Swimwear Season Is Here — Let’s Talk About What You Should (and Shouldn’t) Be Wearing
May 21, 2026, 9:09 AM
Summer is officially knocking on the door, and that means it’s time to dust off your beach bag, slather on the SPF, and figure out what exactly you’re going to wear to the pool or beach. And yeah, that last part matters more than you might think.
Whether you’re a flip-flops-and-board-shorts kind of person or someone who treats the beach like a runway, there are a few things everyone should know before making their grand aquatic entrance this season. Let’s get into it.
First, the Basics — What Actually Counts as Swimwear?
Before we even get to what’s cute, let’s cover what’s appropriate. Proper swimwear generally means clothing specifically designed for swimming — think swimsuits, trunks, and rash guards. That’s it. That’s the list.
Street clothes, cotton T-shirts, jeans, and cut-offs are typically prohibited — and for good reason. Cotton fibers shed in the water and clog filter systems, while street clothes can transport dirt, bacteria, and dyes into the pool, affecting water clarity and chemistry. So, no — your favorite pair of denim cut-offs doesn’t count as a swimsuit, no matter how much you love them.
One absolute no-no: don’t wear undergarments to the pool. No matter how nice-looking one’s undies could be, they do not belong in the pool. They are not only inappropriate, they are very unhygienic.
Oh, and while you’re at it — always wear a clean swimsuit and ensure you’ve rinsed off any lotions or oils before entering the water. This not only maintains pool and beach hygiene but also preserves the longevity of your swimwear. Nobody wants to swim in your sunscreen soup.
What to Actually Wear — Trends Worth Knowing
OK, now for the fun part. Swimsuits are getting brighter, bolder, and more luxurious this season. Crocheted bikinis, glitzy embellishments, and colorful prints are in, as are asymmetrical cuts, more modest styles, and details that make your suit pop. It’s all about showing off the suit these days, rather than feeling like you have to expose the body inside it. And honestly? That’s a vibe we can get behind.
Here’s what’s turning heads on the beach this summer:
One-Pieces Are Having a Moment. The one-piece swimsuit is having a major moment. High-leg cuts, bold hues, and flattering silhouettes make them the must-have swimsuit style for beach days and beyond.
Metallics Are Gleaming. This season, it’s all about shine. Metallic fabrics — like shimmering silver, bronze, and pearl — bring a radiant glow to swimwear silhouettes both classic and modern. From soft sheens to bold high-shine finishes, these luminous textures turn simple styles into statement pieces.
Crochet and Boho Vibes. There’s a reason crochet remains a timeless summer staple. Its netted texture is breathable for the heat, yet relentlessly stylish. With its boho influence, crochet perfectly captures the laid-back, uninhibited spirit of the season.
Board Shorts and Rash Guards Are Cool Now. Board shorts, rash guards, and tankinis could become the unsung heroes. Fuller coverage silhouettes are gaining popularity and are a dermatologist’s dream — sun-safe and stylish. Winning on all fronts.
Color Is Everything. Bright, feel-good hues are dominating bikini trends. From hot pinks to royal blues and sunshine yellows, these colors bring instant good vibes and flatter every skin tone.
Now, Let’s Talk Opinions — Because People Have Them
Here’s where it gets interesting. TripAdvisor polled sun worshippers about swimwear etiquette, and the results are… well, very human.
The Speedo Debate. 35% of sun worshippers say men should never wear a Speedo to the pool or beach. To be fair, this is a debate that has raged since approximately 1975 and shows no signs of cooling down.
The Bikini Age Question. 13% of sunbathers believe bikinis should not be worn by women over the age of 40, while 10% think they’re inappropriate at any age. Let’s just say the other 77% have better things to worry about, and if you’ve got the confidence, wear the bikini.
Going Topless. 75% of sun worshippers think it’s acceptable for women to go topless at the beach or pool in countries where it’s culturally the norm. Meanwhile, 18% of sunbathers think it’s unacceptable at any beach or pool, period. Turns out people have strong feelings about this one — who knew?
Read the Room — Location Matters
Here’s a pro tip that shouldn’t need to be said, but here we are: tailor your swimwear choice to the occasion. Opt for more conservative styles in family-oriented or professional settings, reserving bold and trendy designs for more casual environments.
Different venues may also have specific dress codes, especially private pools or resorts. Respect these rules to maintain a harmonious atmosphere. Nobody wants to be the person turned away at the gate because they didn’t read the fine print.
And for the kids — children’s swimwear should be age-appropriate and provide adequate coverage and protection. Brightly colored swimsuits are recommended to make it easier to keep an eye on children in the water. Practical AND stylish. Done.
The Bottom Line
Swimsuit etiquette is about more than just fashion; it’s a reflection of respect for yourself and those around you. By adhering to a few key do’s and don’ts, you not only showcase your style sensibilities but also contribute to a positive and enjoyable beach or poolside experience.
So wear what makes you feel good, be mindful of your surroundings, skip the cut-off jeans, and maybe — just maybe — think twice about the Speedo. Or don’t. It’s a free country.
Happy swimming, everyone. ☀️
