Perfect swimsuits for summer holidays
Whether it's the Maldives or Margate, make sure you've got the chicest swimwear on the beach
All products are chosen independently by our editors. Luxury London may earn commission on items purchased.
Finally jetting off for that much-needed foreign escape this summer? Whether you’re living it up at one of this summer’s chicest European destinations, plan to get cosy in a Cornish cottage or are praying for the weather to be kind at one of Britain’s beautiful beaches, you’ll be needing a great swimsuit. From sporty one-pieces to pretty-but-not-exactly-practical cut-out designs, here’s our guide to the best women’s swimsuits to buy for summer 2024.
The best plain swimsuits
Whether you plan to do some actual swimming in your swimsuit or simply want a design that is flattering without drawing the attention of every set of eyes on the beach, a plain swimsuit is a summer wardrobe staple. Marysia has given its one-shouldered design a pretty finish was scallop-edge detailing while Zimmermann puts the glamour back into sunbathing with its shimmering deep green number.
Melissa Odabash’s minimalist swimsuit takes a slightly more daring approach, with a flattering plunging neckline and gathered bodice that hugs and smoothes the silhouette, while Hunza G’s seersucker number features an innovative one-size-fits-all design in a shade of red that will look great with a tan.
The best colour-block swimsuits
Summer is all about colour but, if you’re going to choose a swimsuit which features a variety of hues, it’s best to keep the silhouette simple. Evarae’s belted design, for example, highlights the waist and is brilliant for hourglass figures, while Sir’s cut-out style adds length and curve to the torso. If your style tends towards the more glamorous, Norma Kamali’s panelled swimsuit offers a chicly contemporary take on animal print while Away That Day's subtle colour block design lengthens the leg while still providing comfortable coverage.
The best cut-out swimsuits
They may look scary at first but, choose the right design, and a cut-out swimsuit can be deeply flattering. Those just dipping their toe into the category should opt for Evarae's Clio swimsuit, which pairs a single central cut-out with a flattering cross neckline that adds interest while remaining demure(ish). For those willing to take on a bit of pattern, meanwhile, Agua by Agua Bendita offers a vintage-inspired cut-out design while Louisa Ballou and Johanna Ortiz turn up the heat with barely-there styles that aren't for the faint-hearted.
The best patterned swimsuits
Nothing will get you in the holiday mood faster than matching your swimwear to your destination but, even if you're not going very far this summer, why not dress for the holiday you wish you were taking? Fans wishing for long sunny days should pair Lygia & Nanny's tropical-inspired bandeau swimsuit with a mojito at sundowners. Those dreaming of sunning themselves on Mediterannean shores, meanwhile, could do worse than invest in Missoni's Italian-inspired patterns or La Double J's dolce vita swimsuit. Alternatively, wear Leslie Amon's tie dye swimsuit underneath a mid-length skirt for an elegant outfit perfect for a long lunch of wine and cheese.
The best floral swimsuits
They may be a quintessential summer print but florals come in all shapes and sizes. Compare, for example, the saccharine sweetness of Magda Butrym's roses with Loro Piana's bold blooms. Looking for a happy middle ground? Etro and Farm Rio take a less literal approach to florals with sporty one-pieces perfect for swimming laps.
