The Hottest Swimwear Trends for 2022: What to Wear Now
From crochet bikinis to strappy cut-outs and sparkly suits, these swimwear trends are redefining summer style in 2022.
Swimwear Trends Emergence: 2022’s Defining Summer Looks
After a long-awaited turn towards brighter, warmer days, 2022’s swimwear trends deliver a vibrant mix of nostalgia, bold design, and unabashed celebration of self-expression. Whether you’re sunbathing poolside, heading to a tropical resort, or just want to refresh your beachwear drawer, this year’s standout trends ensure there’s something for every style personality. Expect a distinct departure from strict minimalism, with daring details, lavish textures, and an emphasis on individuality making up the core of this season’s most-wanted swim looks.
Table of Contents
- Crochet All Day
- Strappy Ties
- Cut-Outs
- Barely-There Bikinis
- Sparkly Swimsuits
- Frequently Asked Questions
Crochet All Day: The Handmade Revival
The crochet swimwear trend has returned and is more coveted than ever. Spotted everywhere on the runways—especially in collections from Anna Sui and Etro—crochet’s bohemian textures and playful designs have taken over both beaches and poolsides. This handcrafted style reflects a retro, ‘70s-inspired spirit while balancing artisan charm with modern silhouettes.
- Texture & Pattern: Expect everything from intricate granny-square bikinis to minimalist netted one-pieces.
- Vibrant Colors: Bold hues, especially tangerine, turquoise, and color-blocked patterns dominate, ensuring your beach look never fades into the background.
- Standout Pieces: Look for shell-embellished triangle tops, halterneck bikinis, and sets with adjustable features for comfort and style.
Pro tip: Pair your crochet top with denim shorts or a breezy linen cover-up for a laid-back après-swim outfit.
Highlight Pieces:
- Anna Sui’s signature crochet bikini (seen all over major fashion editorials)
- Zimmermann’s shell-trimmed triangle halters
- Vix Firenze’s boho tops with underwire support and adjustable, cheeky bottoms
- Akoia Swim’s color-pop crocheted cotton styles
All Tied Up: The Era of Strappy Ties
Strappy swimwear is dominating racks everywhere, infusing a sense of drama and creativity into both the bikini and one-piece silhouettes. These aren’t just your basic strings—this look is all about strategic, wraparound lacing, multi-tie waists, and asymmetric crisscross details that instantly amplify visual interest.
- Body Framing: Ties crisscross along the torso, wrap around the waist, and even climb up the back, creating a sculpted effect that highlights curves and edges.
- Endless Versatility: With tie placements that can often be customized, everyone can find a unique way to wear these designs.
- Runway Vibes: Chromat’s runway showcased ultra-strappy bikinis—sometimes with up to six different ties—for a daring, modern look.
Style it: Let the straps peek from beneath an unbuttoned shirt, or layer on minimalist gold jewelry for a subtle glam upgrade.
Trend Spotting:
- Multi-strap triangle tops and bottoms
- Strappy one-pieces with plunging necklines and low backs
- Convertible designs where ties can be rearranged for different looks
What others are reading
Cut-Outs: Architectural Swim Sensation
The cut-out swimwear trend continues to redefine sexy and sculptural silhouettes. Creative cut-outs in both one-pieces and bikinis are central this season, turning classic shapes into statement pieces that feel thoroughly modern and a little bit rebellious.
- Unexpected Placement: Look for side slashes, mid-torso openings, keyholes, and angular cutaways that enhance natural contours without sacrificing comfort.
- Balance & Support: Modern cut-outs are strategically constructed to maintain support, so you won’t have to worry about your swimwear staying put.
- Influencer Favorites: Instagram is ablaze with influencers showing off one-pieces featuring bold geometric sections and bikinis with minimalist, yet high-impact, negative space.
Insider’s tip: When trying cut-out suits, opt for thicker, high-quality fabrics that hold their structure and provide reassurance in and out of the water.
Cut-Out Highlights:
- Asymmetrical one-shoulder suits
- Hourglass and oblique cut-outs on high-waist bottoms
- Underbust and side-strap cutaway bikinis
Barely-There Bikinis: Minimal Meets Bold
Micro bikinis or barely-there swimsuits are back with a vengeance in 2022, turning up the heat for those ready to embrace the body-celebrating minimalism trend. Think Nineties supermodel vibes with ultra-slim straps, minimal coverage, and unapologetically bold designs.
- Tiny Triangles: Triangle tops and bottoms are shrunk down for a sleek, leggy look that channels classic beach-glam.
- String Details: Thin, barely-there side ties and adjustable cups make for the most customizable—and risqué—fit.
- Rising Confidence: The barely-there trend is about body positivity, owning your look, and stepping out with confidence, regardless of body shape or size.
Confidence boost: These suits are often paired with matching cover-ups or oversized accessories for added balance and coverage when you want it.
What’s Hot:
- Classic Brazilian cuts and high-leg bottoms
- Metallic and neon micro sets
- Layered looks with overcover skirts or pareos
Sparkly Swimsuits: Shine On
If there’s a swimwear trend that embodies celebration, it’s sparkly swimsuits. 2022’s take on glitz isn’t reserved for after-dark—designers are bringing rhinestones, metallic sheens, glittery fabrics, and iridescent hues to the pool and shore, encouraging everyone to make a statement at every summer gathering.
