AMERICAN FORK 10/28/2011 3:23:34 AM
News / Fashion

Projected Top Swimwear Trends for 2012

The season’s hottest styles for the hottest weather

The swimwear trends for the upcoming year feature something for every body shape and size. Designers have trotted out stripes, florals, animal prints and more, which each design more flattering than the last.

"Retro styles leave more to the imagination than your standard bikini or high-cut 1-piece," said Lori Bacon, president of Swimco. "This season's will be one of the most flattering collections I've seen in my 30 years of buying swimwear.”

This year there is an even wider selection of plus size swimwear, meant to enhance a curvier woman’s body shape.

"It's encouraging to see swimwear designers celebrating a woman's curves by offering beautiful styles that will make her look and feel her best on the beach,” said Bacon.

Metalics have been in style for the past few years, but neutrals and nudes have made a comeback this year in the swimsuit category. Feminine touches like ruffles, polka dots and molded cups are more prevalent than ever before, and because of this focus on enhancing a woman’s natural shape, swimwear sales are expected to be higher than previous years – especially due to a recovering economy.

Swimsuits this year have taken a step back from the outrageously daring trends that only perfect models would wear and have instead focused on flattering more natural shapes. Smaller cutouts and more reserved prints will be popular along with body-shaping one-pieces and tankinis.