Best Australian swimwear brands to shop in 2024
From luxe designer brands to more wallet-friendly budget options, we've rounded up the best Australian swimwear brands to get you through the Aussie summer.
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It makes complete sense that Australia has some of the best swimwear brands in the world. After all, we are a country that adores the water, whether that be long, lazy beach days, summer afternoons by the pool or cannonballing into the local river or creek.
The best Australian swimwear brands are ones that design for our lifestyles – there are brands that create tough, supportive swimwear that can withstand a barrage of ocean waves, through to skimpy, strappy fashion styles you can easily throw a sarong or denim shorts over to hit the cafe or bar scene. Either way, Australian swimwear brands understand that a swimming session is a daylong affair, and our bikinis and one-pieces need to function accordingly.
But how do we go about finding the perfect swimwear piece?
Stephanie Korn, Co-Founder of Australian swimwear label Form and Fold, tells news.com.au checkout that it is all about fit.
“While it’s tempting to be drawn to the vibrant colours and fun prints, the fit is the most important aspect of any swimsuit,” she says.
Because as we all know, when we’re comfortable in what we’re wearing that is when we look our best.
Below, you’ll find the best Australian swimwear brands, from bargain sets to luxury labels, including the “super affordable” Cotton On Swim that is so flattering to all body types and which shoppers say is "perfect for big busts".
We also love the Bondi Born swimwear worn by Aussie comedian and media personality Celeste Barber. Five-star reviewers says the Australian label is "super supportive".
BEST AUSTRALIAN SWIMWEAR BRANDS
COTTON ON SWIM
Tried and Tested by Marina Tatas, Shopping Writer
Every summer, I look through Aussie swimwear catalogues, hoping to find something super luxe but each and every year, I always go back to Cotton On. They’re super affordable, so I can’t complain, and I usually buy one new bikini set from them every summer. They have such gorgeous prints and colours and I love that there are loads of different top and bottom styles to mix and match with. I wear them all summer long, washing them and they still hold their shape. Big tick in my books!
Art director, model and stylist Hloni Sepanya posted on Instagram wearing the brand and received dozens of comments about how "gorgeous" she looked.
"Love seeing a curvy queen," wrote one fan while others commented "Goddess", "Obsessed with you" and "Stunning".
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
Slider Triangle Bikini Top, $13.60 (down from $24.99) at THE ICONIC
You’ll love this super affordable bikini top with fully adjustable neck and back straps. We also love the wide variety of colours on offer. Honestly, it's a dream bikini.
Underwire Balconette Bikini Top, $23.99 (down from $29.99) at THE ICONIC
For those with a bigger bust, this bikini top has an underwire to offer greater support than your usual triangle top.
BONDI-BORN
Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, Shopping Writer
This majority female-owned-and-run business is renowned for its high-quality fabrics, such as the popular Sculpteur fabric, which helps support and flatter the female body while remaining breathable and light, allowing for movement – whether that be swimming laps, or rolling over on your beach towel.
I have a black bikini top from them as well as a one-piece and they’re one of my favourites. They’re super supportive without being frumpy and they also look so chic. A true win-win.
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
Lori Bikini Top, $195 at THE ICONIC
The bold blue cobalt is one of the colours this season, so try it out yourself in this classic bikini top with a squared neckline and plenty of support.
Maika One Piece, $295 at THE ICONIC
This sleek one-piece has a low back adding a little something extra to your average black pair of swimmers. The swim fabric also offers plenty of stretch while also feeling supportive.
BYDEE
What You Need To Know
Founded by local Aussie, Dessy Hairis, at her parent's kitchen table in Sydney in 2013, the swimwear brand is now one of Australia's top fashion exports. Worn by celebrities including Millie Bobby Brown, Alessandra Ambrósio, Winnie Harlow, Bella Hadid and TikTok personality Alix Earle, the brand is having its moment in the sun right now. What sets the brand apart? Their sizing and adjustability.
“At the markets, the most common question was ‘I’m this cup size but I have quite a small underbust, how can we make sure it fits me?’” she previously told news.com.au checkout. “So I was actually doing alterations at the markets, then I knew as we expanded I’m like, ‘I can’t alter everyone’s bikinis! So I made sure that we did have adjustability in pretty much all of our styles.”
