Photo: Polina Sergeeva / Flickr

Swimwear fashion, for both men and women, has overtaken the world with swimming costumes becoming more and more fashion forward. 2010 saw some interesting and striking swimwear designs and fun colour trends and 2011 will no doubt bring us even more exciting swimwear options. Let us take a look back on 2010 and what swimwear trends we absolutely loved this year and which ones we hope to never have to see again.

Cut away designs

The cut away swimwear designs of 2010 could be worn by women of all ages. Interesting monokinis and sexy one-pieces were all the rage in summer and it looks like that trend is here to stay. This is a good thing, as the trend is sophisticated and striking while at the same time helping to hide a less-than-perfect stomach. This style is perfect for a day sipping cocktails on a recliner at a roof-top pool – but watch out for strangely shaped tan lines.

Dressing up swimwear

Dressing up swimwear was a 2010 must do and micro-bikinis were often seen paired with chunky jewellery, caftans and gladiator sandals. Sheer fabrics where a massive trend when it came to sarongs and cover ups, as were belts and long necklaces.

Men’s swimwear trends

Small and tight boxers where all the rage for men’s swimwear fashion in 2010 but unless the man wearing them is a well built celebrity this is a trend we hope not to see in 2011. Short board shorts also came into fashion in 2010 and no longer are the baggy, bum-showing board shorts all the rage – these new board shorts fit well and show off the figure nicely. Running style shorts are also popular for men and these look great on athletic builds.

The overall trend with swimwear in 2010 was that people were daring to be different. Costumes in unique designs and interesting shapes were available from most retailers and colours were bold and bright. It proved to be a fun fashion season for swimwear and we look forward to seeing what is available next year.

Tags: Fashion trends