- All-Over Shine: Shimmering materials, sequined embellishments, and glossy vinyl take bikinis and one-pieces to the next level.
- Light Play: Sunlight accentuates these fabrics beautifully, causing suits to glisten and change color as you move. Perfect for pool parties or glamorous getaways.
- Bling Details: Sparkly ties, bejeweled straps, and high-gloss hardware add a luxe finish to any suit.
Styling tip: When rocking a sparkly suit, keep other accessories understated to let the suit take center stage, or go all out and coordinate with sparkly sandals and a metallic sarong for a full-on glam moment.
Glimmering Picks:
- Rhinestone-adorned triangle tops
- Metallic one-pieces in silver or bronze
- Luxe class with gold-threaded bandeaus and jewel-embellished straps
Comparison Table: 2022’s Top Swimwear Trends
| Swimwear Trend | Distinct Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Crochet | Handmade appearance, retro, colorful, textural | Boho-chic lovers, festivals, statement looks |
| Strappy Ties | Multiple adjustable ties, wrap-around effect, creative layering | Those who love to experiment, mix & match versatility |
| Cut-Outs | Strategic negative space, geometric shapes | Modern, bold beachgoers, day-to-night versatility |
| Barely-There Bikinis | Slim coverage, minimal lines, high legs | Confident style stars, minimalists, sun lovers |
| Sparkly Swimsuits | Glitter, rhinestones, metallic finishes | Party goers, poolside glamour, special occasions |
Inclusivity and Fabric Focus for 2022
This year’s swimwear collections are not only about trends but also celebrate inclusivity, comfort, and innovation in material. Brands are expanding size ranges, using regenerated and eco-friendly textiles such as recycled nylon and polyester, and introducing advanced elastics to ensure durability and stretch for all-day wear. Plus, brands are prioritizing adjustable components—think self-tie straps and flexible waists—to cater to diverse body silhouettes.
- Range of Sizes: Many designers now offer inclusive sizing, ensuring everyone finds the perfect fit.
- Sustainable Fabrics: New eco-materials help reduce environmental impact while maintaining style and comfort.
- Durability: Fabrics like polyester resist shrinking and wrinkling, ideal for repeated water and sun exposure.
Swimwear Styling Tips
- Layer with Confidence: Flowy cover-ups, high-waisted skirts, or oversized linen shirts complement most swim styles.
- Accessorize: Sunglasses, straw hats, and chunky jewelry can transform your look from swim to street in seconds.
- Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to combine trends—pair a sparkly bikini top with crochet bottoms, or add strappy ties to a classic cut-out piece for a unique ensemble.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are crochet swimsuits practical for swimming?
A: Most modern crochet swimwear lines are lined with fast-drying fabrics and maintain support in water, making them functional as well as fashionable. However, always check for lining and stretch when purchasing for active swimming.
Q: How do I choose the right cut-out swimsuit for my body type?
A: Choose cuts that flatter your shape; for example, hourglass and oblique cut-outs sculpt the waist, while asymmetrical designs draw the eye upward, balancing proportions. Adjustability in straps and fabric stretch matters for comfort and fit.
Q: Which trend is best for plus-size or curvier bodies?
A: Every trend is adaptable, but crochet and cut-out suits with wider straps, adjustable features, and high-quality fabrics often provide extra support and coverage. Many brands now offer inclusive sizing and tailoring for the perfect fit.
Q: Are sparkly swimsuits hard to care for?
A: Rhinestones and metallic fabrics may be delicate—always hand wash or use a gentle cycle, avoid rough surfaces, and let them air dry to preserve shine.
Q: How can I make my swimwear last all summer?
A: Rinse immediately after exposure to chlorine or salt water, air dry away from direct sunlight, and rotate between several styles to reduce wear. Choosing durable fabrics also extends longevity.
Wrapping Up: Where Self-Expression Meets Summer Fun
2022 swimwear is all about playfulness and confidence. Whether you’re a fan of bohemian crochet, crave sculptural cut-outs, are obsessed with runway-ready sparkles, or love the effortless vibe of barely-there bikinis, there’s a trend that celebrates your personality and empowers you to step out in style this season. Don’t forget: the best trend is the one that makes you feel like your best self at the beach, pool, or wherever the sun takes you.
References
- https://www.whowhatwear.com/2022-swimwear-trends
- https://www.cosmopolitanme.com/fashion/2022-swimwear-trends
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/fashion/g38822239/swimwear-trends-2022/
- https://openlab.citytech.cuny.edu/lperezmatos-e-portflio/files/2023/11/FINAL-Trend-Report-Lori-perez-China-Part-one.pdf
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/fashion/style/a65537578/heavy-manners-swimwear/
- https://www.scribd.com/document/603679403/Cosmopolitan-UK-JuneJuly-2022-UserUpload-Net
- https://cosmopolitansunshop.com/en-gb/blogs/news/tagged/summer
- https://leftonfriday.com/pages/press
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