The Swimwear Trends of 2019 to Try This Summer, From Animal Prints to Metallics
Toss that little black bikini aside.

Animal PrintCutoutsMetallicsHigh-Waisted BottomsSweet Bows
We're aware that most people buy just one or two new swimsuits per season (unless you live right next to the beach or have a pool—lucky you). Thus, deciding which one you're going to invest in for this year requires careful research. Like everything else in fashion, every season you'll find designers releasing new bikinis and one pieces, likely around a certain theme. For spring/summer 2019, animal print reigns supreme, from your leopard spots to tiger stripes, though we've uncovered four other trends you're sure to see lining the lounge chairs this summer too. (You don't need another little basic black bikini!).
See which trend speaks to you, ahead, add said suit to your cart, then get ready to wear it in three to five business days. Don't forget SPF!
Animal Print
This season's animal print selections run the gamut, from your classic leopard to variations on zebra and tiger stripes—even python! You'll find these designs splashed onto one-pieces and bikinis in a variety of colors from neon pinks to a more subdue white-and-black combination. While animal prints are generally associated with that "look-at-me" vibe, anyone can rock them. The fierce print serves as a little reminder that we're all feeling more powerful and bold this year, so don't be afraid to own it.
Cutouts
Mikoh resort 2019 runway show.
Tan lines from sexy cutout swimsuits like the ones below are ones we don't really mind. (Just remember to apply sunscreen there too.) For 2019, almost every swimwear brand has released its own version of a "sexy cutout" suit, whether it's a bikini that resembles bandage wraps or a one-piece that has a whole side missing. My favorite, though, has to be the combination of strategically placed cutouts on more romantic and feminine swimsuits for that unexpected style twist.
Metallics
Kourtney Kardashian wore a purple metallic swimsuit back in August and now metallic swimsuits are everywhere. Coincidence? We think not. For summer, brands like Lisa Marie Fernandez have bumped up their metallic bikini and one-piece offerings, releasing colors like black (a more versatile option than purple) and classic gold and silver. This shiny material might get blindly bright when the sunlight hits it, so have your sunglasses ready. Might I recommend this pair?
High-Waisted Bottoms
Our infatuation with clothes from the '80s and '90s has been well documented on the runways for the past few seasons. This nostalgia, clearly, is no different when it comes to swimwear—retailers are hopping on that high-waisted bikini bandwagon. If you had trouble finding a style you liked last season don't you worry, for summer 2019 there are tons of new options. Incorporating florals to ruffles to cutouts (see above) to sustainable fabrics, the high-waisted cut is at the top of every retailer's must-design list. The high-waist might be a retro look, but these fresh prints and designs keep it feeling contemporary.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
Sweet Bows
Blink and you might miss this subtle but sweet detail. Tiny bows are popping up on swimsuits, whether on the shoulders or on the side of your bikini bottoms. Some designers like Mara Hoffman even made them the focal point on swimsuits, placing them front and center for the world to see. If you're looking for just a touch of something-something in your otherwise basic swimsuits, opt for one of the pretty bow pieces below.
For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.
RELATED STORIES
Marina Liao is the former fashion news editor at Marie Claire, where she covered celebrity style (from Meghan Markle to Katie Holmes), fashion trends, and shopping advice, plus conducted original interviews with industry insiders. She's now the Senior Commerce Editor at House Beautiful, where she owns coverage on deals and sales across home decor and accessories, in-depth product reviews on furniture and appliances, as well as news around new product launches since 2023. With help from leading designers and tastemakers, Marina spotlights quality products while tracking current design trends, a skill she’s mastered over six years in fashion media. Marina holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Stony Brook University, beginning her career in narrative-driven commerce coverage as an editorial assistant at PopSugar.
-
The Business of Beauty: How Science-Driven Innovation Drives Growth and Success
Panelists dished on everything AI, TikTok, Clinique's groundbreaking formulas, and what ingredients are *actually* benefiting the skin.
-
Bella Hadid Wears a Piece of Cannes History—Just Not in Cannes
She can take her vintage trove wherever she wants.
-
What to Know About 'The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives' Star Demi Engemann, From Her Family to Her Feuds
The #MomTok influencer is at the center of a lot of season 2's drama.
-
I’ve Tested Dozens of Summer Work Shoes—These Are the 16 Worth Buying
These are the pairs I actually reach for Monday through Friday.
-
I've Spent Years Perfecting My Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe—These Are 10 Summer Essentials
From office Bermuda shorts to easy-breezy linen pants.
-
I Went for a Walk in NYC and Saw 23 Pairs of Toe Ring Sandals
The quirky Y2K sandal is poised to have a very real NYC summer.
-
Every Fashion Editor I Know Is Shopping Zara's Supermodel-Backed 50th Anniversary Collection
It's a one-stop shop for elevated wardrobe basics.
-
Gigi Hadid’s Post-Met Gala Recovery Outfit Includes $485 Sweatpants and Comfy Ballet Flats
The model swapped her Miu Miu gown for comfort instead.
-
Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber Style the Same Summer Shoe Trend in Polar-Opposite Outfits
But both pairs were over $1,000, of course.
-
The Summer 2025 Shoe Trends Stylish Women Will All Wear in Two Months
Get a head start.
-
Take It From a Fashion Editor: These Summer 2025 Trends Are Certified Compliment-Magnets
Don't wait until June.