From monokinis to swimsuits with drapes, experts tell you how to up your beach fashion game this summer.

Flaunt some skin this summer with a wide range of swimwear. Designers pick out what’s hot this season

It’s that time of the year when a little sun tan won’t hurt anyone. For the beach bums and water babies, this is the ideal time to pick your favourite swimwear and head to the seaside. For a long time, swimsuit styles were limited to monokinis or bikinis, but with time, designers across the globe have been experimenting with patterns and colours. “Maillot and high-waisted bikinis in diagonal colourblocking or drapes work perennially for the Indian body type with ample support and coverage. For those who want to experiment, strategically cut out trikinis, with one shoulder support, are the best options,” says Shivan Bhatiya of the designer duo Shivan & Narresh.

While the colour black has always been a safe bet, designers suggest myriad shades and hues to brighten your beach diaries. “While classic black is always a good option, teaming it with soft contrasts such as corals and pinks works exceptionally for those who have caramel skin tones. Also, solid colours such as yellow, blue, and eclectic prints with dark undertones also suit the Indian skin tone,” says Bhatiya.

While you can opt from a variety of styles in various colours and patterns, designers suggest that one needs to be careful while picking a swimsuit, especially when it comes to the material you opt for. “When it comes to the fabric, it is important to ensure it is chlorine resistant and suntan resistant. Also, our swimsuits are made in specially designed tummy tucker fabrics to enhance the Indian body type,” says designer Nidhi Munim.

Who doesn’t like a good fit? Designer Narresh Kukreja (of Shivan & Narresh) is of the opinion that technologically advanced materials such as Italian jerseys, which dry quickly, are resistant to harmful ultraviolet sun rays, sunscreen and body-oil, are ideal for a hassle-free swim experience and the Indian summer. “This summer we will see ’70s retro touches with wildlife inspired prints and new-age textures like leather for a glamorous appeal. You can also look out for colourblocked maillots and bikinis that have lustrous techniques,” adds Kukreja.

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES THRICE AS NICE For those who wish to experiment, strategically cut out trikinis with wildlife inspired prints, and one shoulder support, are the best options this summer. MISS SUNSHINE Solid colours such as yellow suit the Indian skin tone. Opt for a swimsuit with higher cuts around the thighs and pair it with separates such as pareos.

MIX AND MATCH A swimsuit always makes for a perfect body suit to be worn with trousers, skirts or palazzos.

TRUE BLUE Go for this powder blue high-waisted bikini with subtle fluid prints. It’s an ideal option for an hourglass body type.

PRETTY PRINTS A maillot swimsuit in eclectic prints is for those fun times on the beach.