If the recent bout of dopamine inducing weather has had you dreaming of your next summer holiday, you’re most likely already making a checklist of all the things you need to buy in preparation. High on that list, alongside beach bags and sunglasses, is most probably swimwear, as it’s a summer staple whether you’re heading somewhere exotic, enjoying a UK staycation or just planning to sun yourself in your garden on your precious days off work.
If you’ve been keeping track of this season’s biggest swimwear trends, you’ll already know that the swimsuit is big news this summer, coming in endless iterations, from belted designs to chic two-tone colourways, meaning there is a swimsuit to suit all styles. And while I’ll most definitely argue everyone can and should feel confident in whatever style of swimwear they opt for, there is something about a swimsuit that not only has you feeling your best but is ultra-flattering too.
With that in mind, I’ve compiled an edit of the 5 most flattering swimsuit styles that are trending right now. So without further ado…
1. Optical illusion
Monochromatic swimsuits are a huge trend this season and they’re ideal if you’re looking for a flattering swimsuit that still offers plenty of coverage. Depending on the areas of light or dark fabric, they can draw attention or give the impression of a more revealing cut, or, to give the illusion of an hourglass figure, why not try a clever printed style.
Away That Day’s monochrome suit gives the illusion of a 90’s high leg cut without compromising on coverage.
Massimo Dutti Printed Swimsuit with Criss-Cross Back
The clever placement of animal print stripes on this swimsuit will give the illusion of a nipped in waist.
Bondi Born Goldie Colourblock Swimsuit
Elongate your frame with Bondi Born’s cleaver colour block swimsuit.
Alexandra Miro Whitney Belted Swimsuit
The Whitney is one of Alexandra Miro’s signature swimsuits that sells out time after . The framing of the torso with the contrast of white creates a super flattering silhouette.
Lisa Marie Fernandez Cutout two-tone stretch-crepe halterneck swimsuit
Proof the cut out trend has made it’s way into swimwear too.
2. Belted
With a vintage inspired feel, there’s something eternally stylish about a belted swimsuit. The great thing about these is they nip in your waist, adding definition for a flattering silhouette. If you opt for one of these, lean into the nostalgia with a fun colour way or vintage print.
Paolita Sanremo Athena One Piece
The contrast colour way take this belted swimsuit to the next level.
Eres Twist Majorette belted strapless swimsuit
Eres’ belted suit proves simplicity can still make a big impact.
John Lewis Hello Sailor Stripe Belted Swimsuit
From boat shoes to summer stripes, nautical style is trending so tap into it with this stripe swimsuit.
Evarae Belted Cassandra Swimsuit
Evarae’s Cassandra swimsuit features a removable belt, flattering square neckline and invisible cups for added support.
For a more subtle take on the belted trend, try this classic black tie up style from Max Mara.
3. Sculpting
(Image credit: @vivianhoorn)
For the ultimate in figure flattering, you need a sculpting swimsuit. While these have definitely got a bad rep in the past, this season sculpting swimsuits are much more trend led with bold colours and chic prints making an appearance. Plus, if you don’t want anything too obvious, there are even concealed sculpting styles, like Talia Collins The Hold Up, which is made from contouring lycra for a more understated look.
Next Tummy Shaping Control Bandeau Swimsuit
With camouflaging ruching, Next’s orange swimsuit will look incredibly flattering.
Karla Colletto Ruched swimsuit
Sculpt and smooth your shape with Karla Colletto’s clever wrap swimsuit.
Zimmermann Junie cutout ruched floral-print swimsuit
Sculpting swimsuits don’t mean you need to keep it simple when it comes to print. This boho swimsuit offers both.
M&S Tummy Control Textured Bandeau Swimsuit
Available in three shades, M&S’ textured swimsuit includes removable straps and padding as well as tummy control technology.
Talia Collins The Hold-Up Swimsuit
Designed to sculpt and contour the body, Talia Collins’ Hold-Up swimsuit is chic and sophisticated.
4. Underwired
Whether you’ve got a bigger bust or just want the extra lift, an underwired swimsuit will ensure you feel supported. This season, many brands aren’t just including underwire for practical reasons, they’re working it into the design as a chic style feature. Just take Marysia’s woven two tone style as an example.
Oseree Lumière metallic swimsuit
Bring the party poolside with Oseree’s glittery metallic gold swimsuit.
Monday Swimwear Clovelly One Piece
Known for it’s iconic fit, Monday Swimwear’s Clovelly swimsuit has gained cult status loved by celebrities and influencers.
Boden Panel Underwire Swimsuit
Tap into the boho movement with Boden’s paisley floral printed swimsuit.
Marysia Salento embellished embroidered seersucker underwired swimsuit
This monochromatic suit turns underwiring into a statement detail – perfection!
Monday Swimwear Sausalito One Piece
If you want your underwiring to appear practically invisible, Monday Swimwear’s Sausalito swimsuit will be for you.
5. Size inclusive
(Image credit: @shayzanco)
One of the most important things that will ensure your swimwear is as flattering as possible is that it fits well. So, with that in mind, I’ve compiled an edit of the best size inclusive swimwear brands to suit all body shapes. From petite to plus size as well as bigger busts, these brands cater to everyone so you can ensure a swimsuit that fits snugly and securely.
Good American Always Fits Modern Tank Swimsuit
Available from S-5XL, Good American’s Always Fits swimsuit does what is says on the tin.
For inclusive swimwear sizing on the high street, check out H&M. This cute frill suit comes in sizes 4-22.
Available in XS-5X and 12 shades including printed options, Nomads’ Wave one piece offers something for everyone.
Form and Fold The Square Mango Terry
Catering to bigger busted women of all sizes, Form and Fold is designed to sculpt like shapewear for a figure hugging fit.
Next Plunge Tummy Shaping Control Swimsuit
Available in petite, regular and tall sizing, Next’s swimwear selection caters to all.