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Charlie Bell

Swimwear trends 2023: The swimwear trends experts predict will be big this season

A composite of models wearing the swimwear trends 2023

The swimwear trends 2023 deliver something for everyone, whether you’re poolside posing or jumping straight in, it’s never too early to start scoping out your summer swimwear.

Shopping for the perfect one-piece or bikini is no mean feat, but starting in spring means you’ll have the pick of the latest swimwear trends 2023 before they all fly off the shelves. Whether you want to invest in a timeless style for your summer capsule wardrobe, or want a new season refresh, the swimwear trends 2023 delivered something for everyone. Taking their lead from the fashion trends 2023, expect everything from flirty, feminine ruffles to modern cut-out designs.

When it comes to the best swimsuits and bikinis, while the swimwear trends will govern what you find in the shops, getting the right fit is key. And with such a varied selection of trends this season, you can easily find the cuts and shapes that will support and sculpt your silhouette for maximum style points. 

“Swimwear is no longer only being packed in your suitcase for a holiday, it is being integrated into daily outfits to make the pieces we have in our closets work harder for us,” says Genevieve Andre de la Porte, founder of sustainable swimwear brand Zonarch.

“Think swim skirt sets, statement swim tops made to be worn from beach to bar, one-pieces that look and feel comfortable enough to double as a bodysuit, sets that can be worn under sheer or crochet looks. Interesting cut-out or strappy tops to be worn with denim and a blazer.”

With all that in mind, we’ve rounded up the hottest swimwear trends 2023 to keep tabs on this summer. Sunshine pending…

1. Metallics

(Image credit: Melissa Odabash / & Other Stories / Solid and Striped)

Bring the party to the pool with this disco-inspired trend that’s as glistening as the ocean. Drawing inspiration from the jewerly trend 2023, look to shiny fabrics and glittery finishes that will reflect the sun for the ultimate glamorous finish. 

Perfect for hitting any Las Vegas pool parties, or simply just taking your swimwear straight from the beach to the bar, this trend will add a luxurious A-lister vibe to your beachwear. Best teamed with oversized designer sunglasses and a wafty kimono, for that diva-inspired look, you’re guaranteed to turn some heads in this trend. 

2. Garden Party

(Image credit: Melissa Odabash / Peony / Mango)

From ditsy florals to tropical palms, when it comes to prints, the swimwear trends 2023 draw inspiration from our backyards for the season ahead. An easy swimwear trend to adopt, if you’re new to wearing print, try a smaller, more delicate design for a more subtle approach that won’t overwhelm your frame, especially if you’re petite. Or take note from Spanish clothing brand Mango and opt for statement floral embellishment for a modern take that adds texture and interest. For a fully coordinated look, add the best beach cover ups, such as a matchy-matchy skirt or beach shirt to pull the whole thing together.

3. Ruffles

(Image credit: Elomi / Monte & Lou / Paolita)

Tap into that cottagecore trend with romantic ruffles and fun frills. This trend is not only delightfully pretty, but it can be incredibly flattering too. Look to where the ruffles are placed to help balance your silhouette. Added ruffles around the neckline can add volume to smaller busts, while frills around the hip will balance broader shoulders and larger busts. Both of these styles will also help to create a more narrowed waistline thanks to adding width elsewhere on your silhouette. 

“Think ruffles, ballet-core silhouettes and ruching in soft color hues of pink, light blue and ivory. This trend is also relevant to brides planning for standout swimwear looks to wear during bridal festivities and beyond,” says Genevieve Andre de la Porte.

This versatile style is great for doubling up as a top too - just add a pair of denim cut offs or a floaty maxi skirt and top off with your best beach bag, such as a raffia tote for a whimsical finish.

4. Highlighter Hues

(Image credit: Sea Level / Swim Society / Solid and Striped)

Whilst a black bathing suit may be capsule wardrobe staple, in 2023 it’s time to inject a dose of dopamine dressing to your swim-drobe with vibrant shades for a sartorial endorphin boost. For the swimwear trends 2023, it's all about added impact, try clashing two different shades - a pink bikini top with a pair of green briefs for example. Keep the silhouette simple and stick to your usual go-to shape. You can add extra interest with ribbed designs and ring detailing. For an extra flattering finish, add a belt a là Solid and Striped in a coordinating color to define your waist. This one will really make your tan pop too, ideal when wondering what to pack for a beach vacation.

5. Bandeau Bikinis

(Image credit: Seafolly / Monte & Lou / Solid & Striped)

If avoiding tan lines is your biggest concern, this swimwear trend is the one for you. The unfussy, strapless style is the go-to for those chilling on a sun-lounger kinda days, without the fear of getting any strap lines. Add a '50s retro spin and team a bandeau top with a high waisted brief for a flattering finish - perfect for creating an hourglass shape

"Our favorite way to wear a bandeau bikini is paired with a modern high waisted bottom. The silhouette complements a lot of women and is truly a classic. With this in mind, customer tend to love a French inspired stripe pattern or paisley as an ode to French Bohemia," explains Genevieve Andre de la Porte.

Finish the look by tapping into one of the latest sunglasses trends with a pair of cat-eye sunnies.

6. Cut Out Swimsuits

(Image credit: Zara / Hunza G / Seafolly)

Cut out swimwear may seem like a daunting trend to try but it’s surprisingly easy and can be super flattering too. It’s all about the placement - cut outs on the ribcage will help to show off your waist and create am hourglass silhouette. While cut out details on the shoulder offer something more subtle and alluring. If you’re torn between a two-piece or a bathing suit, this has the best of both worlds too - the illusion of a bikini but with the security of an all-in-one, the cut out swimwear trend has been around for a while and shows no signs of disappearing anytime soon. Just make sure you slap on the sunscreen regularly to avoid burning.

7. Back to basics

(Image credit: Swim Society / Seafolly / Roxy)

The classic triangle two-piece has made a triumphant return and this unfussy silhouette is a solid all-rounder. Great for all body shapes, the string fastenings on the top and the bottoms mean you can adjust accordingly for the perfect fit, avoiding any uncomfortable digging in. A staple swimwear design for decades, it’s got some serious longevity so well worth investing in. 

"Everyone loves a classic triangle bikini but at Zonarch we like to step it up with our micro-string bikinis, which feature a specialized way of making spaghetti strap as thinly as possible," says Genevieve Andre de la Porte.

"Though the market is inundated with triangle bikinis, there’s always new ways to make them fresh and interesting."

Keep it simple in timeless white or add a boho twist with psychedelic prints and some beach jewelry. 

8. Sporty

(Image credit: Heidi Klein / Free People / Speedo)

Whether you’re doing laps of the pool or embracing your inner Baywatch star and running on the beach, this swimwear trend is as functional as it is fashionable. Lean into the retro vibe and look to Pamela Anderson inspired high-leg cuts and neon hues. Considered details such as statement zips, high, straight necklines and racing stripes will also add a sporty twist to a simple one-piece. 

"Though the category is itself born out of a sport, we’re seeing a big comeback in nostalgic athletic styles from the '80s and '90s. Think surf-ready rash guards and full sleeved maillots ready for any water sport," says Genevieve Andre de la Porte

Finish this athletic look with a baseball cap and some chunky Teva-style sandals.

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