Dive into a collection of togs to suit all styles.
Swimsuits endure a thrashing in the summertime. So how do you know your chosen togs will stand up to the elements?
Swimwear designer Gemma Lee, who debuted at New Zealand Fashion Week: Kahuria earlier this year, says a great suit should fit like a second skin.
“You want it to feel snug without being restrictive or pinching anywhere. Signs a swimsuit is too big include gaping around the armholes, leg lines or neckline, or excess fabric that bunches or wrinkles. When trying any swimsuit on, I always recommend reaching your arms above your head — it’s the quickest way to know if it feels too tight or restrictive."
For wetsuits, there’s the added focus on the range of motion and sections that should seal (at the wrists, ankles and neck).
“You don’t want cold water flushing in and out, so these areas need to sit flush against your skin. If they already feel loose, or if you can easily fit more than two fingers in, the wetsuit is probably too big.
“Remember, [when you’re] on land, wetsuits can feel tight if you’re not used to wearing one, but once you’re in the water, they loosen up and move with you.”
Beyond fit, there’s so much more to consider. In this guide, we’re covering nine categories: bikini sets, one-pieces, briefs, boardies, modest, adaptive, affirming, surfy, and fashion first.
Don’t forget your sunscreen!
Bikini Sets
For when you want something teeny.
Not all bikinis are made equal. They can be cheeky and flimsy or structured and supportive. No single option is wrong, but you’ll need to know your preferences to find one right for you.
When narrowing down your selection, start with the level of support you desire.
If you want a sturdy set to support a bigger bust, try Form & Fold, Raq Apparel, Galamaar and Ochre Lane (you can filter for underwire for the latter, should that be your requirement).
If you’re a fan of breezier, barely-there togs, triangle bikini tops might be more to your liking: Fondu Swim, Eres and Soso Swim offer plenty of colourways for changeable shapes (tie them upside down when you want something different). Remmie by Riley Hemson also has a range of skimpier togs to try.
For something sportier, consider simple cuts with sturdy clasps. Start with Lorna Jane’s gym-to-swim collection and opt for pieces that resemble those you might spot in the gym.
If you’re keen to shop local, check out the offerings at Astro Princess, which features cheeky tops in the shapes of stars and plenty of animal print. More understated, black bikinis are available at Seer & Wilde. Rachel Mills strikes a balance between the two – her made-to-order togs available in black and rusty orange are secure but also feature surprising cut-outs.
Left to right: Fella Swim bikini top, $205, and bottoms, $110, from Mei Lan, Ochre Lane bikini top $90, and bottoms, Cleonie bikini top, $135, and bottoms, $135, Galamaar bikini top, $275, and bottom, $218.
One Piece
Higher coverage suits for super swells.
When waves are crashing on our coasts, a one-piece is the practical pick: less fuss and more fun.
Form & Fold and Ochre Lane expand their supportive options into one-piece suits too – think underwire, thick materials and adjustable straps. Saint Somebody is also a sturdy option, with wireless suits in reliable cuts.
Happy with something stretchy? The scrunchy fabrications at You Swim and Hunza G promise to bend to your body.
For suits with more embellishment, consider the addition of hardware, stones and shells (Maggie Marilyn’s latest collaboration with Fella Swim has some earthy examples). Lido, freshly stocked at Penny Sage and Mei Lan, makes unique plays with colour.
Rachel Mills delivers the largest range of options for NZ-made one-pieces, including strapless, backless and boat-neck cuts.
If swimming is a part of your exercise routine, try something simpler – both Andie and Speedo offer togs that will stand up to chlorinated waters.
Left to right: Fella x Maggie Marilyn one-piece $270, Ochre Lane one-piece $200, City Chic one-piece $98 (on sale), Bondi Born one-piece approx $344.
Briefs
For those who prefer abbreviation.
Luxury labels are leaning all the way in on swim briefs, creating ornate patterns and branding the garment proudly with their namesake. Of course, the style has long been favoured by competitive swimmers, so their credentials are well-tested.
The brief is both celebrated and scorned for its skimpy nature, which can make trialling the style a little intimidating. Begin with a simple black colourway. Depending on your comfort level, you could always add a few inches with an aquashort or go big for a bolder shade or pattern.
Left to right: Jean Paul Gaultier brief $252,Gali brief $99, Vacay Swimwear brief $65.
Boardies
An extended inseam offers more room to play.
A pair of boardshorts will provide more coverage and can provide a good opportunity to translate your street style onto the sand.
Think carefully about your inseam – do you prefer teensy shorts that grace the mid thigh, or longer boardies reminiscent of Y2K stylings? Each draws on specific cultures and connotations, so consider your intended influences before you buy.
While beachy florals are a common pattern, you could venture into alternatives (Pete Pareo has some contemporary updates). If you’re more of a minimalist, look for the monochromatic and superbly sensible offerings from Patagonia.
Left to right: Charlee Swim boardshorts $128, Billabong boardshorts, $90, from Amazon, Patagonia 5″ boardshorts $75, Okanui boardshorts $106.
Modest
High-quality and high-coverage suits to consider.
Sturdy snaps and closures are essential to making high-coverage swimwear work in the waves. If you have specific preferences for your fixtures, consider the functions highlighted in the garment’s description (this is worth considering for anyone shopping for a new pair of togs).
