Just like that, it’s officially swim season, and this editor couldn’t be more excited about all of the cool swimsuit newness on the market for 2021. There are so many stunning trends that we’ve been talking about in the lead-up to summer—including everything from the three-piece swimsuits that have already taken over on TikTok and Instagram to the retro florals that are taking over—but we wanted to provide a more comprehensive guide on all things swimwear in our annual report.
Ahead, we’re breaking down the biggest swimsuit trends to have on your radar (and in your shopping cart) for summer, featuring top picks from the most in-the-know buying experts, our team of Who What Wear fashion editors, and our very own readers. Here, get ready to dive into the best swimwear trends of 2021 that are bound to be everywhere this summer.
To get a preview of some of the most popular trends that have already been snapped up this season, I turned to our data team who shared details about the trends our readers are loving most. It comes as no surprise that you are all tuned into some of the coolest swimwear of 2021. More on that here.
One of the trends landing in shopping carts more than any others? Bikinis and one-piece swimsuits with super high-cuts for an elongated leg effect. Also a favorite among celebs including Bella Hadid and Ashley Graham, this trend is set to be really big this summer.
Okay, this is the perfect piece to add to your cart immediately.
High-cut legs are the throwback silhouette every fashion girl is wearing. Shop the matching Padded Bandeau Bikini Top ($6).
This unique cut is just too good.
Cutouts are another wildly popular trend among our stylish readers. This one takes direct inspiration from the S/S 21 collections where "naked" trends flooded the runways. More than ever, skin is in, and that is translating to swimsuits as well.
Just the right hint of skin.
How good is this one-shoulder silhouette and side cutout?
Cult Gaia is really delivering on cool summer swimsuits.
Textured fabrics were big last year, but it turns out they're gaining even more traction in 2021. Look out for standout finishes like ribbing and seersucker that add dimension to even the most simple swimsuit silhouettes.
Hunza G is a master of seersucker swimsuits.
The swimsuit that can also be worn as a bodysuit with skirts and pants.
The perfect bikini. Shop the matching Always Fits Better Cheeky Bottoms ($49).
I'm always curious to hear from fashion insiders to get their perspective on what is about to be popular, so I turned to the buyers at MyTheresa and Shopbop to share their expert insights. They have an eye into all of the fashion newness that is coming up on their sites, so it's a no-brainer to get the scoop directly from them.
According to MyTheresa Fashion Buying Director, Tiffany Hsu, we can brace ourselves for high-impact shades that make a major statement. "Many of this season‘s swimwear collections really reflect the current ready-to-wear trends," Hsu told us, "colors are bold metallic or high-shine. Brands to look out for are The Attico and Oséree."
The color of the season. Shop the matching Joni Briefs ($110).
The Attico launched swimwear this year and it's already a fashion insider staple.
An Amazon find you won't want to wait on.
Shopbop Fashion Director Caroline Maguire also weighed in about summer swim. "I cannot wait to get back into my swimsuits for the summer season," Maguire explained, "retro-inspired silhouettes have consistently become more popular season after season. Lately, I am loving suits that provide a bit more coverage like a high-waisted bottom." As someone who is a big fan of high-rise bottoms, I'm always ready to add more to my collection.
I can't resist this stunning mermaid top.
You can never go wrong with an animal print. Shop the matching Animal Print Bikini Bottoms ($28).
Ruffles are another swimwear micro-trend to keep your eye on. Shop the matching Penelope Bottoms ($90).
Next, I asked Who What Wear's team of fashion editors about the top swimsuit trends they're most excited about this season. While there were plenty of others that nearly made the cut—including terry cloth bikinis and glitter swimsuits—these three were the frontrunners.
Super-strappy swimsuits are simply everywhere for summer and there are so many cool takes on them worth noting—from minimal straps you can barely see to waist "floss" versions that put the thin straps into full focus.
The “floss” swimsuit you’ll definitely want in your suitcase. Shop the matching Brazilian Bikini Bottoms ($10).
Melissa Simone is a favorite among celebs like Bella Hadid. Shop the matching Kyra Thong Bikini Bottom and Skirt ($90).
Just gorgeous. Shop the matching Liza Bikini Bottoms ($118).
The three-piece swimsuit trend has already taken the fashion world by storm and our editors can't get enough of it. To wear it, simply find a matching swimsuit set that includes a bikini and coordinating pieces (like a shirt, skirt, or scarf) in the same print.
Oséree is a cult favorite among the fashion set.
Wear the matching bikini with this top, unbuttoned, with a pair of denim shorts.
This bikini is stunning on its own. Shop the matching Ziggy Bikini Bottoms ($110).
Add the matching scarf, though, and it's a look.
Our senior editor, Lauren Eggertsen, broke the story on retro floral swimsuits and she was certainly onto something. The throwback print is everywhere this summer and topping our team's list of must-buy trends.
The first thing to pack in your suitcase. Shop the matching Willow Cheeky Bikini Bottoms ($90).
This print is next-level.
I love the idea of styling this with a linen maxi skirt. Shop the matching Waikiki Floral High-Rise Bottoms ($80).
