Swimwear fashion in 2022 was a vibrant reflection of individuality, inclusivity, and innovation. From bold prints to sustainable fabrics, the year marked a significant shift in how swimsuits were designed and worn. Influenced by cultural movements, social media, and a growing emphasis on body positivity, swimwear trends embraced diversity in style, fit, and function. This article dives into the standout swimsuit trends of 2022, exploring their inspirations, key designers, and how they resonated with global audiences.
The Rise of Inclusivity in Swimwear
One of the defining characteristics of 2022 swimwear was its inclusivity. The fashion industry, spurred by voices on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, prioritized designs that catered to a wide range of body types, skin tones, and personal styles. This shift was evident in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, which made headlines by featuring Yumi Nu, the first plus-size model of Asian descent, and Maye Musk, the oldest cover model at 74, on its May 2022 cover. These milestones underscored a broader movement toward representing diverse identities in swimwear campaigns.
Brands like Chromat and Savage X Fenty led the charge by offering extended size ranges and promoting body-positive messaging. Chromat’s 2022 collection featured bold, architectural designs with adjustable straps and high-cut legs, ensuring comfort and confidence for all wearers. Meanwhile, Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty introduced swimwear that blended lingerie-inspired details with practical silhouettes, appealing to those seeking both style and versatility.
Key Swimwear Trends of 2022
1. Retro Revival: Nostalgic Silhouettes
Retro-inspired swimsuits were a major trend in 2022, drawing from the 1980s and 1990s. High-cut one-pieces, reminiscent of Baywatch, made a strong comeback, with brands like Solid & Striped and Hunza G offering sleek, leg-elongating designs. These suits often featured bold colors like cherry red and electric blue, evoking a sense of nostalgia while remaining modern.
Bikinis with high-waisted bottoms also gained traction, offering a nod to the 1950s pin-up aesthetic. Designers like Adriana Degreas paired these bottoms with halter tops, creating a timeless look that flattered various body shapes. The retro trend was further amplified by accessories like oversized sunglasses and floppy beach hats, completing the vintage vibe.
2. Cut-Outs and Asymmetry
Cut-out swimsuits were everywhere in 2022, offering a playful yet sophisticated take on traditional designs. These suits featured strategic openings at the waist, sides, or back, adding an element of surprise while maintaining coverage. Brands like Oséree and Frankies Bikinis excelled in this trend, crafting one-pieces with asymmetrical cut-outs that doubled as eveningwear when paired with skirts or trousers.
Asymmetrical designs also extended to bikini tops, with one-shoulder styles gaining popularity. These pieces, often seen in vibrant prints or metallics, allowed wearers to stand out without sacrificing comfort. The trend’s versatility made it a favorite among influencers and celebrities, who showcased these looks on beaches from Miami to Mykonos.
3. Sustainable Swimwear
Sustainability was a driving force in 2022’s swimwear market, as consumers demanded eco-friendly options. Brands like ABYSSE and Mara Hoffman prioritized recycled materials, such as Econyl (regenerated nylon from ocean plastics), to create stylish yet environmentally conscious swimsuits. ABYSSE’s sporty racerback designs were lauded for their functionality and minimal carbon footprint, making them ideal for active beachgoers.
Mara Hoffman’s 2022 collection featured gingham prints and earthy tones, blending sustainable fabrics with timeless patterns. The brand’s commitment to ethical production resonated with consumers, proving that eco-conscious fashion could be both chic and accessible. This trend aligned with a broader cultural shift toward mindful consumption, encouraging buyers to invest in pieces that lasted beyond a single season.
4. Bold Prints and Colors
2022 was not a year for subtle swimwear. Animal prints, tie-dye, and tropical florals dominated the scene, reflecting a desire for self-expression. Heavy Manners, a brand featured in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, became synonymous with vibrant, playful prints that appealed to the “ultimate cool girl.” Their suits, often photographed in Puerto Rico, combined zebra stripes and neon hues for a maximalist aesthetic.
Metallic and iridescent fabrics also emerged as a bold choice, with brands like Monica Hansen Beachwear offering luxurious, shiny suits that caught the light. These designs, paired with statement jewelry, transitioned seamlessly from beach to bar, embodying the year’s ethos of versatility and glamour.
5. Long-Sleeve Swimsuits and Rash Guards
For those seeking sun protection or modesty, long-sleeve swimsuits and rash guards were a stylish solution in 2022. These designs, initially popularized for water sports, evolved into fashionable staples. Athleta’s long-sleeve one-pieces, designed for activities like surfing and paddleboarding, featured high-neck silhouettes and quick-drying fabrics. Their full-coverage briefs ensured comfort during intense movement, making them a go-to for active women.
Summersalt’s long-sleeve wrap suits gained attention for their flattering fit, particularly for those with larger busts. The mock-wrap design provided support without sacrificing style, proving that functional swimwear could be elegant. These suits often doubled as cover-ups, blurring the line between swimwear and ready-to-wear fashion.
