For Australian girls, no summer is complete without the compulsory bikini update (forget about the 100 pairs you already own in the cupboard), and it doesn’t matter how bad those change room mirrors make us feel, nothing compares to slipping into that brand new bathing suit on the first beach day of the season and remembering how good summer actually feels.
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The hardest decision you will have to make however (cocktail choices and beach destinations aside) is just what bikini trend you will be adopting this season. You can guarantee florals and the classic string bikini will always be popular choices, but what about for the girl who really wants to make a stylish splash? Check out our hottest swimwear trends and be prepared to sizzle on the sand.
Neoprene
Those surfer types were onto something, weren’t they! Neoprene has long been associated with sun, surf and sand, but usually in the form of an unflattering, full body wetsuit, perfect for hiding – well – everything! (hey, at least it’s sun smart!). Welcome to neoprene 2.0, it’s bright, structured and often has cute mesh inserts or zipper details. Brands like N.L.P and Triangl are proving the humble wetsuit material can be sexy, and their adored designs are the stuff of swimwear dreams. Finally live out all your Blue Crush fantasies and play surfer girl this summer in neoprene.
Rash vest revival
If, like me, you are still haunted by the memory of the dreaded ‘rashie’ (“Mum, I’m wayyy too old to be wearing this!”), it’s time to get over these issues, NOW. The rash vest is back, and no, not in the fluro colours we all remember, this time around they are sleek and subtle, taking your beach presence to new levels of cool. Styles are also more cropped, still allowing you to show off those matching bather bottoms, and how those squats over winter (finally) paid off. If you simply cannot be charmed by the new look rash vest, racer style crop tops are a less intense version, and still an on-trend option for those coveting the sports luxe look. Plus, the support they offer in the swell is unrivaled, and sometimes practicality just cannot be beat.
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Crochet
When daydreaming of an island getaway, what comes to mind immediately is crochet bikinis, coconut drinks and hammocks. Whilst we can’t promise the coconuts and hammocks part, a crochet bikini is what every Aussie girl needs in her repertoire this summer. There is something tropical and alluring about crochet, it’s a trend that is seemingly timeless, always finding new life every season. If it’s just a touch of crochet you are after, the amount of styles incorporating crochet inserts, or intricate crochet detailing are endless, and who doesn’t want a slice of island paradise?
High-cut one-piece
Baywatch, eat your heart out, this summer the high cut one-piece is back with a vengeance and no bikini line is safe. There is nothing like a high cut to elongate your legs (isn’t that what dreams are made of?!), and if you go for a block colour for high impact, the effect can be simple and stunning. Try and stick to styles with a round neck and low back to balance out the high cut at the front, and you’ve got yourself that go to swimsuit when all else fails. No fuss, no frills, just an easy to wear one-piece. For the ultimate style devotee, a cheeky slogan onsie or fun printed version will get everyone on the beach talking.
Considering monochrome, high waisted and anything with mesh/lace/frill details are also popular this swim season, the options are endless. Or on second thought, save yourself the drama and get one of each, a girl can truly never have too many pairs of bathers.
images via nlpwomen.com, shopbop.com, abikiniaday.com, gnashswim.com
