At this rather gloomy time of year, seeking out the best swimwear brands may not be the first item on your shopping agenda. However, when daylight feels fleeting and evenings stretch on endlessly, sometimes the only thing one can do to push through the darkness is to look ahead to summer – or better still, book a winter sun getaway.
Deciding on which swimsuit and bikini brands to invest for your poolside pursuits is a challenge at the best of times, not to mention when it’s freezing cold outside and nowadays the search leaves you drowning in a sea of options. From silhouettes and fabrics to fit and function, choosing the perfect swimsuit or bikini requires more consideration than a spontaneous scroll.
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Thankfully, for 2026, the quest for beach and poolside excellence is made far easier by our definitive guide. Whether you’re planning a depths of winter escape or laying the groundwork for summer travels, our carefully curated edit spans names such as Eres, Arket and Zimmermann, alongside emerging favourites including Matteau and Lisa Marie Fernandez, offering something for every itinerary – and budget.
Expect everything from the understated, sculpting minimalism of Hunza G to the bold, sun-soaked patterns synonymous with Missoni. So, if you’re in need of packing inspiration now – or simply indulging in a little escapist planning for later – read on to discover the best swimwear brands worth bookmarking and shopping now.
Hunza G
Minimalists will appreciate Hunza G’s sleek silhouettes. The ribbed fabric adds just enough detail, while the rich colourways make these timeless swimsuits feel like modern classics.
Zimmermann
Founded in 1991 by two Sydney-based sisters, Zimmermann is now a globally recognised brand. Loved for its boho inspirations, bold prints and joyful use of colour, any of its swim offering is sure to make a poolside statement.
Cos
Cos applies the same clean and directional design philosophy that defines its ready-to-wear to its swimwear. The result? Fuss-free and easy swimsuits.
Lido
Lido draws inspiration from the Italian coast, often using colours that reflect the landscape. With classic, minimal designs that are expertly crafted to complement the body, it creates certified summer staples. Plus, it prioritises local production and recycled materials – it’s a win-win.
Agua By Agua Bendita
Agua By Agua Bendita is a Colombian resort-wear label that works with local female artisans to handcraft both ready-to-wear fashion and swimwear. Its spritely, colourful designs are an instant mood-booster.
Faithfull The Brand
Since launching in 2012, Faithfull the Brand has placed importance on eco-conscious practices – and the label works closely with local artisans in Bali. The brand’s hand-crafted pieces are designed with lightness and wearability in mind.
Norma Kamali
With several decades in the game, Norma Kamali is truly a fashion industry veteran. Her swimwear range? Cut to perfection, and in understated but supremely flattering shapes.
Toteme
Looking for a form-fitting swimsuit, or a classic triangle bikini top that feels a little but luxe? Scandi label Toteme, founded by couple Elin Kling and Karl Lindman, offers numerous options.
Pucci
With statement prints and colourways reminiscent of the ’60s, more is always more when it comes to Pucci’s iconic designs. Don’t stop at the one-pieces and bikinis – have fun with a matching cover-up or sundress from the brand.
Marks & Spencer
Marks & Spencer’s approach to swimwear is much like its mainline collection – comfortable, classic and affordable. With a selection that ranges from tummy control one-pieces to string bikinis, it’s a trusted choice for swimwear that will see you through many years of travels.
Gucci Lido
If you’re in the market for a luxury investment, then look no further than Gucci Lido. Inspired by the summer spirit and complete with details like interlocking metal Gs and “GG”-printed stretch jersey fabric, these bikinis make an elegant statement.
Arket
Known and loved for its unbeatable basics, Arket is nothing short of a saviour in the swimwear category. With sleek designs that are both stylish and purse-friendly, it ticks all the boxes that good swimwear should.
Missoni Mare
The zig zag and striped patterns, that are synonymous with Missoni, embody the joy of summer. With metallic finishes and bright colours (which will look right at home on the beach), each of the designs follows a more-is-more principle.
Alaïa
Laser-cut patterns are a common detail seen across Alaïa’s ready-to-wear – and its swimwear offering comes with chic cut-outs, too. Meet Alaïa’s haute swim offering; ranging from high-waisted bikinis to sculptural cut-out cossies.
Lisa Marie Fernandez
Jet set in style with a swimsuit from Lisa Marie Fernandez. The designs stand out and fit-wise, it’s like a glove, thanks to bonded stretch fabrics and textured materials.
