Swim of the Summer

My childhood summers will never be topped. We were on boats before we learned how to swim, and jumping off cliffs before we were old enough to drive. Every summer was the same: the whole day spent in the ocean, you come home purple, jump straight into the hot tub, shower, grill, sleep, do it again. The greatest feeling in the whole world. This lifestyle has given me the credentials of years of swimsuits that I have tried and tested to find the perfect ones. 

There is a very specific magic that happens when you find the swimsuit. The one that makes you want to stay in the water longer, walk around without anything else on, and take a million photos. I have been chasing this feeling my entire life, and I will continue to do so.

From my years of dedicated research, I have discovered that the best swimsuit shopping happens right after you leave the beach with a slight burn, salt-matted hair, and slight heatstroke. It’s like grocery shopping hungry. 

That’s exactly how this edit was born. In my post-beach delirium during spring break, I collected eight suits that passed the test. These include a variety of styles and prices, with high quality, lasting sets, and sustainably made. 

Indah Clothing Koh Top and Samui Bottom

Let me tell you about macramé done right. The top alone takes over a week to make by hand, with each piece being cut into fabric strips and woven into a diamond pattern in Bali. In the Goldi color, it catches the most beautiful light and makes you look like a mermaid. Ties securely at the back, fully adjustable, and fully worthy of obsession.

Indah Clothing Dixie Top and Shelly Bottom

Indah does Bali-made swim the right way, handcrafted, cut and built to last for consecutive summers. The Shelly is cheeky (they warn you, and they mean it) and it’s perfect. The silhouette is vintage-inspired, and spun with a unique yarn that holds its shape when wet. 

Anooa / Mise Label Luchi Bikini Set in Brown

With Italian pearl beads at the center, an underwire bust, ruched balconette cut, and insane brown color, it supports you as much as it flatters you. Brown swimwear has been gaining popularity because of the magic it does to any skin tone, and this one is a perfect example of universally flattering. 

Bamba Swim Malibu Top and Amore Bottoms

This set has that easy, California slouch that looks so effortless and stays in place so well. I cannot explain my love for Bamba swim, and this set is one that I do endorse from experience. It’s simple and sleek and built for giving you the best tan lines and staying on for swims. This shade of maroon also photographs like a dream against golden skin and white sand. 

Bamba Swim Ursula Top and Rio Bottoms in Alligator

This set hits the waist exactly right, with the most unique print and ideal coverage. Rio is the hottest bikini capitol in the world, and with this set on, you will be turning heads wherever you are. 

Horse & Berries Eternal Top and Elba Bottom in Root

Root is the color of the earth after it rains, a dried fig left in the sun, and a really sick leather bag. This set is the earthy anchor to any good swim collection. So simple, perfect for tanning, and the coolest base to any all-white outfit. 

Gooseberry Intimates So Chic One-Piece in Cassis

I have done extensive one-piece research, and have yet to find a more flattering choice. The one-piece is everywhere, and for good reason. It’s simple, sexy, sculpting, and genuinely does stay on in the water. I recently discovered this deep, inky-purple black color that reminds me of the south of France. Purchased.

Tropic of C The Sculpting C in Black

Made from recycled materials, built to last, and cut to feel a simple black one-piece feel fresh, the Sculpting C is designed for the girl that swims past the brake until she's fried and pruned. This piece is rare in its ability to function and look insanely cool.

At the end of the day, the right suit does not make the summer, but it most certainly helps. My advice is to try one of these eight options, book the trip, stay in the water until your fingers prune and your skin is fried. There is no better feeling.

Xoxo,

Annie