SWIM IN STYLE

From bandeaus, rashguards to oneshouldered, floral and tassel bikinis, treat yourself with quirky yet comfortable swimwear this summer

Olympic athlete Amanda Beard once said: “To look good in the water you have to pick the right swimsuit. I own close to 500.” Well, all the water babies out there could soak in the sun wearing Stella McCartney’s bandeau, give surfing a shot in Tommy Hilfiger’s rashguard and hipster swimwear or be a total beach bum and chill in Mara Hoffman’s colourblocking beachwear, the sky (or rather water) is the limit. With an array of swimwear and beachwear designs to pick from this summer, it’s time you get started on what’s trending this season.

“I believe a woman should always opt for something she likes and enjoys wearing. There’s something for everyone, from maillot and scuba styles to the itsy bitsy bikinis. In case you want to go safe but still want some detailing then try something with slight cuts here and there,” says fashion designer Aakriti Grover.

A GOOD INVESTMENT

Swimwear designer Nidhi Munim believes that a swimsuit is now an essential part of our wardrobe since it is not only for the pool or for the beach, but it can also be paired as a lifestyle essential — from beach, to the bar, to the cruise — it all depends on how we style it right.

Similarly, actor Evelyn Sharma, who loves beachwear, is of the opinion that when you step out to buy swimwear, it’s important you choose something that looks great on you. “Bathing suits come in all shapes and sizes, colours and patterns. Just go for something that suits your body type and skin tone,” says Evelyn.

COMFORT ZONE

The first rule when you go shopping for swimwear or beachwear is comfort, and of course your love for water. Actor Radhika Apte calls herself a water baby and enjoys her time around beaches and swimming pools. Recently, she posted a picture of herself on Instagram looking stunning in a Tommy Hilfiger full-sleeved rash guard and hipster swimswear. “I look forward to summers, especially if I am in India. It’s a great way of workout too. When it comes to swimwear, I quite like experimenting with bikinis as well as one-piece wear. I am very comfortable in what I wear because I enjoy the whole swimming experience,” says Radhika.

It’s important to have fun while you are swimming and not be conscious about your swimwear. “If you’re shy to only wear a bathing suit, get a cute skirt or kaftan with it,” adds Evelyn.

DESIGNING CHALLENGE?

If you thought buying a swimwear is difficult, imagine how hard it must be to design it. Well, for Munim it is important to keep in mind Indian body types when it comes to designing a swimwear collection. “While designing a swimwear collection you have to work as per Indian body types, keeping in mind their concerns and how we can make them feel most comfortable with our designs and detailing,” adds Munim.

Colour me bright: Hit the pool in this one piece plunge suit with cutouts and pop colourblock detailing

All about cuts: Oneshoulder swimsuits are creating waves this season. Experiment with cutouts and floral prints with this style

Radhika Apte chooses a sporty look for her day outing at the pool

Evelyn Sharma prefers a twopiece bikini as long as it’s a perfect fit on her curvaceous body, and pops in happy colours

Cover it right: Team your bikini with a skirt or a pair of lace palazzo pants to make you beachparty ready