7 Top Swimwear Trends for 2022 and Where to Shop Them Now

Spring is finally starting to show its face and I don’t know about you, but these first tickles of sunshine are getting me in the mood for a holiday. We are mere months from summer and even if we aren’t lucky enough to require our swimwear on home turf just yet, we will most certainly be meticulously planning our looks for lounging by the pool and frolicking in the surf. One does not simply emerge from the waves looking like a goddess, it takes groundwork. Lucky for you, we are all over it. Here are the 6 key swimwear trends you need to see before you start planning your beach babe looks, and where to get them.

If you are looking to update your swimwear collection this summer, check out these top 2023 swimwear trends next…

FIGURE FLATTERING RUCHING AND DRAPING

The trend for ruching and draping isn’t just for your going-out looks, this ultra-flattering trend has made a welcome appearance on beach-bound pieces too. Whilst smocking has been around for some time on swimwear, the trend for ruching and draping that has been all over the SS22 catwalks is seeing new ways for your swimwear to hug the body in all the right ways.

Fuchsia ruched Swimsuit with detachable cups, a straight-cut neckline with keyhole opening and multi-way ties.
Zara ruched swimsuit in FUCHSIA, £29.99

Pink is definitely having a moment, in the swimwear world as well as elsewhere. This shade is perfect for this fun ruched, halter neck one-piece with a 70s vibe.

Brown Swimsuit featuring removable cups and an asymmetric neckline with ruched detail. Open back.
Zara Asymmetric Swimsuit, 29.99

You need to see the front and back of this chocolate brown ruched wonder.

v neck khaki coloured bikini top with centre ruching detail and back hook fastening
Mango Draped Bikini Top, £35.99

On the subject of swimwear neutrals, khaki and olive tones are always good summer options. The matching high waist bikini bottoms are super flattering with the wrap-around tie, especially if you like a little coverage.

Blue Shiny finish Bandeau design bikini top with flattering gathering over the bust. Under wired with hook fastening and Inner lining.
Mango Shiny Bikini Top, £19.99

If on the other hand, you are less fussed about the idea of coverage, this ruched bandeau top, and the matching Brazilian bikini bottom in beautiful bright blue are a great option for seaside lounging.

Dark brown high waisted bikini bottoms with flattering ruching across the tummy.
Self Portrait Ruched high-rise bikini bottoms, £60

Ultra flattering ruching in a simple silhouette.

Black artfully ruched swimsuit from Self-Portrait designed with underwire cups that'll support and mold the bust in equal measure. The self-tie at the back ensures a tailored fit.
Self Portrait Ruched tie-back swimsuit, £220 

Everyone needs a black one-piece in their swim rotation and this one looks ultra-flattering and with a little support.

& Other Stories red Bandeau bikini top med a shirred finish and adjustable, removable shoulder straps. Back hook closure
& Other Stories Shirred Bandeau Bikini Top, £29

This shirred bandeau bikini top adds a touch of volume and looks super cute with the matching high cut briefs . It also comes in black if you are not about colour.

H&M black Fully lined, waist-high bikini bottoms with gathers at the sides and a high cut at the back.
H&M Ruched Brazilian Bikini Bottoms, £12.99

I have these subtly ruched high cut bottoms, and the matching top and I am a big fan.

The Attico's Fuchsia ribbed bikini briefs are twisted at the waist to create subtle asymmetry. They've been made in Italy from fuchsia stretch fabric.
The Attico Twisted ribbed bikini briefs, £144

This colour is trending. Wear with the matching pink top for a high-impact look.

Powder purple slinky Norma Kamali swimsuit with high cut legs, sweetheart neckline, and ruched effect down the middle for a flattering silhouette.
Norma Kamali Slinky Marissa swimsuit, £148

Slinky is a great name for this swimsuit and it will make for the perfect going out top after sundown.

H&M Ruched Black Swimsuit, £24.99

Classic black with a gathered twist.

JOHANNA ORTIZ Rich Earthly bandeau bikini top., £173

This knotted and twisted two-piece looks great in earthy khaki. Pair the twist detail bottom with the knotted top.

Isa Boulder copper-toned ruched bikini top cut from stretch-satin that shimmers as the light hits it.
Isa Boulder Twisted ruched stretch-satin underwired bikini top, £103

Isa Boulder is all about flattering ruching. Bring your glam to the beach and shimmer under the sun in this copper-toned set with a gorgeous shiny finish.

