Bikinis are always high on the agenda, but never more so than in early summer. Whether you’ve been savvy enough to secure a weekend break at a quaint spa hotel in the Cotswolds, or you’re jetting off to climes that are altogether more ~sunny~ (and staying at one of the best hotels in Mallorca, the Maldives or on the Amalfi Coast), there’s only one thing more important than your summer dress and face sunscreen. And that’s one of the best bikinis.
What exactly deems a bikini the “best” in the world on swimwear? A daily peruse through the best swimwear brands (read: Frankie’s Bikinis, & Other Stories and Free People) – and intel straight from the spring/summer catwalks – shows that high-leg and high-waisted bikini silhouettes still reign supreme. Elsewhere, fanciful, feminine embellishments like ruffles, ditsy florals and 3D waist ties come approved by the likes of Johanna Ortiz and Lisa Marie Fernandez. Oh, and pink. Bright, bold pink of Barbie fame is big on the best bikinis of the season (make a beeline for Free People’s Swim line for a carnival of the colour).
When it comes to fabrics, crinkle swimwear à la Hunza G and Arket is continuing to prove popular in 2023, while influencers are channelling their ‘it gir’ status in glittery bikinis by Reina Olga, going knitted with Missoni or opting for ombre with Zara. And, lest we leave out the bikini brands who are making a conscious effort to be less negatively impactful on the planet. Faithfull The Brand and Away That Day, we’re looking at you and your ECONYL materials.
It’s official: ditching your slightly saggy, faded old bikini in favour of an on trend two-piece is a guaranteed mood-booster, even without any dreamy #vacay plans secured for 2023. So cast your eyes over this lot.
Best bikini brands: quick links
After more swimwear content? We’ve got one-piece swimsuits, tummy control swimsuits, bikinis for small chests and cup sizes, bikinis for big boobs/fuller busts, red swimsuits, maternity swimwear and period swimwear. Elsewhere, shop full coverage bikini bottoms, sunglasses, beach bags, beach towels and beach cover-ups.