The Ultimate Swimsuit Guide

Don’t let your body shape dictate what swimsuit style you wear this Summer. The ultimate swimsuit guide simply asks that you wear whatever makes you feel good.

Whilst holidaying abroad isn’t the easiest thing to do at the moment, it doesn’t stop us from enjoying swimsuit season. Whether you’re enjoying some time at the seaside, at a pool party – or in your backyard, bring on the clean sunscreen and beach towel. That being said, finding a great looking swimsuit that does the job can be tough. 

You might feel self conscious or unsure of what style can fit you the best. Of course we believe that the best swimwear style is the one that makes you feel the most comfortable. Let’s put aside those swimsuit guides that tell you what you’re supposed to wear according to your body type. There is no such thing as one swimsuit for one body figure, and it’s up to you to decide when something feels just right. Who said curves are made to be hidden? And that a skinnier body can’t rock a high waist 50s inspired design? Welcome to the ultimate swimsuit guide.

The ultimate sustainable swimsuit guide Ayla Swim smocked frilly high leg bikini briefs

The High Leg 

This trend has arrived straight from the 80s. It’s a style we didn’t see coming but we’re now fully embracing (and loving) it. The high cut leg style creates an optical effect that instantly elongates your legs and enhances your figure. To give this look a try, we love these Smocked Frill Bottoms from Ayla Swim. They have all the drama of the high leg however the playfulness of the frills makes for the perfect combo for a universally flattering bikini. 

Smocked Frill Bottoms, £80, Ayla Swim

The Mini Bikini

If getting an even tan is at the top of your list or maybe you feel like showing off your figure, then the mini bikini is for you. This teeny weeny bikini isn’t for the faint hearted, but boy will you look smoking wearing it to a pool party. Gaia Woman use a fabric called Carvico Vita which has muscle fit technology. It won’t lose its shape when wet, so you can be sure everything will stay where it should. Even better, Carvico Vita is made from discarded fishing nets.

Althea Top, £52, Emmeline Bottoms, £46, Gaia Woman

The ultimate sustainable swimsuit guide Gaia Woman Pink Althea Bikini Top and emmeline briefs
The ultimate sustainable swimsuit guide HUNZA G square neck nile swimsuit blue

Evergreen One Piece 

The classic one-piece swimsuit is the type of purchase that lasts a lifetime. It’s a swimsuit style that will always make you feel well put together and chic, whilst oozing timeless flair. Since it’s designed to last, why not opt for a Hunza G signature sculpting seersucker fabric? This swim style will fit you anytime, rather than you having to fit into it. Plus they offer repairs so your suit will last longer. Originally established in the ’80s, Hunza G became famous for a cutout mini dress Julia Roberts wore in Pretty Woman. It has since been relaunched 30 years later, proof that some designs are just made to be memorable. 

Square Neck Nile Swimsuit, £145, Hunza G

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Sporty But Make It Fashion

Who said that sporty swimwear can’t be chic? To us, it’s pretty much the opposite. Take this Nieuwland 2e Yulex Swimsuit from Finisterre for instance. Just look at it’s minimal design, all-black colour, and high neck with zipper. If you’re looking for something that will make you look chic on holidays but will perform when you need it, this one has been designed for a growing community of cold water swimmers and surfers around the UK.

Nieuwland 2e Yulex Swimsuit, £110, Finisterre

The ultimate sustainable swimsuit guide Finisterre Nieuwland 2e Yulex black one piece swimsuit
The ultimate sustainable swimsuit guide Arkitaip linen and ECONYL crochet bikini

Crochet 

Could 2021 be the official summer of love for crochet? According to hip magazines and fashionistas, it certainly is. If you’re a knitting pro, then you can create your own design and create a one of a kind bikini. Otherwise, we love Arkitaip’s made-to-order crochet swimwear. The Alma Bikini is hand-made by Co-Founder Michi using a blend of recycled and virgin linen. They are also lined using ECONYL fabric. 

The Alma Crochet Bikini, £325, Arkitaip

The Retro Swimsuit

The retro, 50’s style bikini is the design that adds graceful femininity and a sophisticated touch. Reminiscent of vintage swim shorts, Peony’s gingham ‘Ruched Belted bikini’ features flattering ruched panels and premium belting for elevated everyday wear. It is inspired by their love of vintage gingham, with rows of creamy white and rich chocolate, making it a retro addition to your vacation wardrobe. 

Belted Bikini Briefs, £115, One Shoulder Top, £95, Peony at Browns Fashion

The ultimate sustainable swimsuit guide Peony Sunday ruched belted gingham print retro one shoulder bikini

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