My approach to shopping typically focuses on building out a foundation of classic pieces that I can wear for years. I follow a quality-over-quantity and less-is-more philosophy and prioritize investing in well-made pieces that I know I’ll return to rather than trendy styles I’ll wear for only one season. While that applies to building-block pieces in my wardrobe, including everything from jeans to T-shirts to outerwear, I have the same mindset when it comes to swimwear.
Over the years, I’ve collected some key classic swimwear styles that I return to each year for the summer months and beachside vacations or hotels with pools. I’ve put research into the best brands and the styles to invest in from each and have tested many of them myself. Ahead, the best classic swimsuits to shop if you’re after items that are timeless, elegant closet mainstays.
Matteau
One of the swimsuit brands I recommend and wear most often is Matteau. The Australian brand, co-founded by sisters Ilona Hamer and Peta Heinsen, masters a minimalist and modern take on classic swimwear with clean lines and performance fabrics.
Eres
Perhaps no swimwear brand is more classic than Eres, known as the height of quality in the swim world. I think of it as the Hermès of swimsuits. Iconic styles from the Les Essentiels collection return each season in new colorways.
Hunza G
Hunza Z is known for its signature scrunched seersucker fabric that is found throughout the collection in an array of silhouettes, including standout styles such the Xandra two-piece and Camille one-piece. Celebrity fans include Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Hailey Bieber, and Selena Gomez.
Tory Burch
Infused with classic shapes and finishes, Tory Burch swimwear often feels like it's plucked from another era. Many of the swimsuits are designed with hourglass-shaped silhouettes and special hardware such as the clips on the straps of its one-pieces and bikinis—a style that is brought back each year in new colorways and prints.
Missoni
For swimsuits that incorporate strong prints and colors, nothing is more classic to add to your wardrobe and suitcase than Missoni. The iconic zigzag pattern, which was originated at the brand in 1962, remains as relevant in fashion now as it was when it was first introduced over six decades ago.
Pucci
Italian fashion house Pucci is also known for its striking signature prints that incorporate vibrant geometric designs and swirls that grew to popularity in the 1960s and 1970s. These same prints continue to add a classic spin on personality-forward swimwear to beaches in the summer.
Solid & Striped
While Solid & Striped has a range of new prints and designs each season, there are many classic styles that have been part of the brand since the beginning. Styles including the Anne-Marie are so classic that they return each year in updated versions.