WHAT WE'RE LOVING
This bikini from Bydee is one of their bestsellers and it's not hard to see why. Made with an adjustable double strap, adjustable triangle cup and adjustable underbust band you can be sure this top will fit you well.
Tulum one piece in Quemada, $139
We love the tie-back closure on this one-piece as well as the rust-orange colourway that works just as well as a bodysuit as it does a swimming costume.
SAINT SOMEBODY
What You Need Need To Know
Founded by Aussie Sophie Henderson-Smart in 2018, Saint Somebody is a size-inclusive brand that ranges from size 8 to 28. The brand is made with ethical and sustainable design that focuses on empowering women of all sizes.
"Inspired by all women and their beautiful, diverse, remarkable bodies we create pieces that feel incredible to wear. Luxury fashion isn't only for one body type, nor should it dictate how we view our bodies," says founder Sophie on their website.
WHAT WE'RE LOVING
'Come As You Are' One-Piece, $250
This classic black one-piece is crafted from premium fabric with two layers of firm stretch and in-built support for you to stay and feel comfortable all day long. Other features include adjustable ties at the shoulder, medium to full coverage at the leg and to the rear, structured under-bust support with a shelf bra and boning at the sides.
Mystery of Love Bikini Top, $170
For those with bigger busts or for anyone not into the classic triangle bikini shape, this bandeau-style bikini top is the way to go. It's made with hidden unwire and smoothing premium fabric so there'll be no worries about any accidental flashing after diving under a wave or two at the beach. Get the matching bottoms here.
SEAFOLLY
What You Need To Know
One of Australia’s oldest swimwear brands, Seafolly was created way back in 1975. The brand caters for all including more relaxed fashion pieces as well as designed catered for adventurers, with many of its pieces featuring highly supportive structure such as underwire, thick straps and comfortable cuts.
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
Collective Cross Back One Piece Swimsuit In Black, $169.95 at Myer
We are obsessed with the shape of this one-piece swimsuit. The deep V-neck is super flattering and the details around the waist will hug your curves in all the right places. Plus, the cross back not only looks good but helps to provide a bit more support for the bust too.
“This swimsuit looks so good on. Flattering but feels supportive and not too high cut at the back. I love it,” wrote one five-star review.
Embroidery Tiered Dress in White, $139.95 at Myer
Seafolly doesn’t just nail swimwear, they make clothing too. The Embroidery Tiered Dress in White is the perfect cover-up to throw over your swimsuit. It also doubles as simply a great dress on its own so you can wear it out during the day and night too.
JETS
What You Need To Know
Jets have been an Australian swimwear favourite for over 20 years, thanks to its supportive, flattering cuts and consistency when it comes to attention to detail and sophistication. The label is particularly loved by those with bigger bust sizes, with many styles catering to DD+ and offering high levels of support so you look and feel your best.
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
JETS Isla Rib V-Neck Belted One Piece, $192 (down from $240) at THE ICONIC
The deep plunge on this one-piece is super flattering and is sure to make a statement on your beach day. We also love the addition of the belt around the waist. It’s the perfect combination of sophistication and sexy.
JETS Low Back Halter Dress, $260 at THE ICONIC
This summer, red is having its moment and this linen pick is at the top of our list. It’s the perfect dress to throw over your swimsuit or to wear on itss own. We love how easy it is to simply pop on, plus it's great if you're on holiday and going straight from the beach to the bar.
MODIBODI
What You Need To Know
Thirteen years ago, while experiencing light incontinence and finding herself sick of using disposable hygiene products, mum-of-four Kristy Chong began her quest to find a better alternative. That's when the idea of leak-proof underwear struck and Modibodi was born. All Modibodi products are put through a rigorous scientific process to ensure absorbency and breathability. They're also all leak-proof to 100 washes and free from harmful substances.
And now... they've just launched their very own period-proof swimmers.
WHAT WE'RE LOVING
Swimwear Hi-Waist Bikini Brief, $36.97 (down from $45.99)
This bikini bottom feels exactly like your favourite pair of swimmers but can hold up to two tampons worth of period blood so you can swim without the worry of any unwanted leaks. Plus, the retro high-waist design is super flattering too.
