Let’s face it: 2020 has been rough. That’s why we’re looking to find moments of joy and pleasure this summer with our new series, Summer’s Not Cancelled.
With many public pools and beaches reopened across Canada and cottage season off to a strong start, now is the perfect time to order that new bikini or one-piece you’ve been eyeing since February — before it sells out in your size!
What to look out for? The year’s top swimwear trends include low-back one-pieces, tie-dye everything, dramatic florals, sleeved tops, and bandeau styles. Of course, eco-friendly suits made out of recycled or environmentally friendly materials are always a good idea, and so is supporting ethically and locally crafted brands (especially ones run by BIPOC designers).
Here are 30 swimwear picks to get you started on your shopping.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Bandeau Tops
Styled with everything from barely-there briefs to high-waisted, full-coverage bottoms, sleek little bandeau tops are having a moment. The cutest cuts can even be worn off the beach with jeans or under a sheer top.
Just keep in mind that unpadded styles won’t offer a ton of support up top, although wider, longline designs should be better at keeping everything in place.
Low Backs
A plunging neckline won’t ever go out of fashion when it comes to swimwear, but we’re also seeing lots of fitted, one-piece suits with low scoop backs this summer. Often paired with revealing side panels or high-cut legs, these are unexpectedly sexy one-pieces that are still super comfortable to wear and move around in.
Tie Dye
We’re still not over tie dye! It’s the perfect youthful pattern for summer’s chill vibes, and adds a fun texture to any swimsuit.
Bonus: it comes in both muted, monochromatic colourways and pastel-y, high-contrast combinations. And remember that you could always pair a dyed swim top or bottom with a solid coloured separate in a complementary hue, for a more low-key look.
Dramatic Florals
Tropical and floral prints are swimwear staples, for good reason. But this season, the prettiest blooms are set against darker backgrounds that allow the vibrant colours of the flowers and foliage to stand out even more.
For maximum impact, seek out large-scale, graphic patterns — tiny, ditsy florals would be more sweet than memorable.
Swimsuits With Sleeves
Swimwear that offers additional neckline and arm coverage is ideal for sun-sensitive individuals, modest dressers and athletes alike.
And it’s not just heavy-duty, neoprene rash guards that are trending. Most of these pretty swim tops and one-pieces with sleeves are lightweight and well-fitted to the body. Some are even cropped. Wear them with a matching bottom if you’d like, or just layer one over your go-to swimsuit for added UPF protection.