Making a Splash: Upcoming Swimwear Trends

It’s spring break season, and with that comes the start of the year's swimwear trends. While swimwear used to be thought of as just a fashion subset, it has truly evolved into its own genre. With designers blending swimwear and everyday pieces in their shows, we are seeing the signals that swimwear is just as important as other categories of clothes (Merrett, 2025). As swimwear's importance rises, so do the possibilities for its evolution, leading to the emergence of new trends.

Covering up: While swimwear tends to be one of the showier genres of fashion, it doesn’t have to be. Recently, we have seen the comeback of the one piece, albeit revamped. One pieces are no longer the modest, boring options they used to be; evolving into a category of their own. Unique cutouts, statement belts, and playful strapless designs add new elements to one pieces that set them apart.

Following the trends: Creating a sort of hypocrisy to the trending one pieces mentioned above, low waisted swimsuit bottoms are coming into the picture. Swimwear trends tend to mirror the trends of our everyday clothes, and with low-rise jeans recently making a comeback, so have low waisted swimsuits.

Simplicity: Swimwear tends to be thought of like the beach and warmer months; bright, floral, and full of color. However, trends recently have been taking the more neutral route, emphasizing the sexiness of simplicity. Neutrals pair well with dramatic sunglasses, a fun bag, and of course a good tan.

More than a feeling: Swimsuits tend to be made with synthetic fabrics like nylon, polyester, and elastane. However, crochet has been popping up everywhere, a fabric that is more eye-catching and sophisticated than the usual. Not just limited to bathing suits, crochet is a popular choice for cover-ups and beach bags as well. It also happens to be more sustainable, showing trends tend to follow what we as humans care about. Crochet is a win for both fashion and our planet.

References

Merrett, R. (2025, January 9). Swimsuit Trends 2025: Naughty Neutrals, Groundbreaking Florals, and Bold Black One-Pieces. StyleCaster. https://stylecaster.com/lists/swimsuit-trends-2025/

Parker, A. B. (2024, May 20). The 6 Defining Swimsuit Trends of Summer 2024 to Shop Now. Vogue. https://www.vogue.com/article/swimsuit-trends

Graphic by Madeleine Carter