Swimwear One-Shoulder One-Piece, $59.99 (down from $99.99)
If you want a one-piece that satisfies both form and function, this is the way to go. Crafted with a concealed lining to absorb light periods in and out of the water, this chic one-shoulder swimming costume will soon become your go-to even when you don't have your period.
BOND-EYE
What You Need To Know
Created in Bondi, Bond-Eye uses a unique tubular crinkle fabric (you might remember it from ’80s swimwear if you’re old enough) to make flattering, four-way stretch bikinis and one-pieces that maintain their stretch and fit, swim after swim. You’ll find an array of cuts that suit different body types, from cut-out maillot styles to supportive crops.
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
Low Palace One Piece Eco, $132 (down from $165) at THE ICONIC
Who doesn’t love a classic one-piece? The shape and cut of this one is designed to offer a super flattering fit, while also making sure you feel comfortable at the beach. Plus, we love the vibrant blue colour.
Sasha Crop, $100 (down from $125) at THE ICONIC
This crop-top style bikini top is made from a ribbed seersucker fabrication and doesn't include any cups, padding or wires.
MATTEAU
Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, Shopping Writer
Founded by sister duo Ilona Hamer and Peta Heinsen, Matteau has always been about creating swimwear that makes women feel beautiful, with simple designs that are created to last a lifetime. Each season, you’ll find many of the same styles – just in new colourways or prints.
I’ve had a black bikini from them for years now and every summer I bring it out and it’s like brand new. I love the way it hugs and supports my body in all the right places plus it’s seriously so chic.
Less about trends and more about longevity, Matteau swimwear might be pricey, but it’s worth the money.
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
The Square swimsuit, $300 at Net-a-Porter
If you’re looking for a chic one-piece, the square style is the one to go for. It has a gorgeous low back and is made from stretch nylon so it sculpts your silhouette without feeling restrictive. Plus the square neckline is super flattering.
Printed organic silk pareo,$588 at Net-a-Porter
If you're looking for a chic coverup, look no further. Crafted from organic silk, this is far from your average beach dress. The deep brown and black floral motif will also work with any pair of black swimmers.
PEONY
What You Need To Know
Peony Swimwear never fail to release collections that will make you feel utterly beautiful and feminine. With ruching and ruffles, tie-sides and vintage-inspired cuts, their swimwear collections are always considered and timeless. Their prints are hand-sketched in house prior to release, and the label even makes custom fabrics for their pieces. You’ll have to be quick, though – items often sell out fast.
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
Holiday Balconette, $140 at THE ICONIC
Combining vintage with luxury, this balconette bikini top looks super feminine and delicate, while also giving you a supportive and flattering fit.
Strapless Cut Out One Piece, $208 (down from $260) at THE ICONIC
This super sweet one-piece features a strapless style with a cut-out at the back and sides to create a fun and feminine costume. The pink floral print is the ideal cherry on top.
ZULU AND ZEPHYR
What You Need To Know
Zulu & Zephyr is an Aussie beachside favourite, offering an array of gorgeous printed swim designs and ready-to-wear clothing pieces. The brand has a strong focus on creating clothing from sustainable design practices, so we’re giving it a big tick of approval.
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
Tie One Piece, $216 (down from $270) at THE ICONIC
Get summer ready with this chic brown one-piece. It has a high leg cut but also medium bottom coverage so it's the best of both worlds.
Rib Tie Bralette, $140 at THE ICONIC
If you’re a lover of neutrals and pastels, you’ll adore this sweet sky-blue bikini. It ties in the middle for a sweet bow addition and has a sweetheart neckline, unlike the usual triangle cut. Get the matching bottoms here.
FORM AND FOLD
Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, Shopping Writer
As someone with a fairly big bust, finding swimwear that a) fits and b) actually looks somewhat stylish has been the bane of my existence. OK, that may be a tad over the top but I’ve definitely had my fair share of breakdowns in a change room.
That was at least until I discovered Form and Fold.
