Trendy swimwear 2026: the models to adopt this summer
The Espace des Marques Team | Updated on May 29, 2026
Every summer has its essentials, but 2026 marks a real turning point in the world of swimwear. There's a return to comfort and simple elegance, but also a strong desire for personal expression through colours, cuts and prints.
Whether you're a minimalist, a daring woman or a fan of sporty chic, the 2026 swimwear trends offer real freedom. And that's probably what makes them so interesting this year.
Top women's swimwear trends in 2026
The return of the elegant 1-piece swimming costume
Long perceived as "wise", the women's 1-piece swimming costume is now establishing itself as an ultra-fashionable piece. It structures the figure, elongates the lines and can be as sexy as a bikini, without ever overdoing it.
In 2026, you'll find it with :
- asymmetrical cut-outs
- deep halter tops
- sheathing yet comfortable fabrics
- jewelled or draped details
This is clearly the model you'd wear on the beach or by the pool with denim shorts or an open shirt. It's the perfect embodiment of the swimwear lifestyle.
High-waisted bikinis still on trend
The good news is that high-waisted bottoms are still an essential. They're seductive because they're flattering, comfortable and reassuring for many body types.
What's changing in 2026 are the combinations:
- revisited triangle tops
- chic sports bras
- ribbed or sculpting textures
- more graphic cut-outs
- 2-piece mix and match
This is a bikini that is no longer just about "slimming" or "sheathing the tummy", but about accompanying a woman's body as it is, with each woman's own style.
Bandeau tops: a discreet but powerful trend
One of the key trends for women in 2026 is the bandeau swimming costume top.
Minimalist, uncluttered and highly aesthetic, they are appealing for a number of reasons:
- it prevents tan lines
- it gives a very modern, feminine look
- it works just as well as a classic bikini as a structured version with underwiring for generous breasts
- It can be dressed up with ruffles or draping to add volume to small breasts
It's often paired with high-waisted bottoms or low-cut knickers for a 90s revisited look. It's a simple shape, but one that immediately gives a more fashionable look to a beach silhouette.
The key colours of summer 2026
Colours always tell a story, and this year they're particularly warm and soothing.
The must-have shades :
- Chocolate: Deep, elegant, almost gourmand. It's THE sophisticated colour of the season.
- Orange: Vibrant, sunny, energising. Immediately gives you a healthy glow.
- Terracotta: Very natural, between earth and sun, perfect for a modern bohemian look.
- Pastel: Powder pink, sky blue, lilac... soft shades that bring freshness.
- Timeless black: Always there. Timeless, chic and reassuring. Black remains a safe bet.
Prints dominating the season
In 2026, prints are becoming more assertive, but still elegant.
- Tropical: palm trees, exotic flowers, an instant holiday feel.
- Leopard: still present, but softer and more elaborate
- Minimalist: graphic shapes, clean lines, design spirit
- Retro stripes: a nod to the 70s and seaside elegance
Fashion tip? Make a mix and match outfit with a printed top and plain bottoms, or vice versa. Less clutter means more style!
Men's swimwear trends in 2026
On the men's side, we're seeing a real move towards more stylish pieces that are less strictly 'sporty'.
Retro swim shorts
Inspired by the 70s and 80s, these are making a comeback, with shorter cuts, elasticated waistbands and sometimes bold patterns. They give a real vintage holiday feel.
Short cuts
More modern and minimalist, these cuts are ideal for those who want a simple but neat style. They enhance the figure without overdoing it.
Sportswear inspirations
Direct influence of sports brands: technical fabrics, contrasting stripes, maximum comfort. A dynamic, contemporary aesthetic.
Exotic prints
Very much in evidence in 2026, exotic prints are also making their mark in men's collections. Jungle inspirations, XXL flowers, luxuriant foliage and motifs inspired by faraway islands. It's a very strong print in 2026, perfect for those who want an assertive, vibrant holiday look.
The most popular swimwear brands in 2026
Some brands continue to dominate trends thanks to their ability to combine style, comfort and innovation.
These include :
- Nike for its sports and performance models
- Adidas with its sports-inspired swimwear lines
- Calvin Klein for its minimalist, modern basics
- Calzedonia for its trendy women's swimwear
- Banana Moon for its colourful summer style
- Sun Project : for its modern swimwear, with contemporary cuts and summery inspirations.
These brands remain popular because they appeal to a wide range of styles, from sporty to fashionable.
Where can I buy designer swimwear for less?
It's a question that many people ask, especially in the face of rising textile prices.
The good news is that there are several ways to buy designer swimwear at reduced prices:
- Specialist stock clearance sites (such as multi-brand outlet platforms)
- End-of-collection sales
- private sales
- Official brand outlet sections
The important thing is to check the quality of the materials: a good swimming costume should retain its elasticity, colour and fit even after several swims.
Summary of 2026 trends
The 2026 swimwear trends confirm a global desire: to feel good without sacrificing style. Comfort is becoming as important as aesthetics, and both cuts and colours are following this softer, more natural logic.
Whether you choose an elegant 1-piece swimming costume, a high-waisted 2-piece or retro men's swim shorts, discover our wide selection of brand-name swimwear at outlet prices on Espace des Marques: the fashion and sports clearance expert.