European summer is winding down, but don’t let that fool you into thinking swimwear season is over.
As the northern hemisphere trades bikinis for boots, South Africa is heading straight into spring and summer, and the trends that dominated European beaches this year are exactly what’s about to define ours.
Here are the five bikini trends worth knowing before the season properly kicks off.
1. Crochet, but make it refined
Crochet swimwear is having a proper comeback, though this isn’t the beachy crochet of a decade ago. Think lightweight textures and delicate detailing that takes you effortlessly from the beach to dinner, refined rather than rustic.
2. High-waisted bottoms, now a staple rather than a trend
According to Vogue Scandinavia, the high-waisted silhouette has officially graduated from “trend” to permanent wardrobe staple, prized for its mid-section support and a classic, cinematic silhouette that never quite goes out of style.
3. Beaded and textured accents
Net-a-Porter and Shopbop’s fashion directors point to organic beaded accents as one of the season’s defining details, extending beyond the swimsuit itself into matching necklaces, sandals, and bags for a playful, resort-ready finish.
4. Polka dots with a retro twist
From flirty triangle bikinis to chic one-pieces, the dotted swimsuit has become one of the year’s most playful trends, bringing genuine retro charm with a distinctly modern edge.
5. Tonal animal print, minus the loud statement
Vogue Runway has flagged tonal leopard and snake prints appearing throughout Resort collections, but styled in neutral palettes rather than bold, in-your-face colourways, a quieter, more sophisticated take on a swimwear classic.
I for one am very much excited for our summer season, hey. I’ve always been a fan of seeing retro, cliché bikini styles make a comeback, and if I’m honest, those beaded and textured accent pieces are already on my shopping list for this festive season.
Which of these five trends are you most likely to try this summer?
Let us know in the comments below…