When the sun is shining it feels like summer is so close, we are desperate to start buying a new wardrobe that doesn’t involve long sleeves and roll necks. The most exciting shopping list is always for holidays, new sunglasses, pretty dresses that we can never wear to work, and new bikinis! You can never have too many sunglasses, kaftans and swimsuits. What do you go for, bright neon to show off a tan or fun animal prints, string bikinis or a sophisticated one piece that you can parade around the pool in with large glasses playing incognito?

Bold & Bright

So much gorgeous swimwear is bold and bright, if you wear all black all year round then the beach is your one place you can show off some colour and go for prints.  Whether it’s a bikini or one piece, if you’re brave enough, then opt for the brightest material you can possibly find, abandon the pastels and neutral shades; it’s all about embracing your inner Sofia Vergara. If you’ve worked on getting that summer body all winter in the gym then show it off in exotic neon colours, vibrant oranges to hot pinks, they’re a guaranteed head-turner.

This bikini is from Rodial,  a gorgeous print, with a flattering halter neck  £158.95.

Prints

We love a touch of animal print, we’re over the flamingo, we love the peacock and butterfly prints that are really popular this year. Traditional animal prints do tend to compliment most skin tones, especially olive and darker skin. You can’t go wrong with leopard and tiger but we do love this pink and blue butterfly print, so pretty!

Gottex swimsuit for a glamorous beach look for just £149.95

High waisted

Don’t feel confident enough to wear a bikini on the beach? There are plenty of gorgeous, retro high wasted styles to pick from. They really accentuate your curves and hold in any tummies that didn’t quite manage Davina’s DVD everyday before getting on the plane! I mean who has time for abs….

High wasted bikinis are also a perfect 1950’s look for lovers of vintage fashion.  You can also team your bottoms with a tankini top to stay covered up until you are ready to roll up for a bit of sun when you are on your sun lounger in private.

High waisted bikini briefs from the Pour Moi Collection.