Your Ultimate Swimwear Guide

No two words scare the living daylights out of women more than swimwear shopping. Whether it's the inevitable lack of tan or bright unflattering changing room light, trying on swimwear is a traumatic task.

If you’re looking to purchase some new swimwear for an upcoming holiday, our biggest piece of advice would be: start early. We’ve all been there, searching the slim pickings in the sale section while panic buying bikinis at the end of August - not fun in the slightest. Instead, get ahead of the game, and make your beachwear purchases now when the shops are stuffed full of the good stuff.

If the task seems overwhelming, panic not as we’ve searched high and low for the best swimwear. Whether you’re after a classic triangle bikini, a sporty swimsuit, or maybe a retro high waisted two-piece, we can guarantee we’ll have found something for your shape and style.

Firstly, if you want to give your swimwear a 2017 update, these are the trends to look out for. For shopping picks, scroll to the bottom to check out our edit.

Stripes

Striped swimwear may not be groundbreaking but it’s a perennial trend for a reason. Supremely flattering with a nautical feel, stripes and swimwear go together like strawberries and cream. Keep it classic with a navy and white combo or for a SS17 twist look for ice cream shades, as seen at Solid and Striped. Just don’t forget the rules of optical illusion: vertical stripes are slimming and horizontal stripes are widening.

Images: @solidandstriped, @seafolly

Crochet

Since Kiini’s crochet bikinis took Instagram by storm a few summers ago, this colourful seventies material has popped up time and time again. Ideal for embracing your inner bohemian, the crochet bikini is not just a beach option but makes perfect festival attire when layered with a sheer blouse and shorts.

Images: @kiini, @bambaswim

Gingham

Hands up if you’ve bought a gingham garment of late? You can’t move on the high street for gingham pieces and naturally this checked print has now progressed into the world of swimwear. Whether you opt for a bikini or one-piece, the monochrome pattern makes a chic option for poolside lounging - simply accessorise with an oversized hat and a wicker basket for ultimate French Riviera cool.

Images: Reformation, @asceno

Frills

Feminine details have been all over the catwalks in past seasons and unsurprising they are now a big swimwear trend too. From bikinis with ruffle trims to peplum adorned swimsuits, there’s a ruffle option for everyone. Go all out with a tropical floral print or keep it simple with a block colour.

Images: @marahoffman, @hunza.g

Off The Shoulder

Whether you opt for a streamlined one-piece or a ruffled bikini, off-the-shoulder swimwear is guaranteed to score you style points. Plus, if you're worried about your wide shoulders this a great flattering shape to go for.

Images: @lisamariefernandez, @solidandstriped

Bows

For a retro feel choose playful bow or knot details. Make a sartorial statement with contrasting oversized bows on bikinis or swimsuits with tie up straps.

Images: @Roxana, Pinterest

See our favourtie swimwear pieces in the gallery below:

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