Make a splash

Pool party? Beach barbecue? Dayclub? (That's a thing, right?) Going out in the summer often means being in a bathing suit for part of the time. We’re all for showing off whatever you’ve got but spending the entire day in a bikini can feel a little naked – and we’d rather take the opportunity to get creative with our coverups. This isn’t about a swimsuit-and-coverup situation, though. This is about the full outfit.

Ahead, we’re decoding the season’s hottest swimwear trends and showing you how to wear them with wardrobe basics and coverups that always work, and more.

The high-spirited energy of summer continues to prevail in slinky fits, bare midriffs, and acid hues. Let your bathing suit take centre stage when building your outfit and try clashing neon brights with a boldly patterned button-down for maximum impact. Complete the look with your favourite beach bag and statement heels (cue Loewe’s iconic Rose-heel sandals) for striking sex appeal.

You can still get play out of your swimsuit when you're not waterside. Break out a medium-coverage swimsuit, and lean into ruffles, and bows for a charmingly romantic approach to beachwear. Pro tip: accentuate your waistline with pareos or caftans in breathable fabrics. They’re your finishing touch to your resort-ready outfit, and the layer you’ll need to slip into in between tanning sessions.

Take a minimalist approach and channel elegant French Riviera ease with barely-there straps or two-tone silhouettes. No matter the exact style, minimalist swimwear draws its appeal from subdued colour palettes, clean and seamless cuts, and subtly textured fabrics that add intrigue. Stock up on lightweight tailoring – bonus points if you wear yours open to reveal your bikini top underneath – and team with chunky gold accents to take you from beach to party in an instant.