The weather is hotting up and it’s time to get ready for summer holidays and trips to the beach. This means that the hunt is on for the perfect little swimsuit to wear! To help make the decision that little bit easier, we’ve put together our pick of the favourite styles and shapes.

Nautical

The nautical look has been a firm favourite in the summer style stakes for many years now and it’s showing no signs of disappearing. The beauty of the nautical look is that the horizontal stripes are actually very flattering and create a great shape on women. Many girls are scared to wear stripes for fear that it will make them look bigger. In the case of the nautical stripe, the stripes accentuate the waist and bust, giving a desirable, curvy shape. What we love about the Peachgrove Bikini is the cherry red piping and back which contrasts boldly against the thick navy and white stripes.

Peachgrove Bikini, from Crew Clothing

Colour Blocking

This season is heralding the colour block trend of contrasting bold, vibrant colours next to each other. Why not flaunt this trend with a block stripe bikini? A swimsuit with bold navy, white and hot pink stripes will get you noticed but once again, this should flatter your shape and complement your curves.

Colour block bikini, from Crew Clothing

Polka Dots

After a fun and flirty swimsuit?  Why not try a 50s style polka dot two-piece?  This type of garment was first made famous in 1951 when Marilyn Monroe posed in a polka dot bikini. The two-piece that she modelled was very modest in comparison to modern styles and included frilly detailing on the neckline and across the body. The bottoms came right up to the waist, leaving the belly button hidden. This is much different to the styles we’re seeing now. Modern polka dot bikinis have moved away from the white fabric with big black dots to smaller, white dots in myriad colours. The shape has significantly changed too, moving away from heavy frills into streamlined halter necklines and tie-side, low rise bottoms. The turquoise and white polka dot bikini is a playful, modern take on the original 1950s bikini. If you want to cover up but still look glamorous on the beach then try the dotty swimming costume with a big 1950s style polka dot pattern. This particular one piece is highly flattering as it covers the stomach and has a plunging neckline with tie detail at the bust which accentuates curves and draws attention to the right places!

Polka dot swimwear, from Crew Clothing

Tankinis

The other option that girls have for covering up is the tankini. These are more versatile as the top can be worn as a top in its own right with a pair of denim hotpants or board shorts for that beach girl vibe. The halter neckline and metal ring detail of the neck and bottoms of the Lemon Grove tankini and the vibrant cobalt blue shade of the suit make it stand out from the crowd whilst being a comfortable and flattering fit.

Lemon Grove Tankini, from Crew Clothing