It might only be the start of spring, but we’re already looking forward to a hot summer and the official start of swimsuit season. In a dream world, we would spend the next 6 months propped up on a beach with a cocktail in hand, but as we have to settle for the odd holiday where we can get it, we might as well make each trip a special one, starting with our wardrobes. For those who want to spend less time meticulously planning what to wear on holiday and more time relaxing, I propose a solution: making the most of our swimwear, and if you’re looking for some fresh new swimwear trends to give you something to look forward to, you’ve come to the right place. Who better to ask for pointers on what to wear poolside than a certified expert in all things beachwear than a swimwear designer?
Aliya Wilkinson is the creative mind behind luxury beachwear brand Ôsalé, and with over 15 years of experience in the swimwear industry, she’s the go-to for brands looking to shake up their swimwear offering. And what can you expect to find in Wilkinson’s suitcase? “Holidays are all about going with the flow and not feeling like you have to changed before you move to the next thing… I love a versatile, halter-neck beach dress thrown over my bikini, something in a floaty lightweight fabric. Then I’ll always throw in one of my mum’s vintage raffia belts and some big bangles into my beach bag to dress it up at the end of the day, and a pair of fine gladiator wrap sandals—they always look elegant.”
And for those who find shopping for swimwear a slog, Wilkinson’s advice is to start by looking for quality first. “While most fast fashion brands design items with a short life span (both due to fleeting trends and quick production) we design each piece to last. Ôsalé stands for timeless appeal and we produce pieces that endure, both in style and substance. I tend to stick to simple silhouettes always highlighted by that special little something, be it luxe hardware, a delicate trim or a special textured fabric. I spend a long time getting the fit and finishes right, and always consider things like removable pads, bust support, adjustable coverage and the perfect cut on the bottom. Clever little details like that give the wearer options, such as transforming from a wide strap swimsuit into a sleek strapless piece.”
So with that in mind, we scanned socials and asked Wilkinson which trends are really worth buying into in 2024, and her predictions include something for everyone. “Gold hardware is huge this summer—think 90s Versace glamour. And at the opposite end of the style spectrum, anything with an artisanal feel such as hand crocheted edges, shells and beading is having a moment.” With hundreds of swimsuits, bikinis, and cover-ups to choose from, we whittled down the list to the below seven trends we’re confident you’re going to love, so if you’re in the market for statement-making swimwear that feels fresh and exciting, you’ll find it below. Now to book a flight…
1. Retro-Inspired Swim
Style Notes: From Brigitte Bardot to Ursula Andress, think of the epitome of holiday glamour and you’ll inevitably end up referencing old Hollywood or French couture. “This year I think people are going to be drawn to Parisian style, especially with a spotlight on the city for The Olympics and The New Look coming out,” notes Wilkinson. “This will likely cross over to swimwear with monochrome looks and retro styling. There’s a lot of swimwear with large flower appliqués which add a touch of couture, and I also can’t wait to watch Palm Royale, it looks like a Slim Aaron’s photo come to life. There has definitely been an influx of 1950s inspired swim on the market with balconette tops and high waist bottoms coming from the Coquette trend. Just add retro white sunnies!”