6. Textured Fabrics
Textured swimsuits, such as those with ribbed, crocheted, or ruched details, added dimension to 2022’s offerings. Belle the Label’s ruched bikinis, featured in Sports Illustrated, became a staple for their elevated yet approachable design. The tactile quality of these fabrics created visual interest, making even simple silhouettes feel luxurious.
Crocheted swimsuits, often handmade, appealed to those seeking artisanal pieces. Brands like PatBO combined crochet with bold patterns, creating suits that felt both bohemian and modern. These textured designs were particularly popular in earthy tones like terracotta and olive, reflecting a connection to natural aesthetics.
Cultural and Social Influences
The swimwear trends of 2022 were deeply tied to cultural and social shifts. The body-positive movement, amplified by models like Ashley Graham and Yumi Nu, challenged traditional beauty standards. Graham, who appeared in Sports Illustrated’s 2016–2018 issues, continued to advocate for inclusivity, inspiring brands to design for all body types. Her influence was evident in the rise of tummy-control swimsuits and high-waisted bikinis, which prioritized comfort and confidence.
Social media platforms played a pivotal role in shaping trends. Instagram influencers like Olivia Dunne and Ellie Thumann showcased swimwear from brands like ABYSSE and ELSE Lingerie, driving demand for sporty and chic designs. TikTok, meanwhile, popularized DIY swimwear hacks, encouraging users to customize their suits with ties, cut-outs, or layered looks. These platforms democratized fashion, allowing everyday consumers to influence trends alongside designers.
The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue remained a cultural touchstone, celebrating its 58th year in 2022. By featuring athletes like Sue Bird and transgender models like Valentina Sampaio, the magazine highlighted swimwear’s role in empowerment and self-expression. Its diverse casting and exotic shoot locations, such as Belize and Puerto Rico, inspired consumers to seek out bold, statement-making suits.
Designers and Brands to Watch
Several designers and brands stood out in 2022 for their innovative approaches to swimwear:
- Frankies Bikinis: Known for cut-out one-pieces and tie-dye prints, Frankies Bikinis captured the youthful, carefree spirit of 2022. Their collaborations with influencers like Gigi Hadid amplified their reach.
- Trina Turk: Featured in Sports Illustrated, Trina Turk’s vibrant prints and retro silhouettes appealed to those seeking timeless yet trendy designs.
- Zimmermann: This Australian brand’s swimwear combined romantic florals with structured shapes, offering a high-end option for beachgoers.
- Montce: Montce’s flirty bikinis, with details like flower hardware and side-tie bottoms, were a favorite for their playful aesthetic.
- BĀBEN: BĀBEN’s Anita Knit bikini, designed for comfort, became a go-to for lounging in the sun, blending practicality with style.
These brands exemplified 2022’s emphasis on versatility, allowing wearers to transition from beach to street with ease. Their designs often incorporated mix-and-match elements, giving consumers creative control over their looks.
How to Style 2022’s Swimsuits
Styling swimwear in 2022 was about embracing versatility and personal flair. Here are some tips to elevate your swimwear look:
- Layer with Cover-Ups: Pair a cut-out one-piece with a sheer sarong or linen pants for a beach-to-bar transition. Long-sleeve rash guards can be styled with high-waisted shorts for a sporty yet chic ensemble.
- Accessorize Boldly: Statement earrings, layered necklaces, and wide-brimmed hats complemented bold prints and metallics. For a retro look, opt for cat-eye sunglasses.
- Mix and Match: Combine high-waisted bikini bottoms with a contrasting top, or layer a rash guard over a bikini for added coverage. Brands like Target offered affordable mix-and-match sets starting at $12.
- Footwear Matters: Slide sandals or espadrilles paired well with one-pieces, while waterproof sneakers suited sporty rash guards for water activities.
The Future of Swimwear
The trends of 2022 set the stage for swimwear’s evolution in subsequent years. The focus on inclusivity, sustainability, and versatility continues to shape the industry, with brands experimenting with biodegradable fabrics and adaptive designs for people with disabilities. The influence of social media ensures that consumer voices remain central, pushing designers to innovate while staying true to diverse needs.
As seen in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue’s 2025 Bermuda shoot, the industry is leaning further into storytelling through swimwear, using exotic locations and diverse models to inspire. The legacy of 2022’s trends—bold, inclusive, and sustainable—remains a foundation for this ongoing transformation.
Conclusion
In 2022, swimwear transcended its functional roots to become a canvas for self-expression, empowerment, and sustainability. From retro high-cut one-pieces to eco-friendly rash guards, the year’s trends celebrated diversity in design and wearers. Influenced by cultural icons, social media, and a commitment to inclusivity, these swimsuits reflected a world eager to embrace individuality. Whether lounging poolside or riding waves, 2022’s swimwear invited everyone to make a splash in their own way.
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