CLEAN LINES

If you’re more fuss-free when it comes to your beach look, there are plenty of clean-cut and minimal silhouettes that make for a simple, but high-impact beach look. These effortless styles look great in neutrals, but also let a bold bright take centre stage if you want to work a little colour. Clean lines and fuss-free shapes always look good and will work effortlessly with the rest of your holiday wardrobe.

Brown Non-wired halterneck bikini with sweetheart neckline and removable padding. Adjustable back fastening and adjustable straps. Plain fabric with recycled polyamide.
Oysho V neck Bikini Top, £25.99

This satisfyingly simple bikini top gives a little bit of lift and the matching bottoms are ultra-flattering if you like a high waist. Both these styles come in a range of colours.

Red Halterneck high neck swimsuit with V-cut back. Non-wired with removable cups and medium coverage. Recycled piqué fabric.
Oysho Red Low Back Swimsuit, £39.99

This otherwise simple, classic red swimsuit brings a little drama at the back with its low v cut. I am a fan of the quality of the swimwear from Oysho.

Black Non-wired swimsuit with asymmetric neckline and removable cups. Cut out detail on the back and waist. Fabric with recycled polyamide.
Oysho Black Cut Out Swimsuit, £39.99

Minimal with a touch of drama.

Technical Finish Bandeau Bikini Top, £27

This clean-lined bandeau top in a beautiful shade has removable straps for versatility and cuts a clean silhouette with the matching brief.

Red Textured ribbed fabric swimsuit with Removable adjustable straps. Straight neck. Inner lining. Removable foam.
Mango Textured swimsuit with adjustable straps, £49.99

It seems like red one-pieces are having a moment and this ribbed, straight neck option from Mango has versatile removable straps. COS also have a nice red ribbed option with more sturdy straps, if you need more support.

Arket Black Square Neck Recycled material Swimsuit, £45

Sometimes you can’t beat a basic black one-piece. Although of course this one comes in red too, the swimsuit colour to be seen in this season it seems.

Red High waist classic design bikini bottom.
Mango High waist Bikini Bottoms, £19.99

Siren vibes in high-waisted red. Go for the full look with the matching triangle top.

This black swimsuit is cut from recycled stretch fabric and has an elegant V-neckline and wraparound ties that fasten at the back for an adjustable fit.
MATTEAU+ NET SUSTAIN The Wrap Plunge swimsuit, £230

Far more than a basic black swimsuit, this elegant v-neck one-piece with wraparound ties still has a distinctly minimal feel.

Deep Jade Green bandeau bikini shape top with thin minimal straps.
TROPIC OF C The C bikini top, £101

This colour is TDF. Match with the equally minimal tie-side bottom.

Brown Eco-Basic bikini from Oséree includes a triangle top and tie-side bottoms with minimal coverage. The set is made in Italy using ECONYL® fibers, which use recycled nylon.
OSÉREE Exclusive to Mytheresa Eco-Basic triangle bikini £152

If you want to tap into the triangle trend this minimal bikini is made in Italy using recycled fibres and the skinny straps are just perfect.

Black bandeau bikini top with underwire cups for extra support. This style offers minimal coverage.
TROPIC OF C Mariel bikini top, £111

Pair this wired bandeau bikini top with the “curve” bikini bottom for the complete look. Simple but effective.

Eres' Deep blue 'Conquete' bikini briefs sit high on the waist and have full coverage thanks to the vintage-inspired shape.
Eres Les Essentiels Conquete bikini briefs, £155

This high-waisted bikini bottom and chic one-shoulder top are beautiful in this deep blue colour.

Oséree's brown bikini top is modeled after cool '90s styles. Meant to be worn with the coordinating high-rise briefs, it's made from recycled stretch fabric and has pin-thin shoulder straps and underwired balconette cups.
OSÉREE Eco Basic recycled underwired bikini top, £111

Another ultra-skinny strapped winner, but with a little more support from the underwire. It looks perfect matched with the 90’s style high-rise briefs. And a gold chain ideally.

CLASSIC TRIANGLE

If you are a fan of a barely-there bikini, you will be happy to see that the classic, 90s style triangle is trending. Always a winner in timeless black for the minimalists out there, or use the more scant style as a base to go wild with joyful colour or a fun print without feeling overdone.

Pink triangle string bikini top with center bow detail.
Mango Pink Triangle Bow Bikini Top, £19.99

I think we can all agree that a crochet bucket hat is a necessary accompaniment for this fun pink set.

Dark Green and cream polka dot halter neck bandeau bikini top with string tie fastening.
Oysho Polka Dot Bandeau Bikini Top, £22.99

This is such a cute but classy set with the matching polka dot tie bottom.