For a full set, Myawrah, Bnah, Siya and Lanuuk could be your first stop for full-coverage suits (the latter two offer sweet pastel colourways for their sweeping garments). If you prefer to style separates, Modest Mermaid have pieces easy to add into a rotation.
Left to right: Siya cover-up $124,Hākinakina rash top $190 and Capriosca swim leggings $129, Lyra swimsuit $282, Lanuuk swim dress $212.
Adaptive
Swimwear with inclusive design.
Magnetic closures, tagless garments, thoughtfully placed zips and well-cut suits are important design details to consider for adaptive apparel. There are various labels working to specific briefs. One Viva has previously spotlighted is Miga, which has a range to suit diverse states of being (from high-waisted bottoms to support a stoma or feeding tube to materials mindful of skin sensitivity and garments that don’t require any adjustments).
ModiBodi offers swimwear for both periods and incontinence. You might also consider the offerings from Tommy Hilfiger, should you need low-stress trunks for children.
Beyond swimwear designed and marketed as adaptive, you can find suitable items through specific search terms – focus on required design features like cuts and closures.
Left to right: RVCA bikini top, approx $110 (front zip closure),Capricosa bottoms $71 (high-waisted),Miga one-piece $37 (on sale) (side cut-out and long zipper pulley), Gramicci shorts, $176, from Up There (integrated waistband).
Affirming
Expressions for every body.
Gender expression can be affirmed through whichever togs one chooses, but these designs cater directly to specific preferences.
Chromat is retailing its final collection, along with the rest of its archive (the cobalt blue is an energising shade for the season). You could nab one of the last Beefcake suits too, which are down to limited sizes.
Wivov’s matching compression set is simple and takes note of vintage swimwear design.
Locally, Pāpāmoa-based swimwear brand Emroce has a range of styles made with zero-waste patterns. The latest, released earlier this year, is the ZeroZeroZero swimsuit. The one piece features a lace-up back, which can be fashioned into a halter or square necklines (the suit is made-to-order, so you can also specify dimensions if you prefer). It also comes in a range of colours, including black, navy, red and bright blue.
Left to right: Rubies top, $73, and bottom, $78, Chromat rashguard $79, Wivov chest binder top $68.
Surfy
For chilly morning swims and long days on the waves.
If you’re spending your time tumbling in wild waves, you need a suit that will stand up to the conditions.
To level up from a one-piece, how about a surf suit that extends further down the legs (Charlee Swim should be your first port of call). A rash guard or long-sleeve suit will assist in preventing both chafe and sunburn (start with Hākinakina). If you want something skimpier, NZ label Tamara has bikinis designed with surfing in mind.
Locally, we have great wetsuit makers too, for mornings where the climate is cold. In Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington, Cold Wave is creating suits with a touch of something sensual and gothic. Gemma Lee, also based in the capital, takes inspiration from vintage swimwear for cheerier activewear.
The designer provides some insight into the care that can make an expensive wetsuit go the distance.
“Taking care of your wetsuit can really extend its lifespan – saltwater can be harsh on neoprene. I always recommend rinsing your wetsuit with fresh water after every session, and using a wetsuit cleaner from time to time. Hang it out of direct sunlight on a wide plastic hanger for storage."
Left to right: Cold Wave long-sleeve $300,Charlee Swim surf suit $268, Patagonia rash guard $119, Hākinakina long-sleeve swimsuit $280.
Fashion First
Form over function.
Emily Watson is among the labels subverting the expectations of swimwear – the Australian designer makes use of water-resistant materials to construct bouncy ready-to-wear ensembles (think miniskirts, boleros and crop tops).
This sense of play is exciting, and other labels are certainly picking up on the attitude for garments that can make their way into the surf.
Christopher Esber updates the form with unique cuts and bold embellishments. Cultira has a collection of thigh-baring mini skirts, golden hues and plunging necklines. Remmie reconsiders fabrications with a denim set.
Screenprinted swimwear can offer an alternative to more common patterns. These suits from Hakea feature a photo taken by the designer during travels through Japan. Raq Apparel’s vibrant Hibiscus print updates a familiar floral.
Em On Holiday also frequently plays with the form, inserting cut-outs and printing all things buzzy and bizarre. Locally, Rachel Mills offers sublime subversion, too.
Left to right: Kathrina Lou reversible tankini top, $205, and bottoms $116, Baiia wrap top, approx $330, and bottoms, $240, Em On Holiday one-piece approx $215, Emily Watson tankini, approx $380.
More seasonal picks
From cosy layers to lighter jackets.
What To Wear This Party Season: Sparkling Separates For Special Occasions. Think a vest with silver tinsel and metallic fabrics that will catch the light.
The Best Spring Dresses To Wear Through Rain & Shine. Blossoming florals, neat stripes and breezy materials – make springtime ensembles easy with these long dresses.
12 Versatile & Multifunctional Clothing Pieces You Can Style In Different Ways. Buy less, wear more. These purposeful pieces are as hard-working as you are.
Spring Fashion: NZ Labels On What Colours To Wear This Season. Brighter days are ahead, and New Zealand fashion is celebrating with matching hues.
Zip-Ups & Hoodies For Hiding Away From The Elements. Encase your upper half in something plush and comforting with this collection of zip-ups and hoodies.
10 Big Handbags To Tote Around On Busy Days. If you’re looking for a handbag that can do it all, consider this collection of big bags.