Trend Guide: String Swimwear, High-Cut Bikinis and Tanning Swimsuits – Summer in the UK

Swimwear in the UK has always reflected a blend of practicality and personality, but this summer the styles on offer are leaning firmly into the expressive. Retailers across the country are stocking pieces that draw heavily from the 1970s and 1990s, with minimalist cuts, bold colours, and body-celebrating silhouettes dominating the market. Whether you are planning a holiday abroad or simply making the most of British summer days, understanding what is in style can help you shop smarter.

The Comeback of the String Swimsuit

The string swimsuit has re-emerged as one of the defining pieces of the season. Characterised by thin ties at the sides and back, this style offers a high degree of adjustability and a relaxed, carefree aesthetic. Originally popular in the late 1970s and again in the early 2000s, string bikinis and one-pieces are now appearing across a wide range of UK retailers, from high street stores to independent boutiques. The appeal is largely in their versatility — the ties can be adjusted for comfort or styling, and the minimal coverage makes them ideal for tanning. Fabrics have also improved significantly, with modern versions often featuring UV-protective materials and quick-dry blends that hold their shape throughout the day.

High-Cut Bikinis and Their Enduring Appeal

High-cut bikini bottoms have maintained a strong presence in swimwear collections for several seasons now, and their popularity shows no sign of fading. The higher leg line creates the illusion of elongated legs and is flattering across a wide variety of body shapes. This style pairs well with both bandeau and triangle tops, offering mix-and-match flexibility that many shoppers appreciate. In the UK market, high-cut styles are widely available in solid tones, floral prints, and retro-inspired colour blocks. They also translate well from beach to poolside, making them a practical investment for a summer wardrobe. Many current designs incorporate structured waistbands or ruching details that add both comfort and visual interest.

Tanning Swimsuits and Minimalist Coverage

For those whose priority is achieving an even tan, tanning-specific swimwear has become its own sub-category. These pieces are designed with minimal coverage and strategic cutouts to reduce tan lines while still offering enough support for everyday wear. Strapless designs, micro bikinis, and tie-side bottoms all fall into this category. In the UK, where sunshine can be unpredictable, this type of swimwear is particularly popular for holidays in Southern Europe or the Canary Islands. Brands are increasingly designing pieces specifically with sun exposure in mind, using fabrics that resist fading and maintain elasticity even after prolonged exposure to salt water and sunscreen.

Fit and Care for Your Swimwear

Getting the right fit is as important as choosing the right style. Swimwear sizing can vary considerably between brands, so checking size guides and reading reviews from UK shoppers is always advisable. A well-fitting piece should feel secure without digging into the skin, and straps or ties should hold their position without constant readjusting. Regarding care, swimwear should ideally be rinsed in cold water after each use to remove chlorine, salt, and sunscreen residue, all of which can break down elastic fibres over time. Hand washing with a gentle detergent is preferable to machine washing, and pieces should be laid flat to dry rather than hung, which can stretch the fabric. Rotating between two or more swimsuits during a holiday allows each piece time to recover its shape.

Swimwear trends this summer offer something for everyone, from the carefree minimalism of string styles to the body-confident lines of high-cut cuts and the practical appeal of tanning-focused designs. Investing in quality pieces that fit well and are cared for properly means they will remain wardrobe staples for seasons to come.