If You're Bored of Your Swimwear, These Are the Indie Brands To Shop This Summer
From classic Brazilian cuts to tankinis and denim-effect shorts, the indie brands have got you covered.
Summer is in full swing, and that means finding the perfect bikini. Whether you’ve planned a Euro summer, a tropical beach vacation or you’ll simply be tanning at your local park, a cool-girl-approved bikini is probably on your list, and the small brands are killing it when it comes to unique designs.
Far beyond a classic string bikini, you can now find tankinis, swim skirts, shorts and one-pieces that are actually cool. From underwear labels expanding into the swim category such as Fruity Booty and This Belongs To, to longstanding faves such as Frankies Bikinis, we’ve compiled a list of the hottest and most fashion-forward swim sets. Read on for the full roundup.
Fruity Booty
Fruity Booty is the London-based label worn by everyone from Kendall Jenner to Dua Lipa. The brand is B-corp certified, mostly using deadstock and responsibly sourced fabrics to create limited runs of lingerie, clothing and swimwear. Its bright color combinations and playful graphics have given the brand a distinct style, channeling a playful femininity, perfect for your Mediterranean summer. Check out the Apricot bikini top for something extra sweet.
This Belongs To
This Belongs To began as an underwear brand aiming to redefine what ‘sexy’ meant for women. Focusing on comfort, play and nostalgia, the pieces feature little hand-sewn labels where you can write your name, just like when you were kids. Worn by it-girl Iris Law, the brand uses natural and recycled materials, all handmade in the UK.
Diani
Diani is a swimwear brand full of color and sparkle, perfect for you to channel your inner mermaid and paddle in turquoise waters. Founded by sisters Elene and Anna Diani, the designs are crafted in Barcelona and every bit as Mediterranean as you’d expect.
Susamusa
London-based It-girl brand worn by the likes of Olivia Dean and Bella Hadid just entered the swim space with its first-ever bikini. The design blends the founder’s Persian heritage with the brand’s signature feminine aesthetic for something simple with a twist. The bikini features hand-blown glass evil eye beads crafted by artisans in Istanbul, adding a meaningful detail to an effortless summer staple.
Du Ciel
Du Ciel is the independent label making clothes for that girl. Turning simple designs into works of art, the brand has two daringly sensual swimsuits. For its most recent drop, the Monaco swimsuit, the label skipped the usual beach setting, opting instead for a sultry Parisian backdrop that captures Du Ciel’s offbeat vibe. The garment itself features a dramatic plunge neckline, an open back design and a sculpting strap positioned right under the bust. This is perfect for beach days and city nights alike, paired with some slouchy denim.
Main Rose
Zara Larsson’s swimwear brand Main Rose is everything you would expect, with Y2K-inspired cuts, playful colors and plenty of glitz. Launched earlier this year, the label has already dropped multiple collections, including a collaboration with indie label Nii HAi.
Nii HAi
As mentioned above, Nii HAi is a brand to get on your radar. With its signature Y2K aesthetic and neon color palette, these bikinis instantly transport us back to the 2010s Tumblr era. What’s not to love?
Pittanga
Brazilians really do it best when it comes to swimwear, and Pittanga is proof. Founded by Juliana Nalú, the label is manufactured entirely in Rio de Janeiro, drawing creative inspiration from local nature, beach culture and the founder’s love for bossa nova rhythms.
hrh
London-based label hrh is inspired by all things gymnastics, ’80s beach culture and figure skating, designing pieces that can just as easily be worn on the beach as to the club. Pair the string separates with some denim or a mini skirt to transform the swimwear into everyday wear.
Debute
Debute is another London label recently entering the swimwear space. The collection blends delicate, youthful details with a sharp edge. Gingham prints, broderie anglaise fabrics, delicate ribbons and bows are contrasted by bold leopard prints running across multiple styles.
Strawberry Western
New York brand Strawberry Western is making swimwear fun with its playful prints and vibrant hues. Beyond the usual bikini silhouettes, you’ll find swim skirts and tankini tops to add something a little more fashion-forward to your rotation. Gingham, flowers and bows are mainstays, ready for the perfect beach setup.
Londi
Londi is the Ukrainian brand making eco-conscious swimwear for your inner mermaid. Its latest drop features mint separates with frills and mini shorts alongside tankini options and bralettes. Constructed from regenerated nylon, reclaimed fishing nets and marine waste, the durable yet soft finish almost mimics a second skin.
