Never Ending Summer: Why Swimwear Options This Winter Are As Diverse as Ever

The arrival of winter doesn’t need to mean putting away your swimwear! With many of us planning on jetting off for some well-deserved winter sun or keen to continue making the most of our indoor pool, gym, or spa membership, choosing cold weather swimwear or a new beach look for our winter break is more important than ever. Fortunately, it’s easier than ever, too, with diverse ranges of styles, designs, and cuts offering choices that are both fabulous and practical!

Read on to find out why there’s been an explosion of new swimwear options and to review our pick of the best styles on offer right now.

Retailers and manufacturers have now well and truly cottoned onto the fact that bodies come in a range of beautiful shapes and sizes, and this is being reflected in the variety of swimwear that’s now available. We - the buying public - increasingly expect to be able to find clothing, including swimsuits, that flatter our figure, make us feel comfortable, and reflect our personal style tastes. 

When it comes to beachwear and swim tops for women, the choices are no longer solely between a skimpy bikini or a plain one-piece. Here are some of your options:

For a perfectly on-trend look, choose a swim skirt with built-in shorts or leggings. As well as being a modern take on the classic two-piece, a swim skirt accompanied by a fitted swim tunic or surfer-style top allows you to enjoy a range of beach and water activities comfortably. Ease of movement, and peace of mind that there’s no chance of fabric slipping or riding up, are just two of the reasons that a swim skirt and top combo are so popular right now.

This type of swimwear is everywhere this year and will continue to be seen on the beaches of winter sun destinations later in 2022. The surfer look is one of the year’s key trends and, as with swim skirts, means that you can enjoy fun in the sun without needing to go back to your hotel or apartment to change between activities. Pair with a seventies-style bikini top or a racer-back short-sleeved swim top to nail the look.

There’s been a wonderful flamboyance on the catwalks this year, reflecting the new sense of freedom and optimism in the wake of the pandemic receding, and this has been especially evident in the swimwear collections modeled.

One-pieces featuring ruffles, bows, diamante embellishments, sensational cutouts, and blocks of color are big news. If this is your thing, one of these sensational styles could be perfect for your winter vacation. Top tip: oversize ruffles and flounces can be used to draw attention to the parts of your body that you like the best: such as the neckline, waist, or bust.

Wondering where to buy bathing suits in winter if you’re planning on enjoying some outdoor swimming in the chillier temperatures or know you’ll want a bit more coverage at the indoor pool? You’ve got options here, too!

For outdoor open swimming in the colder months, you’ll need the right gear: think wetsuits specifically designed to be worn in cold water, along with a swimming hat or cap, goggles, Neoprene gloves, and socks and earplugs. And don’t forget a fluffy dressing robe to snuggle up in once you’re out.

And for those who simply want to update their swimwear to better fit the season, you’re spoilt for choice. Opt for a brightly patterned long-sleeved swim top along with a pair of long swim leggings, or go for a relaxed fit swim dress with bike-style swim shorts.

And while we’re on the subject, many people wonder how to store bathing suits for winter. We can help with this, too! Start by giving your swimsuit a good wash: most will benefit from either hand washing or machine washing on a delicate cycle using a gentle detergent that doesn’t contain harsh chemicals. Next, carefully dry it: don’t wring it out or use the tumble dryer, but instead dry it flat (or on the washing line). Your swimsuit needs to be completely dry before it’s put into storage.

When it comes to where to store your swimwear, find a spot in the house that’s not humid or stuffy, and that has a fairly well-regulated temperature. Don’t store it too close to a heat source, which could damage the delicate fabric over time.

And when summer rolls around again, just give your swimsuit a wash - or even just a quick rinse - and prepare to hit the beach!