Black self-tie triangle bikini top.
Mango Triangle Tie Bikini Top, £17.99

Sometimes classic black in a minimal silhouette is the way to go. Match this triangle top with the tie-side bottoms for the total look, or mix and match with your existing swim wardrobe.

Black Tie side triangle bikini bottoms printed with a lush botanical print.
SIR Enid Printed Tie Side Bikini Bottom, £76

This botanical print is divine. Pair the tie side brief with the matching triangle top, or mix and match with your black basics.

MATTEAU+ NET SUSTAIN The String floral-print triangle bikini top, £105

There is something about a daisy print, especially on this 90’s style silhouette. Pair with the matching bottoms or mix and match this easy black and white print.

jacquard-woven bikini with a graphic 'Safari' tie dye esque motif in grey and black tones. It's embellished with a delicate gold-tone chain and has metallic piping tracing the triangle cups and low-rise briefs.
OSÉREE Safari Microkini chain-embellished metallic stretch-jacquard bikini, £217

We need to talk about this print. There is also a gorgeous blue option you need to see.

TEXTURE

Smocking and surface texture have been around for a few seasons and look best in a block colour to really show them off. These comfortable styles hug the body like a second skin.

Arket Recycled Fabric Orange Square Neck Swimsuit, £55

A lot of Arket’s swimwear is made from recycled plastic waste. It’s also truly delightful, so a win-win all around. This bright orange looks good enough to eat.

Black Lined bandeau bikini top with a cut-out section at the front and shoulder straps that tie at the back of the neck or at the front. Cups with removable inserts that shape the bust and provide good support.
H&M Padded Bandeau Bikini Top, ££12.99

This black smocked top with self-tie halter neck is anything but basic and looks great with the smocked high waist briefs.

Green textured, square neck, one-piece swimsuit with decorative bow ties at the shoulders.
& Other Stories Textured Bow Tie Swimsuit, £45

This textured, square neck swimsuit will look equally as pretty alone as it will under your sarong or shorts on the way to the beach.

Burnt Orange hand-smocked high waisted bikini bottom designed with a flattering high rise and high-cut legs.
TOTÊME Smocked high-rise bikini bottoms, £100

Toteme does the best staples, even when it comes to swimwear it seems.

Arket Textured Wired Bikini Top, £25

This basic with a textured twist would be a great addition to your swim rotation for life. It is made from recycled fabric and comes in cup sizing, so taking the guesswork out of the situation. Style with the matching bottom for a no-fuss look.

Pale Sage Green / Blue one piece swimsuit in a textured fabric with V-neck and Thin crossover straps. Inner lining.
Mango Textured Swimsuit with Crossed Straps, £49.99

This interestingly coloured swimsuit also has a nice crossover strap detail at the back. It comes in classic black too, but I am a big fan of this refreshing hue.

Black smocked high waisted high leg bikini pant.
NA-KD Smocked High Waist Bikini Panty, £14.95

Keep it simple in this black smocked, high-rise bikini pant and matching bandeau top.

Metallic Chestnut signature crinkled swim Hunza G Bikini with high-rise bottoms and a light support top with tortoiseshell-effect ring detail.
Hunza G Nadine Bikini, £150

Hunza G’s signature crinkle effect, one-size-fits-all swimsuits come influencer approved. This tortoiseshell ring detail option looks great in this “metallic chestnut” shade. It will be a great match for all your neutrals and gold jewelry.

Hunza G signature crinkle fabric Juno bikini has a twisted top and classic high leg bottoms with low coverage. Presented here in spearmint green.
Hunza G Juno Bikini in Pale Green, £150

Minty fresh.

SPARKLE

Lurex and metallic fabric interest are still going strong across all categories including swimwear. This is the ultimate option for glistening by the pool, and this shimmering swimwear will also take you nicely into party mode.

sleek, sporty cut Oséree bikini top made from sparkly gold stretch-Lurex and traced with gold piping. Pair yours with the matching briefs.
OSÉREELumière stretch-Lurex bikini top, £150

All that glitters… Oséree is another celebrity and influencer-approved favourite. The contrast between the sporty shape and high glamour gold shimmer on this set is really a delight.

low back deep blue sparkly lurex swimsuit with thin spaghetti straps.
OSÉREE Lumière swimsuit, £195

This sparkling blue, low back one-piece was made for lounging on a yacht with a cocktail.

OSÉREE Lumière ’90s bikini, £190

Even the mermaids will envy you in this shimmering green bikini in a great 90s shape.