& Other Stories
All the best elements of & Other Stories’s DNA are transferred to its eclectic swimwear line. Expect directional silhouettes and bold colours alongside muted tones and neutrals. Whether you opt for sparkly or metallic, plain or printed, there are plenty of stand-out styles on offer.
Matteau
Ilona Hamer and Peta Heinsen, sister founders of Matteau, have mastered the art of creating simple swimsuit silhouettes. Whether you love a universally-flattering one-piece or a tried-and-true bikini, the label puts the emphasis on making sure each style offers a perfect fit.
Eres
The quality and fit of the swimsuits from the French label Eres is unmatched. With more than 40 years under its belt, the brand has mastered the art of creating the perfect one-piece, as well as comfortable, functional bikinis.
Marysia
Ex-ballerina and keen surfer, Marysia Dobrzanska Reeves, spent much of her early life wearing leotards and wetsuits, so when she launched her eponymous label in 2009, she had an intrinsic understanding of how specific materials and cuts could favour the female form. Opt for a signature scallop-hem swimsuit, or explore the wider range of classic bikinis and one-pieces.
Reina Olga
Reina Olga’s signature swimsuits are crafted from ruched fabric, specially designed to embrace the body in a comfortable and flattering fashion – without digging in. The range spans from skimpy printed bikinis to functional bathing suits that can see you through a day-long surfing session.
L’Agence
Slinky swimsuits and patterned bikinis in bold colours and beautiful prints are all part of L’Agence’s perfectly curated swimwear collection. Our favourite? The Remi one-piece that oozes poolside elegance.
H&M
H&M’s swimwear selection boasts pieces that will effortlessly blend in with the rest of your holiday wardrobe. Opt for a deliciously coloured deep red one peice, or experiment with a playful gingham check bikini. And, for beachy cover-ups to complete your look, H&M has plenty to offer – at a very accessible price.
Lounge
A must-have in your summer suitcase, Lounge’s swimwear offering is just as good as its lingerie. Choose from patterned floral swimsuits to block-coloured bikinis.
Whistles
Known and loved for all things workwear, winter coats and classic basics, it’s time to get Whistles’s swimwear on your radar. The collection is kept satisfyingly minimal and tight, with just a handful of colour options and playful, patterned styles.
Jade Swim
Jade Swim proves that minimal doesn’t have to mean boring with its eye-catching, high-shine ruched swimsuits and beautifully cut designs.
Bondi Born
Fit and durability are both key factors for Australia-based label Bondi Born. The label’s figure-sculpting one-pieces and bikinis are made with chlorine-resistant fabrics that lengthen the lifespan of each design.
Oséree
Here’s a label that believes beachwear should also be bold. The shimmering two pieces are the stars of the show, but the brand’s cover-ups and accessories are equally good.
Melissa Odabash
Melissa Odabash’s namesake label has expanded into ready-to-wear, but it’s the classic swimsuits with sophisticated details like statement buckles and flattering underwire that continue to win our hearts.
Away That Day
Expect flattering cuts and robust sustainable credentials from London-based swimwear brand Away That Day. While the brand is best known for the Cannes one-piece, which is perfectly plunging with a balconette neckline and two-tone colourway, the rest of the brand's pieces are just as covetable.
Skims
Much like its loungewear and lingerie offering, Skims’s swimwear is a masterclass in creating pieces with the female form in mind. Choose from minimal to full-coverage designs in an array of summer-worthy colourways and prints.
Rat & Boa
Rat & Boa’s bikinis come in a myriad of brightly coloured prints that would look right at home on a sun-soaked beach. Pair with your chicest sunglasses and one of the brand’s cover-ups for the ultimate holiday ensemble.
What is a high-quality swimwear material?
High-quality swimwear materials are essential for durability, comfort, and fit. Nylon and lycra blends are commonly used due to their excellent stretch and shape retention, while polyester is another durable option that is resistant to chlorine and UV rays, making it ideal for avid swimmers. Additionally, PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) is a high-performance polyester variant known for its resistance to chlorine and fading. These materials are often used by the best swimsuit brands to ensure long-lasting and comfortable swimwear.
What is the best mature swimsuit brand?
When searching for swimwear later in life, it’s important that you choose something comfortable, that makes you feel your best. Marks & Spencer is a great (and affordable) choice, offering a number of different cuts that are both comfortable and flattering. Similarly, Melissa Odabash and Matteau have a selection of swimsuits made from high-quality materials that feel smooth and are gentle on the skin.
