Welcome to high summer. By this time, your outfit rotation probably looks something like denim cutoffs, simple tank tops, and bikinis—lots of bikinis. When you’re beelining to the nearest pool in sight, heading out for a beach day, or even getting some sun on your roof, you’re probably reaching for a swimsuit several times a week right now. That’s why we’re here to ensure your collection is as up-to-date as possible.
Curious as to which swim trends aren’t popping as much this summer? I did some digging into what everyone is wearing and shopping for this season, and I’ve noticed a few swim styles that were missing in action—well, seven to be exact. While I’m not saying these are completely cut and you should ditch them immediately, I’m simply pointing out what I’m seeing much less of and what is bubbling up in their places.
Let’s face it. Swimsuits are the backbone of our summer wardrobes, so if you haven’t found your ideal style (or two or three) yet, there’s no time like the present. Ahead, see which swim trends I’m not seeing anywhere and shop the styles I plan to wear all season long instead.
POV: It’s the summer of 2020, and everyone is wearing wraparound bikini tops. While we couldn’t escape the trend just a few short summers ago, it seems the midriff-floss look has significantly died down and is now being replaced by an equally pretty but easier-to-wear style—tie-front bikinis. I love this trend because it’s so easy to pull off with any triangle top you already own, but the front ties add an interesting element to an otherwise simple style.
Shop the matching Cheeky Bikini Bottom ($107).
Shop the matching Sparkle Tiny Ties Bottoms ($59).
If you’re a person on the internet in any capacity, you’ve definitely noticed the rise in rosette details. They’re impossible to escape whether it’s via a dress or pair of heels, but especially when it comes to swimwear. Magda Butrym and Same are behind some of the most sought-after styles, but the pretty details can be found at nearly every retailer right now. I’ve noticed that these eye-catching suits are taking the place of kitschy tie-dye prints.
Shop the matching Rose 90s Bottoms ($140).
Pretty details are clearly a huge theme in swimwear this summer with the rise of not just rosettes but also delicate lingerie-inspired styles. Scalloped edges and mini bows are just some of the sweet details that make these suits feel special. While cutouts are still hanging around, they aren’t the defining silhouettes of the summer anymore.
Shop the matching Gathered Bikini Bottoms ($59).
In lieu of loud checkerboard prints, celebs and the fashion set are returning to a perennial-favorite print, vintage florals. Kendall Jenner’s underwire style comes via celeb-adored label Heavy Manners, but the soft, romantic vibe of her bikini isn’t hard to find elsewhere.
Shop the matching Noemi Bikini Bottoms ($90).
Shop the matching Classic Floral Bikini Bottoms ($30).
Is it really summer 2023 if we’re not mentioning Barbiecore? The influence of the Barbie movie’s release this summer can be felt in every corner of our closets, and yes, that means swimwear is getting a bright-pink makeover too. Think super-saturated shades of fuchsia and bubblegum pink and classic cuts. With the rise of this aesthetic, I can’t help but notice that cottagecore swimsuits aren’t quite as popular this summer.
Shop the matching Brazilian Bikini Bottoms ($18).
With the exception of the Barbie-pink hues we just discussed above, highlighter hues like neon green and orange have virtually disappeared from the swimwear collections of the fashion set. Instead, they’re favoring chic contrast-trim styles that are giving major ’90s nostalgia.
There’s an undercurrent of retro appeal right now with the soft florals and contrast trim I mentioned here, and swim shorts are the next style I’m adding to that running list. While I was surprised to see them bubble up again, there’s no denying how cool they are.
