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8 Swimsuit Trends Set to Make a Comeback in Summer 2026

By Swedan Margen

8 Swimsuit Trends Set to Make a Comeback in Summer 2026

Fashion's cyclical nature has hit the swimwear world hard this year. This has been a summer filled with flashes from the past due to the fact that some of the most nostalgic styles we’ve loved in decades past are finding their way back into our vacation wardrobes, but with a modern twist. Tankinis have shed their early 2000s reputation thanks to designer brands backing it while sporty swim shorts are becoming a favorite among fashion insiders who are known for cool factor.

And it doesn’t stop there, minimalist bikinis, retro-inspired prints, and high-cut one-pieces continue to prove that sometimes the best trends are the ones worth coming back to. Whether you're planning a tropical getaway or simply updating your swim drawer for the season ahead, these are the eight swimsuit trends making a stylish comeback for Summer 2026.

Swim Boy Shorts

swimwear trends 2026

Sporty swimwear is having a major moment and if you want in, boy shorts should be the first thing on your list. Cool girls are already calling it a summer wardrobe staple.

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Santorini Short in Banana Spine

tropic of c

Santorini Short in Banana Spine

Toast Signature Boy Shorts

Free People

Toast Signature Boy Shorts

Elli - Horizon Blue Stripe Short | Triangl

Triangl

Horizon Blue Stripe Short

Hi Line Shortie - Sweet Chili Heat

Left on Friday

Hi Line Shortie

Minimal Straps

swimwear trends 2026

After seasons dominated by bold hardware and statement details, swimwear is taking a more understated approach and the details are worth noting. If you like tanning, you’re going to like this one.

The Sculpting C in Black Compression

tropic of c

The Sculpting C

gooseberry intimates, So Chic Triangle Top

gooseberry intimates

So Chic Triangle Top

Triangular Bikini Top - Women | Mango Usa

MANGO

Triangular Bikini Top

Tankini

swimwear trends 2026

Perhaps the most surprising comeback of the season, tankinis have officially re-entered the fashion conversation. Love it or hate it, they’re here and the fashion crowd is in line to give one of the top styles a try.

Nex Jewel Studded Tankini Top

Jaded Swim

Nex Jewel Studded Tankini Top

Laird Tankini Top & Sisley Tie Side Bottom

STAUD

Laird Tankini Top & Sisley Tie Side Bottom

Free-Est Sasha Solid Tankini

Free People

Free-Est Sasha Solid Tankini

Damson Madder Trudi Tankini Top

Damson Madder

Trudi Tankini Top

Nostalgic Prints

swimwear trends 2026

Retro-inspired prints are bringing a playful energy to swimwear this summer. If it looks memorable or reminds you of one of your favorite designer brands, you’re in the right place.

Burberry, Satine Contrast Trim One-Piece Swimsuit

Burberry

Satine Contrast Trim One-Piece Swimsuit

Aster Bikini
Lycra Triangle Bikini Bra Top

Emilio Pucci

Lycra Triangle Bikini Bra Top

Printed Strapless Swimsuit

PUCCI

Printed Strapless Swimsuit

Leopard Swim

swimwear trends 2026

Leopard print has become a year-round neutral and swimwear is no exception. It’s instant proof that you’re a fashion girl.

SAME LOS ANGELES, Strapless One Piece

SAME LOS ANGELES

Strapless One Piece

Embellished Leopard-Print Swimsuit

NILI LOTAN

Embellished Leopard-Print Swimsuit

Leopard Triangle Bikini Top - Women | Mango Usa

MANGO

Leopard Triangle Bikini

Calzedonia, Wild Animalier Triangle Swimsuit Top

Calzedonia

Wild Animalier Triangle Swimsuit Top

High Cut

swimwear trends 2026

The leg-lengthening effect of high-cut swimsuits continues to make them a favorite among celebrities and fashion insiders alike. Borrowing inspiration from iconic '80s and '90s swimwear, it easily reads retro.

LA PORTE, Kate Bottom - Fudge Jacquard
Toast Solid High Cut One-Piece Swimsuit

Free People

Toast Solid High Cut One-Piece Swimsuit

gooseberry intimates, One Piece Red

gooseberry intimates

One Piece Red

Poncho Coverup

swimwear trends 2026

Cover-ups are becoming just as important as the swimsuits themselves and poncho silhouettes are emerging as the new kid on the block. Try it to feel 2026-coded.

Sophie Crochet Poncho

Frankies Bikinis

Sophie Crochet Poncho

Asymmetrical Knitted Cape - Women | Mango Usa

MANGO

Asymmetrical Knitted Cape

Alden Cashmere Poncho

Reformation

Alden Cashmere Poncho

Tie Dye

swimwear trends 2026

Tie-dye is making a subtle return through sophisticated color palettes and elevated fabrications. Rather than feeling overly bohemian or child-like, today's interpretations bring an elevated touch.

Pareito Bandeau
Malaki Maxi Pareo
alemais, Martine printed bikini top

alemais

Martine printed bikini top

Originally published by whowhatwear.com. Syndicated material does not necessarily reflect the views of Vanity Fair Fashion.

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8 Swimsuit Trends Set to Make a Comeback in Summer 2026 - Vanity Fair Fashion