Swimwear: a first look at this summer's trends

This year, we're getting ahead of the game: we study the trends and choose THE swimsuit—one that works for us, flatters our shape, but not only that. This time, we're also buying it because we genuinely love it.

In April, it's the perfect time to look ahead to the coming season. Shops are starting to put out their first pieces, and you can already sense what will carry you through the summer.

Summer, the beach—and this year you promised yourself you wouldn't buy your swimsuit at the last minute, forced to pick the least 'terrifying' option from a station concourse shop… so follow us! Here are a few swimsuits in different shapes, colours and moods, with one message: sexy, for every taste!

The bikini was long the safe bet for summer. Yes, it's sexy, but not everyone dares to wear one: it doesn't always suit our shape, baring skin can feel daunting, and for some the beach remains an ordeal. Never mind, because the one-piece is back with a vengeance—and it's nothing like those dreary old swimsuits that weren't remotely sexy. Trust us: the new generation of one-pieces is more than sexy, and sometimes far more stylish than a simple bikini!

The one-piece was long something you put on to hide—nothing more. That cliché no longer holds. The most-seen styles this season play with clean cut-outs: a single asymmetric strap, side openings, a midriff left bare beneath a mesh overlay, edges finished with lace detailing. The black Eres swimsuit is the best example: one strap, a large sheer panel at the stomach, decorative trims for an ultra-sexy effect. It hugs the figure perfectly and hints at what's hidden… a one-piece, maybe, but one-pieces aren't what they used to be!!

In a similar vein and just as lovely, the Pain de Sucre swimsuit: this one has cut-outs at the hips and covers the stomach, with fine straps that tie around the neck and open up to a pretty neckline. The cut-out border with exotic floral motifs gives glimpses of skin… in short, more than sexy, this swimsuit is chic, refined and original all at once!

Also worth a look: the Bohème one-piece from Princesse Tam-Tam: a lovely shape, straps that cross and meet behind the neck, a little something extra… ideal for anyone who loves colour!

But for some, a bikini remains a must when you step onto the beach, so here are a few styles that caught our eye. Put simply, the high-waisted brief has firmly established itself—including among those who, five years ago, swore they'd never go back to it. It lifts the stomach, lengthens the leg and works beautifully with a classic triangle top.

The very fashion-forward black Speedo swimsuit—Speedo being the famous specialist in sports swimwear—comes from its 'Speedo fashion' line, swimsuits not just for swimming. Very fine straps, a triangle-cup bra, boy shorts: nothing too complicated, and that's exactly what makes it charming—a very understated design with a sexy, classy result.

But let's bring some colour to the beaches, because while a black swimsuit is clearly a must-have, it's just as true that once your skin is tanned, a colourful swimsuit stands out beautifully, brightens your eyes and illuminates your tan—so don't hesitate, colour is good for you!

The Caraïbes bikini from Huit has a retro mood, with orange, yellow and green flowers on a white background—perfect for a laid-back summer and tanned skin.

The Eres swimsuit in cream, with the top tying around the waist… it's hard to be more refined! And while you're there, also at Eres—because they clearly have swimwear in their blood—take a look at the doll-pink bikini, with a little white belt on the bottoms, for a Bond girl mood.

When it comes to fabric, a polyamide and elastane blend remains the most practical choice for summer. It dries quickly, doesn't crease at the bottom of your bag and copes pretty well with both chlorine and salt! Remember to rinse it in fresh water after every swim: that's what prolongs its life, far more than any product.

When it comes to budget, it all depends where you shop: expect to pay around £20–£40 in a supermarket or on an affordable high-street fashion site. In a lingerie boutique or fashion label, it's more like £45–£100. For a technical piece—swimming, extra support, recycled polyamide—budget around £55–£160.

You can find swimwear everywhere, in shops and online—including on second-hand platforms, where you can snap up barely worn pieces. Be careful, though: the price tag tells you nothing about how long it will last. A good fit and a sturdy fabric matter far more than the label.

If you're buying now, aim for a piece you'll wear for at least two summers: a good fit, a sturdy fabric, a shade that suits you. The rest is trend—and trends pass!