Summer isn’t just about beach trips and poolside lounging—it’s about making a statement with your swimwear. Men’s swimwear has evolved far beyond plain trunks and board shorts, offering bold prints, innovative fabrics, and versatile designs that blend style with performance. Whether you’re hitting the waves, lounging at a resort, or enjoying a city rooftop pool, these are the trends you need to watch this season.
Must-Have Swimwear Styles for Men This Summer
1. Tailored Swim Shorts
Gone are the days when swimwear was purely functional and often shapeless. Modern swim shorts embrace a tailored fit, typically hitting mid-thigh or just above the knee, creating a sleek and versatile silhouette that works both in and out of the water. Opt for minimalist designs in solid, neutral colors, such as navy, olive, or muted earth tones—they offer a timeless, sophisticated look that won’t feel dated from season to season.
Beyond the beach or pool, these tailored swim shorts can double as casual summer staples, effortlessly pairing with a crisp linen shirt or lightweight tee for strolls along the boardwalk, seaside cafés, or casual social gatherings. Their smart cut and subtle design details ensure you look polished without sacrificing comfort, making them a true multi-purpose summer essential.
2. Bold Prints and Patterns
For those who want to make a statement by the water, bold prints and patterns are back in full force. Tropical motifs featuring palm leaves, hibiscus flowers, or ocean-inspired graphics instantly evoke a vibrant, vacation-ready vibe. At the same time, abstract art-inspired or geometric designs add a modern, fashion-forward edge. These lively patterns add personality and energy to your beach look, making your swimwear the focal point of your summer wardrobe.
To keep the ensemble balanced, pair bold shorts with neutral tops, sandals, or cover-ups, allowing the patterns to shine without overwhelming the outfit. For the adventurous dresser, mixing and matching pieces—such as pairing patterned swim shorts with a subtly contrasting shirt or complementary prints—can create a dynamic, confident look that turns heads. Choosing the right balance between daring designs and understated elements ensures your beachwear feels stylish, playful, and effortlessly cohesive.
3. Sustainable Swimwear
Eco-conscious fashion has made its way to the beach, and swimwear is no exception. Today, many brands are crafting stylish, high-performance swimsuits from recycled materials, such as regenerated nylon or polyester derived from ocean plastics and discarded textiles. These fabrics not only feel soft, durable, and luxurious against the skin but also minimize environmental impact, allowing you to make a fashion statement with a clear conscience.
When shopping for sustainable swimwear, look for brands that emphasize transparency in their sourcing and production, such as those that highlight sustainability certifications, ethical labor practices, or eco-friendly dyeing methods. Choosing these pieces means you can enjoy vibrant colors, flattering cuts, and long-lasting quality while supporting a more mindful and responsible fashion industry. Sustainable swimwear is no longer just a trend—it’s a smart, stylish choice that aligns with modern values without compromising on performance or aesthetic appeal.
4. Retro-Inspired Styles
Vintage-inspired swimwear is enjoying a significant comeback, bringing nostalgic charm into modern men’s beach fashion. High-waisted trunks, vertical stripes, and bold color-block designs evoke the iconic aesthetics of the 1970s and 1980s, offering a playful yet sophisticated edge. These retro cuts are often slightly shorter than traditional swim shorts, emphasizing clean lines and a tailored fit that flatters a variety of body types while allowing ease of movement.
The appeal of retro swimwear lies in its ability to merge classic style with contemporary sensibilities. Pair a high-waisted, striped trunk with a simple white or neutral tank for a polished, beach-ready look, or embrace color-block patterns for a bold, fashion-forward statement. Whether you’re strolling along the boardwalk or lounging by the pool, retro-inspired designs bring personality, refinement, and a touch of timeless style to your summer wardrobe.
5. Technical Fabrics and Performance Features
Performance swimwear has evolved far beyond competitive swimming—it now blends functionality with modern style. Many contemporary designs feature quick-dry fabrics that keep you comfortable both in and out of the water, four-way stretch materials for unrestricted movement, and UV-protective coatings to shield your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. These technical enhancements make swimwear practical for a variety of activities, from surfing and pool workouts to beach volleyball or simply lounging under the sun. With these performance features, you don’t have to sacrifice comfort or protection for style—your swimwear can excel on both fronts.
6. Mix-and-Match Pieces
Customizable swimwear is becoming a significant trend, giving you the freedom to create your ideal beach ensemble. Pair solid-colored bottoms with patterned tops, or vice versa, to add visual interest and express your personal style. This mix-and-match approach offers versatility and experimentation, allowing you to play with color combinations, textures, and prints without committing to a single all-over design. It’s a fun, fashion-forward way to refresh your summer wardrobe, ensuring your swimwear feels unique, dynamic, and ideally suited to your mood or occasion.
