Chicology Magazine

As summer gets closer, everyone needs a staple swimsuit—so here’s a full guide to help you figure out the ins and outs of swimwear. From one-pieces to bikinis to tankinis (yes, they’re making a comeback), there are so many options depending on your personal style, comfort level, and what you actually plan on doing—whether that’s swimming, tanning, or just hanging out with friends.

Let’s start with bikinis, because they’re probably the most popular option. If you want to try things on in-store or shop online, Hollister is always a solid and accessible choice. They usually have a good mix of basics and trendy styles, which makes them a great starting point if you’re still figuring out what you like. If you’re into fun, colorful, beachy patterns, Kulani Kinis is known for bright colors and playful designs that really stand out. Elysiian Swim also offers a wide variety of styles, including reversible pieces, which are perfect if you want more options without buying multiple suits.

If you’re trying to stay on a budget but still want something cute and trendy, Bright Swimwear is a great option to look into. On the higher-end side, Triangl is known for its high-quality materials and structured bikinis that tend to last longer and hold their shape really well. When picking a bikini, it’s also important to think about fit—triangle tops, bandeaus, halters, and underwire styles all give different levels of support and coverage, so it’s worth trying a few to see what you feel best in. Adjustable straps, tie sides, and mix-and-match sizing can also make a big difference in how comfortable and confident you feel.

If you’re more into one-piece swimsuits, there are honestly so many good options now that don’t feel basic at all. Riot Swim has some great options with unique cuts, movement, and subtle cutouts that make them stand out while still being wearable. One-pieces are also really versatile—they can double as a bodysuit if you throw on shorts or a skirt, which makes them super practical for beach days that turn into hanging out after.

And for tankinis—which are definitely trending again—brands like Seamolly, Hollister, and Janex Swimall have cute and comfortable options to explore. Tankinis are a really good middle-ground option if you want more coverage than a bikini but still like the flexibility of a two-piece. They’re also great if you want something easy to move around in, especially for more active beach or pool days.

Now let’s talk about patterns, because this is where your personal style really comes through. Honestly, when it comes to patterns, it’s completely your preference. If you’re going for something more edgy or Y2K-inspired, checking out places like Zumiez can be a good idea since they tend to carry bolder, trend-driven styles. If you’re more into a softer or classic look, polka dots have been trending over the last couple of months and give a really timeless vibe. Bright colors are always an easy way to make a bold statement, especially in the summer, but details like line work, abstract prints, or floral patterns can look just as put-together and eye-catching without being overwhelming.

You can also think about how patterns and colors look with your accessories—things like sunglasses, jewelry, or even your tote bag can pull a whole look together. Neutrals can feel really clean and minimal, while bright or mixed patterns can make your outfit stand out more in photos or at the beach.

Finally, let’s talk about cover-ups, because they really complete the whole look. There are so many ways to style them, and they can completely change the vibe of your outfit. You can go for skirts, oversized button-down long sleeves, or even a pair of small shorts and still make the whole look work effortlessly. Lightweight fabrics like linen, cotton, or mesh are especially popular because they’re breathable and easy to throw on over a swimsuit.

If you’re looking for places to shop for cover-ups, Amazon has tons of affordable and quick options in pretty much every style you can think of. H&M is great for simple, clean pieces that are easy to style, while Boohoo offers more trend-forward and bold options. You can also check out brands like Zara or Princess Polly for a mix of styles depending on your budget and the look you’re going for.

If you’re not sure how to style everything, looking for outfit inspiration can really help. Platforms like Pinterest and TikTok are full of outfit ideas, hauls, and try-ons that can give you a better idea of what different styles actually look like on. Influencers can also be helpful for seeing how people mix and match swimsuits with cover-ups and accessories in real life, which can make it easier to picture what you might like on yourself.

At the end of the day, the most important thing is finding a swimsuit that you feel comfortable and confident in. Trends come and go, but if you feel good in what you’re wearing, that’s what’s really going to make your summer outfits stand out.