I'm a bathing suit enthusiast (I currently have 7 pairs and don’t swim). So, the topic of swimwear excites me. But, the strides I see the fashion industry taking in making plus size swimwear more stylish and accessible excites me even more. The days of mono-colored one-piece swimsuits are behind us. Here are the 8 trends that I'm enjoying seeing more of:
The Cutout Trend
Swimwear with cutouts gives you an opportunity to show off some skin and accentuate your curves without covering up. Perfect for that tattoo you have been waiting to show off! Recently I spotted Instagrammer Gabi (@gabrifresh) wearing the cutest two piece and she looked so fine! She is a true star and one of the people to watch in the plus size modeling industry right now. She’s beautiful and super relatable. Her suit was all black with cutouts. Very simple and sophisticated.
The Colorful Print Trend
Bathing suits are meant to be colorful and loud in my book and you can’t go wrong with the fun prints from this summer’s hottest designers. You can mix and match tops and bottoms to create new looks and this is the best way to keep your collection fresh. This Tropical Bralette Bikini from Clear Water has summer written all over it. I love a good floral print. The bottoms are also high waisted so you have a pin-up doll, vintage feel. I can just imagine her sipping mimosas on a beach chair, living her best life.
Tropical Halter Bikini, From Target, $29.99
The Mesh Trend
At any price point, sheer and mesh styles have also made a big splash this season; incorporating mesh into your swimsuit gives you the illusion of the cut out without actually showing the full-on skin. If you do enjoy the black, refined vibes that Gabi gave us I have a suit in mind for that too. The Embroidered Mesh High Neck Bikini from Xhilaration is dainty at the top with embroidered flowers and fearless at the bottom revealing some skin under those crisscrossed straps.
Embroidered Mesh High Neck Bikini Top, From TARGET, $24.99
The Ruffle Trend
For swimwear it’s always hard to find the happy medium for the ruffle: too much and it will bulk you up – not enough and your swimsuit could fall flat. The last two piece I picked gives us some Boho inspired style. Again from Xhilaration, the Flounce Bandeau Bikini has a vibrant pattern on top of flouncy fabric that lays gracefully over the bust. This top will get you feeling like a true island gal.
Flounce Bandeau Bikini Top, FROM TARGET, $19.99
I would be outrageously remiss if I did not show you all some one-piece options! I feel like the one-piece bathing suits get slept on. They are the classic staples of beach attire. A one-piece makes you feel like you're channeling your inner Marilyn Monroe! In fact, one of my favorite Supermodels, Ashley Graham, recently posted a picture on her Instagram in an enchanting Low Cut V, black bathing suit. She sold the entire look by posing effortlessly seductive on the beach. I love her hashtag by the way: #BeautyBeyondSize. It's unbelievable any agency could turn her away.
The Low V Trend
A Low V Cut elevates your classic style by making it a little daring! This Brave Soul Tie Front Swimsuit is so edgy and cool. The bright red says “Baby, watch out because I’ve arrived!”. I am in love.
Brave Soul Plus Size Tie Front Swimsuit, FROM ASOS, $36.00
The Nautical Trend
Sailor at sea type of vibes. Stripes are “in” in every season and blue and white together is a plus. Plus this style is timeless.
Also, another low cut little masterpiece I found is from Boohoo. The Plus Plunge Stripe Swimsuit. It’s Super Nautical. Very yacht party appropriate!
The Strapless Trend
My final and favorite trend is no straps at all. A bare shoulder look always gives fun. Also, this is my pick for your Beach Video appearance! If you do want to channel your inner Monroe with something less revealing but still curve appealing, the Frill Hem Swimsuit from Brave Soul is a match. I adore those adorable frills. It's so feminine and simple. Also, I love the color blocking of orangey peach and black.
Swimsuit season is honestly the best thing about summer. Find yourself a swimsuit that is fun, allows for self-expression, and is super comfortable. You may be out at the pool for a while, ya know? I hope this inspired anyone who is reading to live fearlessly and love your body.
Let me know the styles that work best for your body type. I want to hear from you!