Zimmermann's 'Andie' bikini has a shimmery sheen thanks to the subtle metallic threads. Providing minimal coverage, this set includes brown low-rise briefs and a yellow top with a deep, scooped neckline. Wear yours with retro sunglasses.
ZIMMERMANN Andie two-tone bikini, £195

Shimmer subtly in this gold and copper two-tone bikini.

Oséree's 'Shine' bikini has a draped bandana top that resembles styles from the '00s. Made in Italy from glittered orange stretch-polyamide, it secures with slinky ties at the back and sides and offers medium brief coverage.
OSÉREEShine glittered halterneck bikini, £193

If you prefer a little more coverage, these 00s inspired draped, halter, bandana styles are trending. Did anybody else know these as hanky tops, or is that just me? Anyway, whatever we call them, I would like one.

Metallic lilac bandeau bikini top with minimal thin straps.
Mango Bandeau Bikini Top, £19.99

If your budget is a little more modest, the high street has come up with a few metallic options this season. This minimal silhouette from Mango works really well in lilac. Wear the top with the matching tanga briefs and please don’t miss out on the matching beach wrap skirt.

A classic bikini top with clean lines, a deep v neck at the front with cross over straps and a tie fastening at the back. Small gathers on the side seams offer a little more coverage. The beautiful midnight sparkle is an Italian made fabric and is made to order.
Lonely Grace Bikini Top In Midnight, £84.03

Shimmer in this midnight blue halter top and the matching high-waisted briefs.

PRETTY PRINTS AND RETRO FEELS

Vintage-inspired silhouettes have a timeless glamour that never goes out of style. Channel a 50’s movie star, reclining on the french riviera in a retro high-waisted brief and matching top. These styles look classic in black or a timeless print, like summer favourite gingham, or retro florals.

Ulla Johnson's 'Zahara' bikini briefs have a high-rise waist and contouring princess seams. They're printed with a retro floral pattern that matches the 'Sayulita' rash guard.
Ulla Johnson Zahara floral-print bikini briefs, £140

Such a beautiful print. The retro shape of the top is the perfect match for this high-waisted pant too.

Khaki and black gingham print high-waist bikini briefs with medium coverage. Fabric with recycled polyamide.
Oysho Gingham High waisted Bikini Briefs, £22.99

Gingham is a summer classic and looks great on this retro feel high-waisted bikini and halter top.

High rise black and white polka dot bikini bottom with full coverage.
SIR Devin high-rise bikini bottoms, £87

A monochrome polka-dot set, will never go out of style. Match the high-waisted bottoms with the twist feature top for a classic but cute look.

Eres swimwear is made from innovative ''Peau Douce'' fabric that shapes and sculpts. The Course swimsuit has contrasting trims, functioning pockets, and a deep scoop back with medium coverage.
Eres Course Swimsuit, £370

Eres swimwear is known for its innovative ”Peau Douce” fabric that shapes and sculpts. This classic maillot is giving me classy French girl vibes.

Floral Printed bikini top in shades of blue and beige featuring a square neckline and a ruffled finish.
& Other Stories Printed Ruffle Bikini Top, £29

This retro frilled floral top is too cute, especially paired with the matching high waisted bottoms . Work the look with a floppy hat and basket bag.

Navy High waisted bikini briefs in a thick ribbed finish, with bonded edges for a seamless finish.
& Other Stories Ribbed High Waisted Bikini Briefs, £23

These simple high waisted Navy blue briefs have a thick, ribbed finish and pair perfectly with the coordinating pearl button ribbed bandeau top for a Riviera-ready look.

H&M Black High Waisted Shaping Bikini Bottoms, £12.99

Tick off the draping trend whilst working a classic retro feel. Match with the equally figure-flattering push-up up top.

CUT-OUTS AND TIES

Cutouts are as popular as ever, from your party look to the beach. Whilst cut-out one-pieces have been popular for a while, the trend continues to evolve to incorporate ever elaborate tying systems for your bikini too.

Magenta one-shoulder swimsuit with cut-out midriff feature and ruched side detail.
Zara Magenta Cut Out Swimsuit, £29.99

This magenta shade is perfect for this fun cut-out swimsuit with side ruching detail.

Brown Swimsuit with removable cups and thin straps with adjustable drawstrings on the sides.
Zara Criss-Cross Side Swimsuit, £29.99

For a more subtle take, this criss-cross side detail swimsuit has got it going on.

