What makes a swim trend controversial? It can be anything from how much coverage it provides (or, of course, doesn’t provide) to the potential for bizarre tan lines to how much it resembles lingerie. That said, just because a swim trend is divisive doesn’t mean it’s not cool or that it’s off-limits. In fact, while I tend to err on the safer side when it comes to beachwear, I can’t help but feel like I just might want to try a handful of the aforementioned suits myself—and I have a feeling you will, too.
From bra-style bikini tops every It brand is selling to the thong swimsuit movement that’s all the rage across the globe to the loincloth bottoms both celebrities and influencers are backing, today I’ve rounded up the five most controversial swim trends that, at least for the time being, are very much a thing. Now, you can choose for yourself whether or not they’re for you, and if they just so happen to be, feel free to shop them along the way. Just keep scrolling to get started.
1. Bra-Style Tops
This lingerie-inspired trend just might be my favorite of the season. In fact, I’ve already picked up the swimsuit above.
2. Thong Swimsuits
As both our U.S. editor in chief and UK-based EIC have pointed out, thong swimsuits are definitely trending on both sides of the pond, even more than they have in decades past.
3. Loincloth Bikinis
Since bubbling up last summer, the loincloth bikini seems to be only gaining steam going into this swim season.
4. Nude Swimsuits
Think anything close enough to your skin color to make your friends (or strangers) do a double take on the beach. I’m not going to lie: With all things neutral trending right now, I’m into it.
5. Complicated Cut-Outs
If we can look as good as Imani in her Inamorata suit, I think we can all agree that the complicated-cut-outs trend is worth the weird tan lines.
Up next, best bandeau bikinis.
This story was originally published on Who What Wear U.S. at an earlier date and has been recently updated.
