My Swimwear Wish List for Summer 2018

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I mentioned when I announced my move to Spain that you might see swimwear content from me a little more frequently, and it’s been so sunny this past week that I’ve definitely had the beach on my mind. I’ve been researching swimsuits and bikinis with the intention of buying a couple for the summer ahead, and thought I’d share my favourites with you here. Most of these are things I’m actually considering buying; a handful are out-of-my-budget lust list items, because it’s good to dream, right?

Up until now that long ago, swimwear shopping for me involved an annual trip to H&M where I’d throw £15 at something on the sale rail and be done with it. I only saw the sea a few times a year, so spending more didn’t seem worth it. And as a result, I never really got ‘into’ swimwear despite its similarities to lingerie. Now though, I think I’m developing a new addiction!

Since this is my personal wish list, here’s what I look for in a swimsuit or bikini:

• Straps. I get far too paranoid about accidentally flashing everyone on the beach to risk a bandeau bikini or strapless one-piece slipping down in the waves.
• Prints. I’ll make an exception for particularly vibrant colours (especially red or yellow!), but generally, I find solid colours too plain and boring. I’m particularly drawn to intricately-detailed florals, art-deco inspiration, and anything with a touch of gold.
• Metal(lic) details. Yep, I just said it, but I love a flash of gold that will sparkle and shine in the sunlight. And, just like with lingerie, quite possibly my favourite detail of all would be fancy metal hardware of some kind. I’m definitely all about a luxury vibe.
• Moderate coverage. I’m not afraid of a low neckline, but I wouldn’t feel comfortable in a thong bikini or one with a really itsy-bitsy top. I’m not sure the current ultra-high legline trend is for me either. Basically, I’m looking for something with enough fabric to properly show off that fancy print I chose it for!

Ted Baker Balmoral Marble swimsuit, £100 (~$141 / ~114€)*

ASOS Western Gold crop bikini top & high-leg bottoms, £38 (~$53 / ~43€)*

V by Very Shirred Frill swimsuit, £32 (~$45 / ~37€)*

Agent Provocateur Davine bikini, £490 (~$687 / ~560€)*

Gottex Couture Golden Sand swimsuit, £182.95 (~$257 / ~209€)

Bikiniboo gold & black print swimsuit, £40.75 (~$57 / ~47€)*

Hunkemöller Caro_e_ Entangled bikini in deep red, £53 (~$74 / ~61€)*

MW by Matthew Williamson leopard print swimsuit, £42 (~$59 / ~48€)*

Love Lucy Bea Lemon bikini set, $80 (~£57 / ~65€)*

Ted Baker Imperial Stripe bikini, £80 (~$112 / ~91€)*

Boux Avenue Philippines Boost bikini, £53 (~$74 / ~61€)*

Floozie by Frost French Fairytale bikini, £46 (~$65 / ~53€)*

Sauvage Parisienne Gold Loop swimsuit, $209 (~£149 / ~170€)

Freya Mamba bandeau bikini set, £59 (~$83 / ~67€)*

ASOS Frill Plunge bikini, reduced to £17.50 (~$25 / ~20€)

Sauvage Corset Cut-Out swimsuit, $240 (~£171 / ~195€)

Biba Peacock Paisley Kayla bikini, £48 (~$67 / ~55€)*

So that’s my wishlist – what do you look for in a swimwear design? Also, help, I can’t decide which of these to buy! Which look is your favourite? Is there a brand here you’d be keen to see me review?