TAKE TO WATER
Counting down to summer, we asked the experts what they look for when choosing swimwear. By Zara Wong.
Counting down to summer, we asked the experts what they look for when choosing swimwear.
KARINA PETRONI, SURFER
Being a professional surfer means Karina Petroni is always near, or in, the water. A favourite label at the moment is Xmax by Mike Blackwood, as seen here in the Bahamas. “It’s the perfect blend of sexy and classic. Their one-pieces are on point! Since I’m quite tall and small-chested, I look for great cuts for a long torso and small bikini tops and bottoms that are simple, sexy and classic.”
ROSIE WARD DENSEN OF WARD WHILLAS
“My current favourite swimwear style is our new Beaumont one-piece – a really flattering cut with a keyhole neckline.”
HALEY BOYD, MARAIS DESIGNER
“I love Australian brand Ephemera. The quality is impeccable, their highwaisted bottoms are the perfect cut, and the colours are divine,” says designer Haley Boyd, of shoe label Marais. Her preferred shape is high-waisted bikinis. “I have an hour-glass shape so they are ultra-flattering.”
JASMINE LINDSAY OF JASMINE AND WILL
For Jasmine Lindsay, of lifestyle label Jasmine and Will, Eres is her pick and one-pieces in black or white are her preference, particularly those with a low back – “refined but still sexy”.
RAJVEER JOHAL, PHOTOGRAPHER
As a landscape photographer who focuses ono beach images, Rajveer Johal prefers a paddle suit. “Brands like Mara Hoffman and Beach Riot elevate traditional paddle suits with bold prints and interesting cuts.”
DEBORAH SYMOND, OWNER OF MODE SPORTIF
As the owner of luxury athleisurewear e-tailer, Deborah Symond leans towards swimsuits that can withstand water sports like paddle boarding and water skiing, a brief fulfilled by Lisa Marie Fernandez’s classic neoprene bikini. For the more relaxed lounging around it’s Totême’s geometricprinted swimsuit with coordinating towel – “perfect for that beach-to-bar transition!” says Symonds. “I look for double-lined fabric in lighter colours and tend to opt for a minimal cut. For one-pieces, I look for a fine strap and a low-cut back.” She also wears her one-pieces as bodysuits, teaming them with relaxed pants, high-waisted shorts or even a sheer floor-length dress for evening.
SARA FULLER, CO-OWNER OF PAM PAM SWIM
Owning a dedicated swim and resort store means Sara Fuller has her pick of the best swimwear: Marysia Swim, Lisa Marie Fernandez and new label Hunza G x Pandora Sykes. “I always choose swimsuits that make a statement, and they must be fashionable, unique pieces.”
HANNAH GROSSBERG, ILLUSTRATOR
“I look for swimwear through creative lenses,” says Hannah Grossberg, who is launching a textiles and resortwear line. With design, she is fascinated by colour. “Particularly how in natural light it can brighten and illuminate any person and their spirit.”
HANNAH BRONFMAN, DJ AND FOUNDER OF HBFIT
“I’m known for hoarding bikinis!” says Hannah Bronfman, whose personal and brand mantra extols health and fitness. “Right now I like a swimsuit that is cut a bit higher – like the 80s cuts.” For bikinis, she recommends Are You Am I, “because it hits my curves in the perfect spots and the tops are smaller than most, which is great for a smaller chest like mine”.
ILONA HAMER OF MATTEAU
“I love a simple black triangle bikini with classic-cut briefs. It’s my version of jeans and a T-shirt for the beach: low key, effortless and easy. It’s uncomplicated with room for personal touches.”
ALICIA WHILLAS OF WARD WHILLAS
“I love thoughtful, unique details and a flattering, sophisticated silhouette.”
BONNIE O’HARE OF RYE
“My favourite style is definitely a twopiece with a splash of colour. I love seeing swimwear beneath an outfit; that taste of summer peeping through suggests anything is possible.”
ALYSSA CARTER OF RYE
“My favourite swim style is a cheeky-cut brief. I look for whatever feels right. High-cut, hipster, side boob, whole boob – it’s all about finding something fabulous to flash summer in!”