The Best Swimsuit Trends for Summer 2026, Straight From the Swim Week Runway
The Best Swimsuit Trends for Summer 2026, Straight From the Swim Week Runway
Statement hardware and bold accents
From bikinis with shimmery or shell accents to bold, statement-making pieces adorned with strands of beads, statement hardware and eye-catching accents are sure to turn heads at the beach this summer.
Cut-outs and monokinis for the win
When you want the coverage of a one-piece but are feeling a little sassy, reach for a cut-out suit or a monokini. As seen on the Swim Week runways, this silhouette is anything but boring.
Animal print is always in style
Dare we say animal print is a neutral? Whether you prefer cheetah or tiger print, this pattern always belongs in your swimwear wardrobe.
A model walks the runway for Salty Mermaid Swimwear during Swim Week | Jason Koerner/Getty Images
A tiny string bikini slays every time
When it comes to picking out a swimsuit, keep SI Swimsuit editor in chief MJ Day’s No. 1 piece of advice in mind where beachwear is concerned: smaller is always better.
Maura Higgins. Swimsuit by ENEZ. Sarong by L’AGENCE. | Emily Sidney Photography
(Anything but basic) black
No matter the silhouette, a black swimsuit is a staple that will keep you looking timeless. So, when you’re packing your suitcase to head abroad this summer, be sure to pack at least one.
Brooks Nader. Swimsuit by Vesey. | Emily Sidney Photography
Nautical elements
Not to be too on the nose, but nautical elements—think seashells, stripes and coral reef motifs—simply belong by the seashore. Like Earle, you can rock a subtle nod to the theme or go full ocean scenery as seen on a few models from the Oceanus runway.
Alix Earle. Swimsuit by NIIHAI. | Ivan Apfel/Getty Images
Seeing red
We may be biased (hello, Brooks Nader and Olivia Dunne!), but Baywatch-inspired swimwear is always en vogue. A classic red one-piece or a string bikini top with sporty boy shorts is super sporty and cool.
Sarah Jane Nader, Mary Holland Nader, Brooks Nader and Grace Nader. All swimsuits by MADIBU. | Alexander Tamargo/Getty Images for Sports Illustrated