Swimwear for Every Occasion
- Resort-Ready – For a polished, vacation-ready ensemble, pair lightweight linen shirts with tailored swim trunks. Linen’s breathable, airy texture keeps you comfortable in the sun, while the structured swim trunks create a refined silhouette that transitions seamlessly from poolside lounging to casual seaside dining. Neutral shades or soft pastels enhance the sophisticated vibe, making this look ideal for resorts, beach clubs, or tropical getaways where style and ease blend seamlessly.
- Active Swimming – When it’s all about movement and performance, opt for streamlined jammers or board shorts made from stretch fabrics. These designs provide maximum comfort, flexibility, and quick-drying capabilities, making them perfect for laps, surfing, or other water sports. A snug but non-restrictive fit ensures freedom of motion without sacrificing style, combining practicality with a sleek, athletic look.
- Casual Beach Days – For laid-back social outings by the shore, loose-fit swim trunks in bold colors, playful patterns, or retro prints create a relaxed, fun vibe. Pair them with simple tees, tank tops, or open button-down shirts for an effortlessly stylish summer look that’s perfect for beach volleyball, casual walks, or hanging out with friends.
- Night Beach Parties – Evening beach events call for a more refined, minimalistic approach. Dark-toned or muted swimsuits paired with casual leather sandals or slip-ons create a sleek, polished look that’s stylish without appearing overly formal. Accessorize subtly with a watch or a lightweight bracelet, and consider layering with a lightweight linen or cotton shirt for a bright, nighttime-ready ensemble that strikes a balance between comfort and sophistication.
Top Brands Leading the Trends
- Orlebar Brown – Renowned for its tailored approach to swimwear, Orlebar Brown combines sleek silhouettes with sophisticated patterns and colors. Their swim shorts often hit mid-thigh and feature subtle details, such as adjustable waist tabs and smart pockets, allowing them to seamlessly double as casual summer shorts. The brand strikes a balance between elegance and functionality, making it a favorite for resort wear and upscale beach outings.
- Vilebrequin – Famous for its vibrant tropical prints and exceptional fabric quality, Vilebrequin is the go-to brand for bold, statement-making swimwear. Their designs evoke a luxurious, playful vibe, with high-quality materials that feel comfortable both in and out of the water. From eye-catching motifs to precise tailoring, Vilebrequin shorts are ideal for those who want to stand out with a refined sense of style.
- Patagonia & Outerknown – These brands lead the way in sustainable swimwear, crafting stylish options from eco-friendly fabrics like recycled nylon and polyester. Beyond their environmental focus, their swimwear offers durability, comfort, and modern cuts, proving that sustainability can be both practical and fashionable. Selecting pieces from these brands enables you to make a responsible and stylish statement while supporting ethical production practices.
- Speedo & TYR – Perfect for performance-oriented swimmers, Speedo and TYR offer high-function swimwear designed for mobility, quick drying, and durability. Their streamlined silhouettes and advanced materials ensure comfort and function without compromising on style, making them ideal for lap swimming, water sports, or athletic beach activities.
- H&M & Zara – For those who want to experiment with trends without investing heavily, H&M and Zara provide affordable, fashion-forward swimwear options. Their collections often feature bold prints, modern cuts, and seasonal colors, allowing you to easily update your summer wardrobe and try out new styles without a long-term commitment.
Occasions and Styling Tips
- Resort & Vacation – For a polished, vacation-ready ensemble, pair tailored swim shorts with lightweight linen shirts for a touch of breathability and sophistication. Complete the look with straw hats, leather or woven sandals, and subtle accessories, such as a classic watch, to exude effortless elegance. This combination is perfect for poolside lounging, beach clubs, or casual resort dining, creating a look that balances comfort with refined style.
- Casual Beach Days – For relaxed summer outings, opt for comfortable swim trunks or board shorts featuring vibrant patterns, playful prints, or retro designs. Pair with slides, minimalist sneakers, or casual flip-flops to maintain a laid-back, approachable vibe. This style works well for beach volleyball, seaside walks, or social gatherings where ease and personality are key.
- Water Sports – Activities like surfing, paddleboarding, or swimming laps demand swimwear that moves with you. Streamlined jammers or performance-focused shorts made from stretchable, quick-dry fabrics provide the necessary mobility and comfort while keeping you looking sleek. These designs prioritize function without compromising style, allowing you to stay active while maintaining a polished appearance.
- Evening Beach Parties – For nighttime beach events, darker-colored swim trunks paired with minimalist shirts or casually open button-up tops create a refined, stylish aesthetic. Lightweight fabrics, such as linen or soft cotton, keep you comfortable, while subtle accessories, like a leather bracelet or sleek sandals, elevate the look. This approach ensures your outfit feels intentional, sophisticated, and ideally suited for social, evening settings by the shore.
Versatile Swimwear for Men
Men’s swimwear has come a long way, combining fashion-forward aesthetics with comfort, sustainability, and performance. Whether you prefer bold prints, retro-inspired cuts, or minimalistic tailored styles, there’s a trend to suit every personality and occasion. This season, investing in versatile, high-quality swimwear ensures you stay stylish both in and out of the water.
