Perfect poolside chic with our pick of the hottest new swimwear trends. From sexy one-pieces with cut-outs to girlie detailing. Here are the best labels and styles to splash out on.
Taking shape
Make sure you chose a swimsuit style to suit your silhouette. Curvy figures should skip flimsy string bikinis and go for thicker straps that give more support. Need a lift? Try a halterneck, they are excellent for hoisting up your bust and creating an eye-popping cleavage. Pear shapes should stick to simple, skimpier bottoms instead of trying to cover up with jumbo briefs. Giant swatches of fabric will only draw attention to your problem area. Got a bit of a tummy? Flatten it with a tankini or a high-waisted, 50’s style bikini. Chloe Sevigny has been seen wearing one so you won’t feel frumpy.
The Trends
Hello Sailor! When it comes to swimwear, nautical is always in. Think French Riviera chic and stick to a palette of red, white and blue or go for stripes. Jets and Seafolly always do fabulous nautical numbers.
Cheap Frills
Ruffle some feathers with girlish frills. They are great for adding curves to straight-up-and-down boyish figures.
The Power of One
One piece cossies are still big news this season. Fashion forward gals should go for one with cutouts. Plunging necklines and one-shouldered costumes are also hot new looks but are more suited to poolside posing than catching waves.
Colour Me Happy
Bold, bright bursts of colour stand out and will make your tan pop. On the runway, Lacoste sent out models in head-to-toe sunny shades of yellow. High voltage shades are definitely a bright idea this summer.
Aussie Labels to Look for
Anna & Boy
Two former fashion assistants from Vogue are behind this cult label known for sending out uber on-trend shapes. One half of the duo was trained as a graphic designer and designs the label’s original prints. Best for: slim, athletic bodies.
Zimmermann
Year after year, Nicky and Simone Zimmermann continue to impress with their gorgeous range of fashionable swimwear. Best for: glamazons seeking resort wear.
Hotel Bondi Swim
A seriously sexy new label for girls not afraid of showing a lot of skin.
Seafolly and Jets
Two fantastic department store labels that have something for everyone. Both are good for classic cuts and styles with support.
Tigerlily
Jodhi Meares, a former billionaire’s wife slash swimwear model is behind this label offering up skimpy numbers in super cool 80’s prints.
We Are Handsome wearehandsome.com.au – a brand new label featuring unique digital prints.
Speedo
Lara Bingle (the ‘where the bloody hell are you’ girl from the Tourism Australia ad) has lent her curves to this oldschool brand which has been an Aussie fave for decades. Speedo has finally branched out from lycra race-wear and is now a fashion force to be reckoned with.
Top tip: Before subjecting yourself to the unforgiving glare of shop lights and mirrors, prep your body first. Scrub yourself from head to toe with a loofah or body scrub, defuzz your legs and bikini line and finally, for an instant slimming effect, get a spray tan. If you can’t tone it, tan it. Fake, of course.