Winter Swimwear: A Guide to Rocking Your Cool New Pool Look

Summer is still here, but if you’re already planning a winter sun vacation or simply aren’t prepared to give up your regular trip to the swimming pool when the cooler weather hits, we’ve got you. 

Below you’ll find the essential guide you need to rock your winter swimwear, whether on a beach, next to an indoor heated pool, or even if you’re planning on some open water swimming as the year draws to a close.

The coming season is a great excuse to upgrade your swimwear and choose a spectacular winter swimsuit. If you feel it’s time to pack away the bikini or skimpy one-piece for a few months, how about opting for a long-sleeved swim top or patterned swim tunic instead, combined with a pair of swim leggings for a comfortable, contemporary look? As well as being more suited to the season, this on-trend combo is super flattering on a variety of shapes and is practical, too: there’s no need to worry about straps slipping or anything riding up unnoticed.

For an elegant alternative look, go for a swim dress; these are gearing up to be major fashion news this year and come in a wide range of styles, designs, and cuts to suit every body size and shape. For a sporty vibe, go for a swim dress with a vest-style upper section in a bold color that comes with attached Capri leggings - this option is also perfect for those who feel more comfortable with less flesh on show.

Look for women’s swimwear styles that can be worn over a swim bra if you prefer extra support while swimming or for designs that feature in-built support. Choose swim tops, tunics, and leggings in quick-drying, breathable, high-quality fabrics that are made, ideally, from sustainable materials for comfort and convenience.

And if you’ll be jetting off to enjoy some winter sun later this year, then get started planning your beach looks now to save last-minute panics. Hot winter swimsuits that’ll be everywhere by the end of 2022 include asymmetrical one-pieces, seventies-inspired bikinis featuring the decade’s key colors and patterns (and even crochet elements), and beachwear embellished with sparkles, frills, or bows: the bigger, the better!

Look at the position of ruffles and flounces when choosing your beachwear: they’ll naturally be a draw for the eye, so position them on what you consider to be your ‘best bits,’ and they’ll also provide balance regarding the parts of your body that you might not like so much (even if these bits are, in reality, beautiful).

Women’s swim board shorts are also an easy on-trend option and look fab paired with a swim vest, bikini top, or high-necked surfer-style top. These shorts mean you won’t be spending time constantly pulling the bottom half of your swimsuit into place and can also carry you effortlessly from the beach to the poolside bar - meaning you’ll have less to pack for your vacation.

Key pool or beachside accessories include anklets and bracelets in natural materials, such as leather and shells, extra wide brim hats, and fifties-style head scarves. Keep things cool with an oversized tote beach bag in this season’s must-have navy and white stripes, and add a pair of classic Aviator shades to complete your winter sun look.

For those hardy types who continue to swim outdoors even in the chilly temperatures, winter bathing suits need even more careful consideration. Swimming outside can be dangerous, so it’s vital that you only undertake outdoor, open water swimming if you have plenty of experience doing so and are with other people, just in case of a problem or emergency. You should also ensure that the location you’re planning to swim at is safe and that you are allowed to be there.

You’ll need a high-quality wetsuit designed for cold water swimming, as well as a swimming cap or hat to protect against heat loss. Ear plugs are also recommended to prevent issues in the ear canal that can be caused by prolonged exposure to cold water. Googles, neoprene gloves and socks, and a snuggly changing robe should be used, too.

However you are planning to swim this winter, use the guide above to do so in style. Whether you’re on the beach, poolside, or lake swimming, the right swimsuit will make you feel epic inside and out, so you can get on with enjoying the season in whatever way you want to!