Your beach vacation is booked, your out of office message is set, and your outfits are all planned. Now all you need is the perfect bathing suit or two (or three) to complete your planning process. The most important thing about a bathing suit is that you feel your best in it, but with the ever-changing trend cycle and never-ending options, it can be hard to decide on the perfect one. We’ve compiled a list of this year’s hottest beachwear trends to give you a little bit of direction in your search, so that no matter what you choose, you’re sure to make waves.

Not Your Grandmother’s Crochet

Bring out the knitting needles! Kidding, but with boho chic on the rise, crochet bathing suits have been everywhere. Crochet is a great way to add some delicious texture to your beachwear, and maybe you can get crafty and even create your own design.

From left to right: It’s Now Cool, It’s Now Cool, Cult Gaia

Embroider Me Nice

Speaking of adding texture to your beachwear, why not get something with some embroidery? If you love layering your jewelry so that you glimmer under the sun, but don’t want to damage it or lose it in the water, this is the option for you.

From left to right: Pat Bo, Oceanus, GCDS

Florals For Summer

Florals for spring might not be groundbreaking, but we’re bringing them into summer. Whether your preference is a garden rose or more of a bird of paradise, there’s enough floral bathing suit options to create an entire bouquet.

From left to right: Everything But Water, Erdem, Farm Rio

The Animal Inside

This one’s for the maximalist– the ones who feel spiritually aligned with Fran Fine. Animal print might be bold for some, but at this point, we feel as though it’s a neutral. Zebra and leopard print might be obvious go-to’s, but why not get a little funky and stand out with something like a shrimp, giraffe, or butterfly?

Take Me Back

Retro is all the rage this season, with styles ranging from 60s balconettes and high waisted briefs to 80s bright colors and high cut bottoms. While there’s a ton of modern options inspired by past decades, you can also participate in this trend by buying an actual vintage suit, this way you’re sure to have a one-of-a-kind look.

From left to right: Norma Kamali, Andriana Degreas, Etsy

Shine Bright

Metallics were a hot trend on the Spring 2024 runway, and they’ve made their way into swimwear as well. Shine like the scales of a mermaid tale or shimmer like sunshine reflecting off of the waves with a gleam as glowing as your tan.

From left to right: Rick Owens, Oséree, Norma Kamali

Minimalist Mindset

90s minimalism is back better than ever, and solid colors like black and white are great for those who love something that’s effortlessly chic. On the other hand, choosing a color like lime green or red is great for those who want to be a bit bolder, but without the hassle.

From left to right: Same, Caroline Constas, Hunza G

Color Me Covered Up

We couldn’t leave you without a cover up this year: bright colors are the way to go. Not only are cover-ups a great way to take a break from the sun and protect your skin, but they’re also a purchase you can easily bring into your everyday wardrobe!

From left to right: Pucci, Isa Boulder, Soleil Soleil

Whether you purchase a beachwear trend from this list or dig one out from the depths of your closet, the most important thing about going on vacation is about having fun. Whatever you choose to wear, make sure it’s something that doesn’t get in the way of all your activities, but instead helps to make them more memorable.

Article by Caroline Nycek, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets by Georgia Wallace, Graphic Design Intern, PhotoBook Magazine