Into the Swim of Things

Summer has landed. Got your swimsuits lined up? Look cool when the temperature’s hot with proudly South African poolside trends.

Thankfully, 2019 ushered in a welcome body-positive movement and swimwear has stepped up to meet this reality. Beautifully bright, loud, proud and print-strong? No problem. A simple, quiet and calm single colour in a costume that works as a bodysuit? We’ve got you. In a sea of prints, shapes and sizes, here’s a roundup of the finest, freshest pool-ready kit from our very own shores.

Pichulik Alegria pendant, R890, pichulik.com Pichulik’s bold rope jewellery is the perfect summer accessory. Pieces from SS 20 collection “Plenty” feature pops of coral, Pantone’s Colour of the Year.

Mungo Folly Beach Towel in Fiddler Crab, R870, mungo.co.za The first batch sold out within a couple of weeks, so best you get your hands on this joyful 100% cotton towel designed, woven and finished in SA.

Kimono Africa Peridot Green Linen Kimono, R899 (sizes 34-38), shopkimono.co.za This linen kimono taps directly into a carefree, breezy holiday mood. You can picture yourself swishing around in it all day.

Granadilla Swim Dune Surfer Blue, R740 (sizes XS-XXL), granadillaswim.com Granadilla Swim makes the most fun, graphic shorts. This pair paints a picture that happily reminds us of a Kenesha Sneed illustration.

Akina Lilah straight neckline swimsuit, R1200 (sizes XS-XL), akinalabel.com Using eco fabrics and an ethical factory, Akina has its priorities straight: It offers a range of beautiful, simple swimwear that’s eco-friendly, too.

Beach Cult Lyra Mustard Karoo two-piece, bottom R490, top R1100 (sizes S-L), beachcult.co.za Hello high-waisted bottoms (because who doesn’t love a bit of bum and belly support?), and a top with underwire cups and adjustable straps.

Woolworths Chevron Tie Front one-piece, R399 (sizes 4-20), woolworths.co.za Your retro dreams have come true – sealed with a bow in a cute tie front. This swimsuit serves Paddle Pop joy, sans stickiness.

Temple of Reason Multi Temperament shorts, R750 (sizes S-XXL), temple-of-reason.com Temple of Reason specialises in small-batch summer collections created with artists and illustrators. This pair, featuring the work of Chris Auret, already has summer plans.

Babatunde Goundam bucket hat, R360 (sizes S-XL), babatunde.co.za Keep it cute, bright and graphic in an African-print bucket hat. Sun protection is always key, so why not stay stylish while you’re at it?