The 10 Biggest Swimwear Trends to Shop in 2021

Bandier
Bandier
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This year, there's a desire for swimsuits and an urge to shop fresh trends like never before. That could be because we spent a good chunk of quarantine laying low around the house in our "swimwear-turned-loungewear," as we liked to call it, and we're committed to that vibe wholeheartedly.

There are so many fun takes on classic silhouettes this season, we don't even know which to try first! The one shoulder style gets a bold upgrade, some with double straps that run across the chest and add some edge. As far as patterns go, we're seeing a return to the '70s with ditsy florals and paisley offered in bohemian, earth tones. If you love girlie suits, try out a smocked bikini with pouf sleeves, and if you're sporty, you'll love the lace-up designs we've gathered below.

If you know exactly what you're interested in shopping, you can hop ahead to the proper category, or scroll through our wish list of bikinis and maillots one by one.

01
One Shoulder
solidandstriped.com

One Shoulder

This season, the one-shoulder swimsuit is particularly statement making with two straps or one that sweeps across the neckline in a way that's slightly sporty, and always eye-catching.

Solid & Striped The Issi ($178)

02
Ditsy Floral Print
frankiesbikinis.com

Ditsy Floral Print

If all of these floral-y prints are putting you in the mood to flip through a Limited Too or Delia's catalogue, we really don't blame you. Shop tiny prints or large scale, in natural colors or bright color pops.

Frankies Bikinis Binx Triangle Bikini Top ($90) and Frankies Bikinis Binx Skimpy Bikini Bottom ($80)

03
Smocked
blackboughswim.com

Smocked

If you reached for velvet or ribbed swimsuits for added texture last season, then this season is all about the smocked or "shirred" fabric, which adds exciting dimension to both bikinis and one-pieces.

Blackbough Swim Mila Top ($41, originally $55) and Blackbough Swim Mila Bottoms ($38, originally $50)

04
Pastels
asos.com

Pastels

Dream in whimsical, sugary-cool colors, all of which might remind you of Easter eggs and/or Taylor Swift's "Me!" music video. Whether you prefer gingham, stripes, or checks, there's a pastel iteration for you this season.

ASOS Design Tie Back High Leg Swimsuit in Check Print ($31, originally $37)

05
Lurex
frankiesbikinis.com

Lurex

Don't just call them glitter swimsuits — lurex is a luxe fabric with a metallic sheen and it's also extremely flattering. Whether you prefer a bikini or a wild one-piece, this '70s inspired fabric is a groovy addition to your swim drawer.

Frankies Bikinis Seraphina One Piece Swimsuit in Shimmy Blue ($180)

06
Midriff Cutouts
madewell.com

Midriff Cutouts

Whether you like a circular cutout at the center or you prefer a knotted maillot with fabric gathered at the center, so your cutouts are on each side, this look brings even the most simple one-piece a little something special.

Madewell Second Wave Cutout One-Piece Swimsuit ($70)

08
Paisley
tolucaswim.com

Paisley

We're gladly welcoming this '70s-inspired pattern back into our swim drawer. It's best worn in natural earth tones with braided hair and some gold jewelry for the ultimate sun-kissed at sundown glow.

Toluca Swim Artemis Midi One Piece in Renaissance ($105)

09
Two-Tone
anemosswim.com

Two-Tone

In bikini form, opt for classic contrast patterns, or select a maillot with two differently colored panels. If you like to dress up your swimsuit, trust, keep your accessories minimal with this one!

Anemos The Tortoise Bandeau Top in Thin Stripe Print ($155) and Anemos The High-Waisted Cheeky Bottom in Wide Stripe Print ($145)

10
'90s High Leg
urbanoutfitters.com

'90s High Leg

While this trend might not be for everyone, it certainly elongates the length of your legs as the bottom sits above the hip. To emit full-on vintage vibes, go for a retro pattern.

Out From Under Heidi Printed High-Cut Bikini Bottom ($10, originally $42)