The 7 Biggest Swim Trends to Know About for 2020

If you’re anything like me, you’re probably already thinking ahead to summer outfits that involve some new additions to your wardrobe. Naturally, swimsuits are the first item I have my eye on when thinking of warm weather, but what, exactly, are the swimwear trends to know about for 2020? There is a wide range of new silhouettes, colors, and approaches to getting dressed in swimsuits coming down the pipeline for the upcoming season, but I’ve narrowed in on the seven major swimwear trends that will define 2020.

From the print that dominated the S/S 20 runway shows and the cool way fashion people are wearing bikini tops away from the beach to on-the-rise brands to know about and modest swimsuits with a twist and more, discover the biggest swim trends that fashion insiders will wear in the year ahead, and shop my edit.

Perhaps the prettiest swimwear trend of 2020? Mermaid bikinis and one-pieces that incorporate romantic ruching with shiny, satin-like finishes. On-the-rise designer Isa Boulder has an especially exciting collection that's putting this trend on the map. I'm predicting these swimsuits will be everywhere this summer.

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Another trend borrowed straight from the runways? Tropical prints. At the S/S 20 shows, designers including Fendi, Peter Pilotto, and Marni all ushered in strong jungle prints with blooms and vivid colors. And who can forget J.Lo's appearance at Versace that went viral on Instagram? Expect this to be huge in the world of swimwear as well, with brands like Matteau and Reina Olga already showcasing covetable pieces in their collections.

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Swimwear in 2020 is designed to take you beyond the beach. With ornate embellishments, cool cutouts, and luxe waist-defining belts built right in, swimsuits are intended for all-day wear. So how do you style this aprés-beach attire? Lean into maximalist style by adding oversize sunglasses and plenty of layered jewelry.

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Each season, swimsuits seem to be cut higher and higher with throwback '80s-inspired silhouettes. For 2020, one-pieces are cut shockingly high up past the navel for an extreme leg-lengthening effect. If you're looking for a one-piece that's anything but boring, you'll want to pack one of these for your next vacation. 

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One of the biggest trends we'll see in swimwear for 2020: covered-up pieces. Swimsuits are taking on new shapes with long-sleeve tops, short-sleeve one-pieces, booty shorts, and ultra-high-rise bottoms. The more modest silhouettes still show some skin, though, whether it's with a super-cropped top or a plunging neckline.

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Each season, we're introduced to standout colors that the fashion set flock to. Looking forward in the year, one of the biggest color trends will be tangerine, as seen at S/S 20 runway shows including Bottega Veneta, Valentino, and Emilia Wickstead. While the bold shade was a huge trend for spring, it will also translate to swimwear. Expect vibrant orange to be the dominant hue to appear in every insider's summer wardrobe.

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We're seeing wraparound tops in cool swimwear collections across the board. With long straps that wrap around the torso, they feel like a particularly fresh take on the bikini. My favorite element of this trend is the versatility of the tops. Not only are they great for the beach, but if you add a skirt or a pair of pants, they can easily transition to a full look.

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This post was published at an earlier date and has been updated. Next, discover 49 epic summer finds that look way pricier than $100.