I don't know if it's the lighter mornings and evenings or the fact that I've just booked myself a trip to Greece in a few short weeks, but over the past few days, try as I may, I've found myself thinking nonstop about swimwear. I haven't been on a beach holiday in a few years, and prior to that, I think it had been a while since I updated my swimwear even then. So with a holiday on the horizon and hopefully some balmy temperatures on home soil also to look forward to, I thought it was high time I brush up on beachwear and start my research for the best swimwear trends of 2023.
Shopping for swimwear can be very difficult—sizing can sometimes be way off, especially if the two-piece you're eyeing comes as a predetermined set. This is why I always recommend approaching it as early as possible. No one wants to be running around trying to find a bikini the day before they're supposed to jet off. (Trust me—I've been there.) Taking the time to consider and try on a few styles will up the chances of you finding a swimsuit or bikini you really love, which should mean that you're more likely to get more wear out of it during future getaways too. I also like to broaden my swimwear search to beachwear, ensuring that I can strategically plan everything that I'm going to need as opposed to throwing everything in a case and hoping for the best (and inevitably having to pay for extra luggage allowance when I weigh in at the airport). So if you want your swimwear and everything around it to feel current this season, I can help with that.
Through the powers of Instagram, I've uncovered the swimwear trends I think we'll see a lot of this year. From colours of note to trending silhouettes to the garments to cover up with, these are the styles to wear to the beach, to the pool or, on a really good day, in your own back garden. Here's to summer 2023 and all its possibilities!
1. PURE AND SIMPLE
Style Notes: Crazy cut-outs were all the rage on swimwear last summer, but for 2023, things are taking a sleeker turn. Simple one-piece cossies are in; questionable tan lines are out. What I love most about this trend is that it pairs so well with trousers or skirts worn over the top, too—the ultimate beach-to-bar investment.
SHOP THE TREND
This swimsuit is going to be crazy popular this year.
Bows and crinkles make for a sweet swimwear combination.
Match your surroundings in this pretty blue one piece.
2. CROCHET EVERY DAY
Style Notes: We might be here to talk about swimwear trends, but as any fashion person will attest, that really ought to include the pieces you style your bikinis and swimsuits with. Right now, it doesn't get better than crochet dresses and shorts sets.
SHOP THE TREND
This looks so premium.
The wavy print is a fun switch from standard stripes.
A gorgeous high-street style!
3. SWEET LIKE CHOCOLATE
Style Notes: One of the most dominant swimwear trends for 2023 is brown, earthy hues, which mirror one of the biggest clothing trends on the spring/summer runways. Minimalists, this one's for you.
SHOP THE TREND
Tick off two looks in one with a simple brown swimsuit.
This bikini comes in sizes DD+ to G.
This swimsuit comes in 13 colours, but the chocolate brown is my favourite.
4. NECK ON THE LINE
Style Notes: Halter necklines are cropping up on the season's most fashionable tops and dresses, so it makes sense that they're also trickling through to swimwear designs. I actually lost count of how many halter-neck swimwear pieces—particularly bikinis—I saw during my few hours of research.
SHOP THE TREND
This would look great styled under a linen shirt too.
This bikini comes in sizes 6 to 20.
A classic black will never go out of style.
5. HATS OFF, SCARVES ON
Style Notes: Sun protection doesn't end with SPF; you're also going to want to shield your head (and hair) from the rays for the best part of your day, too, especially when temperatures peak. Yes, you can always rely on a hat to do the job, but a sweet silk square scarf seems to be fashion's favourite way to do so this summer.
SHOP THE TREND
As classic looking as bandanas get.
This will also wear well with a white vest top and jeans.
This would also make a gorgeous gift.
6. FOILED AGAIN
Style Notes: Some cossies are made for swimming in, and some are made to be seen in. This trend? It probably falls into the latter. Super-shiny bikinis, be they foil or Lurex, are all the rage this summer; choose a saturated shade like cobalt or green, or go delicate in soft silver.
SHOP THE TREND
This is giving Ibiza energy.
This cute cossie comes in so many colours.
A high-waisted bikini is so comfy.
7. SHIRT PURSUIT
Style Notes: This one is just as prevalent in the city as it is on the beach. If you invest in one item this summer (aside from your desired swimwear that is), make it a relaxed-fit linen shirt. White shirts are always a good idea, but I'm enjoying the brighter colours I'm seeing influencers wearing on their exotic getaways right now.
SHOP THE TREND
Linen at such a great price.
Massimo Dutti is my current obsession.
Australian brand Posse is now available in the UK via Matches. Rejoice!
8. BARBIE'S INFLUENCE
Style Notes: This summer, it's Barbie's world. We're just living in it, so blend in—even when you're on the beach—by living out your wildest pink-fashion fantasies in a fuchsia number. It helps that this specific shade of pink was one of the biggest colour trends in the 2023 designer collections too. The fact that it's proving so prevalent on the swimwear scene only confirms that pink is in for summer.
SHOP THE TREND
This screams Malibu Barbie.
The textured finish on this swimsuit makes it so comfortable to wear.
Eres is always a gorgeous brand for chic swimwear.
9. SKIRTING AROUND
Style Notes: Sarongs, pareos, skirts—whatever you like to call them, wraps are the chicest accoutrement to your swimwear this season. But don't take my word for it; just look at these gorgeous swimwear looks for proof. Not essential by any means, but highly recommended if you intend on sharing your chic swim attire on social…
SHOP THE TREND
The fringing is a nice touch.
Khaki goes with so many other shades.
This is big enough to be styled in a multitude of ways.
Next Up: Summer 2023 Fashion Trends: The Expert-Approved Looks You Need to See
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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