blouse, $180 USD
Ronaco Front Tie Blouse, approx. $315
CAMILLA AND MARC ‘Dover V Neck Dress’, $380
CAMILLA AND MARC ‘Dover V Neck Dress’, $380

Trend: The signature carry-all 

Last but not least, every beach or pool goer needs a practical bag that embraces both form and function. Whether you’re diving into New Zealand oceans, or exploring coastlines further afield this summer, harmonise your style with all the natural beauty the shores have to offer.

References: Wynn Hamlyn has launched a first-of-its-kind beach bag collab with the Know Agency. With two colourways ( black/red and black/blue) and beading trim, what more could you need to complete your beach-ready wardrobe? 

Wynn Hamlyn ‘Woven Beaded Bag’, $250
Wynn Hamlyn ‘Woven Beaded Bag’, $250
Tekla Beach Bag, $440 from Simon James Store
Tekla Beach Bag, $440 from Simon James Store
Stitchwallah ‘Dariwallah Stripe Bag’, $59 from Everyday Needs
Stitchwallah ‘Dariwallah Stripe Bag’, $59 from Everyday Needs

Words: Paris Lloyd-Beere
Images: Supplied

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