Your Most Important Summer Purchase Isn't a Dress—It's Swimwear. These Are the Brands Worth Investing In
These bikinis and swimsuits will last for far longer than one summer
We've all been there: reaching into the swimwear drawer only to pull out something crunchy, see-through or three sizes bigger than it was last summer. Not the best start to a holiday. Though not every swimwear piece meets this fate at the same speed. And as the chicly dressed women at Türkiye's luxury D Resort Göçek made abundantly clear during my recent Euro Summer sojourn, investment swimwear really does pay off in the long run. I watched these women swim in from superyachts, so can confirm they know exactly what they're talking about.
Price alone, however, isn't the only indicator of longevity—though I've found it to be a fairly reliable one. What we're really looking for is thicker fabric, double-lined designs (which also solves the see-through problem) and colourways less prone to fading or staining. And there's no shortage of beautiful swimsuits and bikinis up to the task.
Hunza G—mine is four years old and going strong—Vix Paula Hermanny and Calvin Klein are just a handful of tried and tested swimwear brands that genuinely last far beyond a single summer.
Though, how quickly swimwear fades is also influenced by how we care for it. Chlorine, saltwater, sunscreen and sweat can all fade and alter the colour of swimwear, so rinsing pieces through at the end of each day is always wise. A cool rinse in the sink with a touch of mild detergent will do it—on holiday, I opt for hand soap or shampoo—and after a few uses, a 30-minute soak before lying flat to dry makes a real difference. If the washing machine is non-negotiable, a handwash or delicates cycle on a cool setting will keep things clean without causing damage.
Scroll on for the swimwear pieces worth the investment.
The Best Swimwear Brands for Investment Bikinis and Swimsuits
The Eres Cassiopée swimsuit is the ultimate one-piece when it comes to bandeaus. The structure U-shape at the neckline firmly stays in place, meaning you can concentrate on your tanning.
When searching for an investment bikini, it's tempting to opt for a block colour that can be styled with a whole host of outfits. If you're searching for something a little bolder however, turn to Tory Burch with her timeless, elegant prints.
Karla Colletto takes an almost tailoring-like approach to crafting swimwear, ensuring each piece is expertly cut and has hidden scaffolding which includes power-mesh and under-wiring to sculpt and lift.
This Arabella London is one of the most flattering bikinis money can buy. The structure underwired, lightly padded cups and ruffle shoulder straps lift and flatter in the right places. The low-rise bikini bottoms with moderate coverage are super comfortable too.
This is one of the most beautiful swimsuits I've seen, appliquéd not printed to stand the test of time.
You've probably spied this bikini on a number of the best dressed women on the internet already this summer. The supportive U-wire suits both smaller and larger busts as does the classic bikini bottoms.
Alemais is my go-to label for resortwear and summer occasionwear but its swimwear is fantastic too. This ruffle-neck swimsuit is super flattering and the tie straps mean you can not only adjust for the perfect fit but take them down when tanning.
Minimalists love Toteme's paired back swimsuits. The cream and black colour palette is undeniably chic and is great for staycations or lazy boat days.
Zimmermann bikinis are as beautifully designed as they are well made. This one also comes with detachable shoulder straps.
I own a both baby blue and black Hunza G swimsuits and can confirm the darker colours look better for longer. With so many crinkles, sunscreen and food stains aren't the easiest to remove.
Heidi Gosman, founder and creative director of Heidi Klein, recently told us what to look out for when it comes to larger bust swimwear, and it's this design prowess that keeps each piece lasting far longer.
My mum owns more bikinis than anyone I know. Her longest lasting style? A beaded Vix Paula Hermanny.
Despite saying it shouldn't be worn in the water on the care label (which basically means take alot of care when wearing it and be sure to rinse it well by hand) I have never regretted buying anything Missoni let alone swimwear. For those days when you're socialising by the pool or on a boat - this stand out swimsuit will be the gift that keeps on giving.
Pucci is synonymous with holidays and beach days not to mention timeless. Style with the matching sarong or a high street steal.
