While summer 2020 is certainly set to be different to years past, that does not mean there is no use for swimwear this year. Although we may not be jetting off to sun-drenched locations or lounging by Mediterranean beaches, swimwear will still be practical for the likes of balcony sunbathing, days spent in the park or if you’re lucky enough a backyard pool.
So let’s talk trends. As far as swimwear and bikini trends are concerned, many of the most popular styles of the season reflect the same trends which have gained traction elsewhere. Tie-dye, for example, was all over the S/S20 runways from Versace to Isabel Marant to Dior and more and evidently, has maintained its prominence across beachwear, as surf-inspired, colourful tie-dye bikinis are available across high-street and designer brands.
Vintage-inspired prints are also having a moment, reflecting the busy floral patterns that appeared across wallpaper in the seventies (and still in my grandparents’ home today). The trend maintains its retro sensibility by often being paired against high-waisted bikinis or one-piece silhouettes for a true vintage feel. Gingham—summer’s most enduring print—is also back again for another season. This year we’re seeing iterations of it that vary across different scales, spanning miniature and oversize checks. Yes, summer might be a little different this year, but there’s no reason our affinity for swimwear has to change.
Keep scrolling to shop our favourite swimwear trends for 2020.
Next up, the biggest S/S 20 fashion trends you need to know.