Make way for the monokini

This summer, rewind and relax on your favourite beach dressed in the season’s nostalgic swimwear pieces inspired by the supermodel brigade of the late ’80s and early ’90s. The décolletage is so last season and makes way for the pelvage-baring numbers. Looks like, the itsy-bitsy bikini has been totally washed out by the ultra-glamorous monokini with deep and dangerous cuts.  

Designer Aakriti Grover of the label Flirtatious roots for the high-cut bottoms. “While we’re still seeing the prominence of the bum-bearing bottoms everywhere, this season’s cuts are taking a rather retro turn. Channelling the well-recognised red Baywatch suit and workout gear from the ’80s, the high-cut bottom hikes things way up to your hips to bare it all,” says Aakriti. From polka dots to smocking embroidery technique to the Spring’s breakout hue — chocolate — the swimwear looks delectable like never before. 

Designers have strongly nodded in favour of the one-shoulder strap along with ruffle detailing. “So often we find ourselves at crossroads where we have to ask, ‘Are the tan lines worth it?’ It’s the reason we fawn over criss-cross six-piece swimsuits but only purchase the bandeau bikini. A little extra detailing can go a long way when investing in swimwear. Forget plunging necklines — show off your backside assets with a large scoop-back one-piece.

Also, 2018 is bringing in belts. Whether it’s a belted bikini or an O-ring sash around the waist of a monokini, get ready to feel a little more dressed up. It definitely makes throwing together an après-swim look that much easier,” adds Grover. 

Don’t be afraid to invest in rainbow hues and tie-front tops and most importantly, be playful.

Embrace colour blocking 

Colour blocking on a bikini or one piece with a simple cut is the minimalistic approach to this season’s swimwear. It is modern, updated, trendy, and will stand out in a sea of floral suits or polka dot bikinis. And not to mention it’s insanely slimming. For an extra cool factor, one should try colour blocking in contrasting hues like black or white.

Designer Nikhil Thampi says, “Neutral — one pieces are the skinny jeans of swimsuits. So one should make sure you have a go-to one piece that has a flattering cut and fits well. Strapless may be good for the tan lines, but it’s really worth it when you want to go off the diving board. To stand out even in the classic piece, opt for small details and cutouts, geometric prints or a textured material like crochet.”

Best year for swimwear

Designer Rhea Pillai Rastogi opines that 2018 has by far been the best year for swimwear yet. “With brands pushing for body positivity and absolutely no rules to the game, between barely there bikinis to vintage onesies, there is a swimwear style out there for every single woman,” says Rhea. 

Move over minimalism 

Spring Summer 2018 makes a strong case for maximalism over minimalism, with the key inspiration of tribal and graphic bold prints, contrasting seams and sexy cutouts. Designer Shivani Awasthy says, “Layer swimwear with embroidered statement beach cover ups and flowy printed maxis. To stay dialled in on the SS 2018 swimsuit trends if you are going in for either a one piece, bikini/monokini or a beach maxi dress opting for a bright graphic print with flattering cutout is the best way to make a statement. The sheer embroidered sarongs, shift dress beach cover-ups or bold printed maxi dresses are the best add-on for swimsuits.”

Art of accessorising 

Wear printed capes or oversized lightweight shirts over monochrome swimwear or solid colours over printed swimwear. Designer Suman B of label Lola suggests, “Throw in a great pair of sunglasses or a piece of statement jewellery to further accessorise while attending a pool party.”