Swimwear is up there with jeans when it comes to important purchases – after all, you’ll likely wear your new togs every day once the sun starts really shining, so you want a pair that makes you feel both cute and comfy.
There are also a billion (is that even an exaggeration? We don’t think so) options out there, from minimalist one-pieces and skimpy bikinis to retro ’50s briefs and ’70s string bottoms. We’ve done some of the hard work for you and narrowed down some favourite labels and styles for 2020.
The Iconic
A bit of a one-stop-shop for many of us, The Iconic has a great selection of labels and the generous returns policy means you can buy a bunch of styles, then return those that don’t suit.
Our picks: This Bond-Eye one-piece reminds us of an Italian summer, while Artesands makes great plus-size swimwear like this sexy little black number.
Sir
Making its foray into the swim market this year, Sir’s first collection of togs is a mix of punchy florals, romantic prints and basics you’ll keep until they go threadbare.
Our picks: Anything with the heavenly Ambroise print, and the sweet Anais string bikini.
Surfstitch
Stocking a mix of high-end beachy labels such as Tigerlily and Fella Swim, as well as affordable labels such as Billabong and Swell, Surfstitch really goes hard with summer fashion.
Our picks: This All About Eve underwire top suits those who want more support, while this Tigerlily one-piece will delight anyone with a bohemian aesthetic.
The Fold
Created to cater to those with a D+ bust, The Fold does supportive swimwear damn well. These are cossies that will actually hold you in, even in the roughest of surf.
Our picks: The new Dolby print is practically art, and the Tri Top is a more supportive version of a string bikini.
Matteau
When it comes to minimalist swimwear, Matteau is one of the top labels in Australia. Every year it releases a collection that somehow feels both classic and modern, thanks to on-trend colourways teamed with flattering silhouettes.
Our picks: The scoop maillot looks like it would be universally flattering, while the long-sleeve sun tee is a chic version of a rashie.
Fella Swim
The best thing about Fella is that it releases an array of bikini styles that works across a range of busts and needs. Basically, if you love a hue or print, you’re likely to find it in your favourite style.
Our picks: The Pacino top is a more supportive version of a bandeau, and the Lucian top is all glamour.
Zulu & Zephyr
A north coast label born in Bondi, Zulu & Zephyr embodies long sunny days. Its collections are designed for beachwear and the latest is a mix of summery hues, such as lemony sorbet and mint green.
Our picks: The Marine one-piece has underwire cups, which add modern detail and support, while the Sundeck bikini makes us smile.
Zimmermann
The latest swimwear season from Australian fashion house Zimmermann features flattering one-shoulder floral swimsuits and cute bikinis with crochet detailing. There are some nifty printed board shorts for men, too.
Our pick: The Separates Sculptone one-piece made in form-fitting Italian lycra so it's designed to sculpt and shape the body.
Auguste
Another Byron Bay label, Auguste releases a capsule swim collection each year that mirrors its summer designs.
Our picks: The Samos one-piece has great coverage and the rust hue is flattering. The Bonita bikini’s ruffled straps are sweet and feminine.
Bec + Bridge
Known for its effortless beach-to-bar pieces, it makes perfect sense that the Bec + Bridge swim collection is equally wearable from the beach to the ice-cream shop with your cut-offs thrown on.
Our picks: The Polka Party bandeau’s metallic material feels fun if you’re in a pool party mood. And the Vice bikini is as skimpy as they get.
Camp Cove Swim
A favourite label among the retro-loving set, Camp Cove is all about realism – the label focuses on flattering cuts with fun vintage-esque prints and uses models of varying body types, so you can really see what its swim pieces would look like on you.
Our picks: The Roma one-piece has a lovely scooped back, and the heatwave daisy print is ’60s fun personified.
Snrklbr
Sure, the label has a slightly odd name, but the designs are right up your alley if you love a Beverly Hills: 90210 vibe. A stand-out design is the Babysitter bikini with its ultra-high-cut pant and ’90s California-style bralette top.
Our picks: The Celestial print is a bit of horoscope fun. Alternatively, the glitter print is something one of the Wakefield sisters would definitely have worn. Probably Jessica, to be honest.
We hope you love the products we recommend on Broadsheet – our editors select each one independently. Broadsheet may receive an affiliate commission when you follow some links.