Black low neck swimsuit with very thin double straps and keyhole detail. low back with thin strap across the middle.
Mango Swimsuit with Back Straps, £49.99

The skinny straps on this one-piece are perfect for a minimalist look.

bikini bottoms from Christopher Esber  in a tan shade are shaped to a mid-rise silhouette, and feature string ties to one side with a keyhole feature on the hip.
Christopher Esber Cut Out Mid Rise Bikini Bottoms, £131

Christopher Esber knows a thing or two about cutouts. This two-piece nicely works the skin baring trend whilst providing a good amount of coverage.

White underwired bra shape bikini top with thin straps and open strap back detail.
Mango White Bikini Bottom, £19.99

This classic white underwired bikini with skinny strap details taps into the trend, but with a minimalist vibe. Match with the Brazilian bikini bottom, or if you prefer a different shape white is super simple to mix and match.

Purple retro floral print bikini top with removable multiway cups. Features a V-neckline, bow at the neck and crossover wraparound thin straps at the waist.
Zara Two Way Printed Bikini Top, £19.99

Retro florals with a 60’s feel are having a moment and make for a fun beach look on this wrap-around bikini top and matching bottom in a very now silhouette.

Deep green floral-jacquard swimsuit with a ruched waist and cut-out sides and back and thin straps.
AGUA BY AGUA BENDITA Azul cutout ruched floral-jacquard swimsuit, £263.50

Keep it classy in this glamorous green goddess swimsuit with cut out detail and flattering ruching at the front.

black vintage style high neck swimsuit with a halterneck tie and dramatic midriff and back cutouts and full coverage bottom.
BONDI BORN+ NET SUSTAIN Camilla cutout halterneck swimsuit, £235

It seems a shame to save this glamorous vintage style cut-out number for the beach.

Livi bikini top from Jade Swim made from metallic swim turquoise fabric with a cutout at the center and statement criss-cross adjustable self-ties.
JADE SWIM Livi cutout bikini top £110

If strings are your deal, this Jade Swim intricate tie-around top and matching tie-side bottoms are for you.

Louisa Ballou matte swimsuit fabric, with label's signature asymmetric cut-outs and golden O-rings. This style offers minimal coverage and a bright abstract print.
LOUISA BALLOU Printed O-ring swimsuit, £260

The ultimate showstopper.

CLASSIC ANIMAL PRINTS

Animal Prints are a classic that never goes out of style and will stay in your swimwear rotation for life.

Zebra print black and white tie-side triangle bikini bottom.
Mango Zebra Triangle Bikini Bottom, £17.99

This barely-there zebra number taps into the classic triangle trend too. Pair with the matching zebra top or mix and match with your existing pieces.

Straight cut yellow and black zebra bikini top with black barely-there minimal straps.
Tropic of C The C zebra-print bikini top, £101

This twist on a classic print in yellow and black takes centre stage on this minimal silhouette with barely-there straps. Match the top with the minimal tie-side briefs.

Leopard print bikini top from Nanushka in a classic triangle silhouette with self-tie strings accented with gold-tone beads.
Nanushka Leopard print Bikini Top, £95

This Nanushka Leopard print triangle bikini top is accented with gold-toned beads. Go for head-to-toe Leo with the matching string bottom, or mix and match with your classic black pieces.

Ganni leopard-printed swimsuit with ruched bodice will flatter anyone, and detachable shoulder straps make it  versatile.
GANNI Leopard print ruched swimsuit, £ 145

If you are all about a one-piece don’t miss this ruched leopard print version from Ganni.

The leopard print bikini top is fully lined and features adjustable shoulder straps and a self-tie drawstring on the front with keyhole feature.
NA-KD Leopard Tie Front Bikini Top, £14.95

Hit up the trend for ties and cut-outs too in this classic leopard print set. If you like to show a little cheek, the matching tie briefs feature a high cut on the booty.

Neutral shades animal leopard print twisted plunge bandeau front bikini top with multiway straps that can be adapted to your ideal style.
Marks & Spencers Animal Print Plunge Bikini Top, £19.50

Never miss good old Marks & Sparks when on the hunt for the perfect swimwear. Pair this multiway plunge bikini top with the matching high waist briefs for a classic retro feel.

minimal silhouette patterned swimsuit with a playful zebra print, squared neckline framed by comfortable wide straps and high cut legs.
HAIGHT Thidu zebra-print swimsuit, £233

A high-impact print looks great on a simple silhouette, such as this high leg, square neck swimsuit from Haight.

If you are looking to update your swimwear collection this summer, check out these top 2023 swimwear trends next…

2 Comments