Swimwear Trends For 2011

Its getting hot, so have you started looking for that perfect swimsuit this season? Before you go out and shop, look at what designers are saying are the best looks for the summer of 2011.

You may not be able to afford what the models are wearing on the catwalk in Milan, but you can find swimwear that comes a close second in major department stores and specialty swimwear shops. Let’s take a peek at the top 7 trends this year.

Be bold and colorful. Bright colors are back in a big way. They draw attention to you and say “I am confident.
Whether choosing one-piece swimwear or a bikini, go for a mix of bright pinks, yellows, blues and the like.


Patterns set the tone. Aztec print or geometric designs? Busy swimsuits place the emphasis everywhere and nowhere at the same time. Another pattern trend is cutout suits. These suits leave large geometric openings in the fabric down the center, on the side, and in the back, feeling like you’re wearing abstract art.

Ruffle accents. Ruffles add a bit of flirtacious style to swimwear. Big girls want to have a sexy look while still feeling all girly and cute, too.  Ruffles on skirted bottoms can give hips a little curvy fun while still offering some concealing tricks.  Around the neckline ruffles can enhance a smaller bust.

The plunging neckline. Remember old Hollywood and the bathing suits they wore by the pool? They were more for beauty than swimming. Large hats, sunglasses and a halter-type swimsuit that made the waist look smaller and the cleavage more noticeable is the new look for this season. One-piece swimsuits with those long silhouettes are making a comeback.

Earth tones. Swimwear in muted tones that match skin tones are another trend this year. It is the minimalist look. With muted earth tones being so subtle, you’ll often see ruffles, side ties, pleats and other accents to add style and flare.

50’s Retro look. This is the 50s kind of look that includes splashy polka dots and gingham, thin straps and full coverage. This will include full boy-cut bottoms and built up bra tops.  Picture Marilyn Monroe in “Some Like It Hot.”

One shoulder. Show your glamourous side with one shoulder strap swimwear. Whether one-piece or two, holding everything up with one strap (thin or wide and stylish) seems to be the way to go.  You’ve seen this style more and more in evening gowns this year and now it’s come to swimwear.

What are you wearing this season? Can’t decide? Go ahead and pick one style swimsuit to lounge in and one style to frolic in. These seven fashion trends make swimsuit shopping so exciting, you may have to choose all seven.