It’s around this time of year that summer-types start dreaming about their next sojourn to the sun.
Pre-Christmas midwinter doesn’t feel so bleak, not with all the sparkly lights, mulled wine and parties to distract us. But come January and it’s a whole new state of play. The unofficial month of survival and endurance is enough to have anyone reaching for their passport and tapping their handset for a ride to Heathrow.
Many swear by flying towards sunlight in winter, jumping on the opportunity to lap up some much-needed vitamin D to tide them over until BST kicks in properly. One could even go so far as to call it self-care.
If you have booked such a trip, then congratulations: you’ve done the main planning part. Now all that’s left is deciding what to pack.
If you’ve dug out your summer wardrobe only to find the swimwear leaves much to be desired, it might be time to pick up a few new pieces so you’re comfortable by the pool or at the beach. While shopping for swimsuits can be challenging - it’s more boucle than bikinis on the racks these days - it’s not impossible.
Cruise collections, shown on global catwalks in spring, are in store now, meaning you can pick up new swim and beach pieces designed for winter sun travel. Also known as resort, pre-spring and holiday collections, the concept was Coco Chanel’s brainchild back in 1919, and the luxury French fashion house continues to show agenda-setting collections today.
We’ve rounded up the best swimwear from this season’s haul of cruise collections for readers hunting for new designs to turn heads at the swim-up bar.
HUNZA G Osiris metallic ruffled seersucker bandeau bikini
Sculpting seersucker means this Hunza G bikini comes in one size only: don't worry though, it should suit most standard dress sizes. The two piece consists of high-waisted briefs with a frill detail along the leg and a classic bandeau top, strap-free to minimise tan lines.
Buy now £215.00, Net-A-Porter
John Lewis Hello Sailor Stripe Cut Out Swimsuit, Blue
It's hard to find fault with a classic nautical stripe. John Lewis's asymmetrical design features a cutout midriff with high-waisted pants, holding you in while showing some skin. Pair with palazzo-style beach pants for an easy update when you're off to get another round of pina coladas.
Prefer to keep things intact? Find a true one-piece version for the same price here.
Buy now £36.00, John Lewis
M&S Collection Printed Padded Strappy One Shoulder Swimsuit
Channel retro vibes on your next adventure with this one-shoulder floral print swimsuit from M&S. The brown and aqua palette is crying out for oversized sunnies and gold hoop earrings.
Buy now £35.00, M&S
Reina Olga Nyx Swimsuit
If you take a different size chest to the rest of your body, Reina Olga's swimsuit covers all bases.
The ultra-soft crinkly fabric is complemented with zig-zag stitching (which also aids stretch) to form a classic swimsuit with enough give to allow for the body's natural fluctuations. The chest offers plenty of support (no falling out of this bad boy) while giving a cleavage to rival Pammy's, all accentuated by that cute belt.
The one-size garment spans sizes, from XS to XL (18/20).
Buy now £340.00, Reina Olga
M&S Collection Tummy Control Textured Striped Halterneck Swimsuit
With a chic Missoni-style print, your new beach buddies will never guess that this little number comes courtesy of M&S. From the purple and brown palette to the halterneck straps and tummy control panels to give you extra peace of mind about any sensitive areas, we can see this becoming your most reached for holiday hero.
Buy now £35.00, M&S
Curvy Kate First Class Multiway Plunge Swimsuit Black
Available in teal, pink and black, this swimsuit breaks up the bulk of colour by using mesh trims to show off a little skin. The fabric is recycled and the straps are multiway, so can be tied cross, halter and straight over each shoulder.
Buy now £25.00, Curvy Kate
Figleaves Frida Underwired Bandeau Swimsuit Longer Length
With removable straps and underwired cups, you won't be able to wait to show this fun swimsuit off. The good news is that with a pair of shorts and a light shirt, there's no reason you can't wear it to the park - although we imagine it would look best by the beach.
Buy now £40.00, Simply Be
MAGISCULPT Black Lose Up To An Inch Shaping Swimsuit - Longer Length
If you’re wary of stepping away from the safety of all black, this one-piece will keep you in your comfort zone. It’s the details that make it one of the Best around: a flattering neckline and low-rise legs that sit comfortably at the top of the thighs. The ruching detail will also be welcomed by anyone with tummy self-consciousness.
Buy now £50.00, Simply Be
Free People Kya Reversible Camilia Bikini Bottoms
This timeless colourblock swimwear staple will be an elegant style you’ll wear for years to come. It’s ultra flattering - from the cross bikini top that accentuates the cleavage, to the high rise, high leg bikini bottoms that come complete with a wide supportive waistband. Best of all, it’s fully reversible so you’ll get two designs for the price of one.
Buy now £88.00, Free People
