Most women, myself included, hate buying new swimwear.
We tend to use it as a way of telling ourselves that our bodies aren’t good enough, that we need to be slimmer, more tanned and toned. We’re not to be blamed for this; society is constantly telling us we need to be smaller and smoother, but it is the sad reason a lot of us would rather scrub someone else’s oven than head to a changing room with a pile of swimwear. Start by accepting where your body is at now, and dress her in the best swimwear you can find. Life’s too short to spend a summer without pasta or gelato.
Finding the perfect swimsuit or bikini makes our holidays better – it makes us feel confident and lighter – which is why we have called upon the experts to offer their tips on how to find your ‘one’. Four of our favourite swimwear designers have come up with six questions to ask yourself before beginning your search. Think of this as a six-point plan to buying the swimwear that will make you feel great.
We’ll see you at the beach.
What will you be doing in your swimwear?
“Different styles are better for different purposes,” says Julia Utz, chief product officer at Seafolly, one of the OG Australian swimwear brands. “What are you going to be using the swimwear for? That will help you know what style to choose; you probably won’t be looking for a mini tie-up bikini if you’re learning to surf for the first time, and equally a sporty style might not work as well if you’re planning on a week sunbathing by the pool.”
Cuba high-waisted bottoms, £70, and Cuba bandeau top, £75, at Seafolly
What swimwear styles do you already own and love?
“You can’t always predict what will work, and different fabrics and brands shapes don’t all align, but when you find a one-piece or bikini for you, just repeat, repeat, repeat,” says Hunza G founder Georgiana Huddart, whose one-size-fits-all designs have changed the swimwear game. “Buy the same style in different colours and maybe with hardware tweaks. It’s a bit like finding your perfect fit for jeans.”
Dolly swimsuit, £185, Hunza G
What are your swimwear non-negotiables?
“It’s important to consider what features you really can’t live without so that you feel the most comfortable and confident,” says Utz. “For me, adjustable straps are a must. Maybe for you it’s a type of neckline or underwired cups. These details are such a good foundation point in finding the perfect swimsuit or bikini. ‘Hidden’ features make such a difference: invisible gripper tape to support the bust and stabilise your top, hidden underwire and ruching is great if you feel self-conscious. I like fabric to be firm in the fitting room, but not tight as it will soften when wet.”
Beach Bound square-neck swimsuit, £120, Seafolly
Are you buying it for the body you have now?
“Never buy swimwear for a body you don’t have yet,” emphasises Huddart. “I apply this ethos to all wardrobe decisions, not just swim. The idea of buying clothes that you should work towards fitting is mad. Live in the moment and pick what works for you now, which is why Hunza is great – our one-size-fit eliminates this internal conversation women are constantly having about their bodies. Avoid anything that’s uncomfortable, that digs in or that you can’t move in.”
Xandra bikini, £175, Hunza G
What colours do you normally wear?
“Swimwear should reflect your day-to-day style, so look at the clothes you own when it comes to deciding on colours,” says nounou founder of Anouchka Houser, whose designs have a feminine, vintage-inspired appeal. “If you’re unsure, consider richer tones such as our pomegranate or delphinium blue which flatter the skin tone a little more than black, which many of us instinctively reach for. Whether you love muted tones or find joy in colour or print, ensure you’re wearing the colour and it’s not wearing you. Find a piece you love and don’t discount the colour until you’ve tried it on.”
Indigo Fifi bikini, £220, nounou
Will you still love it next summer and the one after that?
“If the answer is yes, it’s the right one,” says Vanessa Sposi, founder of her eponymous French label, known for its minimalist, timeless styles. “Think of swimwear not just as seasonal, but as part of your lifestyle. Trends come and go but a perfectly cut piece in a rich, thoughtful fabric will always feel relevant. Look for a piece that fits beautifully, moves with you, and respects your rhythm. The right swimsuit or bikini should enhance without overexposing, and be made in a fabric that feels good from the inside out. Swimwear should feel like an extension of self, elegant, instinctive, and full of intention.”
High-waisted briefs, £109, triangle top, £109, Vanessa Sposi
Image credit: Vanessa Sposi
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Any Questions or Tips to add?