From the coquette to the leopard print – the catwalk trends come to you in the swimming pool.
Our diaries are now filling up in droves with summer plans. And that means only one thing for our closets: a makeover is on the cards. Layers are shed, seasonal trends take over and sorting swimwear becomes a top priority.
This year is an exciting year for swimwear trends. While the category can repeat itself over the years, this season’s collections take inspiration from ready-to-wear trends, blurring the line between fashion and pure beachwear. Earlier this year, the Mob Wife trend captured the fashion zeitgeist, reviving a collective that resembles leopard print – a trend that is also becoming a must-have in swimwear this summer. Brands such as Good American and Tropic of C have embraced the trend for 2024 by giving the nostalgic 80s print a modern interpretation.
And then there’s the continued relevance of Coquette, the ultra-feminine aesthetic – think bows, pink and all things cute – that has dominated catwalk trends in recent seasons. And thanks to brands like Frankie’s bikinis, this aesthetic is now being applied to swimwear. Other internet-derived trends, such as quiet luxury, are also influencing swimwear this season, with 90s-inspired swimsuits (à la Caroline Bessette-Kennedy) in neutral shades among the most popular styles.
Leopard Print
You could argue that leopard print is a classic more suited to fall and winter than a beach vacation. But its prevalence in 2024 – thanks to designers and internet trends – makes it one of this summer’s must-haves. With its understated maximalism, this trend allows you to play with it and wear as much or as little leopard print as best suits your style.
A one-piece leopard print swimsuit is always a good choice, but you can also opt for a high-waisted bottom for a retro look or an asymmetrical one-piece with a cut-out. As long as the leopard print is present in your beach look, it’s good enough to make this trend work.
Heavy Metal
The sunny months are the best time to wear metallic shades, whether they’re warm or cool tones that capture the light this season. But if you first think of the bright lamé of the 2000s, it’s time to flip the switch. Instead of high-shine textiles, opt for softer gold metallic tones that work well with the minimalist ready-to-wear seen on the catwalks.
‘90s Boom
It’s safe to say that Caroline Bessette-Kennedy is still an “it girl” in 2024, and swimwear trends are taking cues from her iconic style with minimal, 90s-inspired offerings. Plain black and white pieces are made more interesting with color blocking and geometric details in one and two-pieces. The classic silhouettes of the 90s are also now taking center stage: high-heeled, daring bottoms and sporty tops are a must in this trend.
Backless Swimsuits
There will always be a place for a great bikini by the pool, but one-piece swimsuits are the hottest pieces in 2024. While the more modest style is a safe choice for summer, the one-piece is getting a little more daring this season. Backless swimsuits, characterized by a low-cut, lace-free back, are the 2024 trend that makes one-pieces cool again. While the classic silhouette has long been on trend, this year it’s all about experimenting with the cut and color of the one-piece and blurring the lines between bodysuit and swimsuit.
Coquette
There will always be a place for a great bikini by the pool, but one-piece swimsuits are the hottest pieces in 2024. While the more modest style is a safe choice for summer, the one-piece is getting a little more daring this season. Backless swimsuits, characterized by a low-cut, lace-free back, are the 2024 trend that makes one-pieces cool again. While the classic silhouette has long been on trend, this year it’s all about experimenting with the cut and color of the one-piece and blurring the lines between bodysuit and swimsuit.