Founded by two women with DD+ busts who were struggling to find flattering, supportive swimwear in their size, Form and Fold release a limited range of colourways each year, across a small run of styles. Why? Because their swimwear is designed for longevity, they only make styles that can support D-G bust sizes.
I am obsessed. This is a massive game-changer for me. Not only are their pieces super supportive and secure without digging in, but they’re also incredibly flattering.
Yes, they’re expensive but considering the amount of time I have spent over the years trying to find swimmers that work for me, they’re 100 per cent worth it in my eyes. Do yourself a favour. You won’t regret it.
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
The Square Underwire D-G One Piece, $290 at THE ICONIC
This is far from your average one piece. Inspired by 90s swimwear, it features a high cut that offers mid rear coverage, a flattering square neckline and a built in underwire bra.
The Crop Underwire D-G Top, $210 at THE ICONIC
Who knew a simple bikini top could be so supportive? This one right here is made for bigger bust sizes and is a must-have for your wardrobe.
SIR
What You Need To Know
The Australian fashion label that hit the big-time when they designed sleek linen dresses that dominated summer style for years, Sir is now one of Australia’s top designer brands. With an affinity for summer style, it makes sense that their swimwear is, year on year, absolutely perfect – with collections that feature a mix of modest one-piece cuts and trend-driven styles.
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
Jeanne Beaded String Triangle Top, $100
The delicate beading detailing on the front of this bikini top adds the perfect touch to this otherwise timeless bikni style.
New Wave V-Neck One Piece, $220
This graphic one-piece from Sir is crafted from form-fitting lycra and features a v-neck with halter ties that finish with a cluster of beds on the left strap.
LOUNGE
What You Need To Know
Founded in 2015 by Australian couple, Mel and Dan, Lounge's mission is "comfort made sexy" which is something I think we can all get behind. On their website, they write that their "aim is simple: To support and encourage women worldwide to feel sexy and comfortable in everything that they are. Every woman is welcome here." Their swimwear pieces are made in a range of classic cuts designed to flatter the body and make the wearer feel confident.
WHAT WE'RE LOVING:
Signature Bikini Top, $42 (down from $60) at Lounge
This timeless bikini top features underwire for extra support and also goes up to 3XL making it one of the most inclusive mainstream bikinis on the market right now. It also features adjustable straps and clasp fastening.
Statement One Piece Swimsuit, $73.50 (down from $105) at Lounge
Looking for a black one-piece that actually has a bit of a character? We love the scoop low back of this one from Lounge, especially paired with the cheeky brief design. Other features include rose gold Lounge engraved hardware, adjustable straps and a tonal striped fabrication.
ARTESANDS
What You Need To Know
Artesands make beautifully crafted swimwear for curves, featuring fantastic bust support and a power mesh fabric that helps support and have you feeling secure in your togs. With a size range from 12 to 24, Artesands’ collections feature a mix of bikinis, swim dresses, tankinis and one-pieces that feature beautiful detail such as ruching, cut-outs and ruffles.
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
Wuk-tjarra Magritte One Piece $127.96 (down from $104.95) at THE ICONIC
If you’re obsessed with pretty multi-coloured prints, you’ll love this one-piece. It offers bust support and power mesh fabrication to ensure you feel secure and lifted while at the beach.
Aria Black Giotto Underwire One Piece, $149.95 at THE ICONIC
This one-piece with built in underwire is designed to flatter and shape your body like never before.
ANDIE SWIM
What You Need To Know
If you’re all about supporting small female-owned and run fashion labels, then you may want to check out Andie Swim. No matter what size or shape you are, they’ve got swimwear to make you look and feel great. The best part? The swimwear range is crafted from an eco nylon, a recycled post-consumer plastic.
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
This classic one-piece swimsuit is one of those staple items that we bet you won’t stop reaching for. It looks good on everyone – check out the ‘Comfortable looks good on you’ campaign – and come in loads of colours and prints. We also love that you can adjust it for a short or long torso, and can also pick how much bottom coverage you want – cheeky, medium or full.
The High Waisted Cheeky Bottom, $92
Rock a bikini without losing support, thanks to this high-waisted fit. It’s crafted from a ribbed fabric, so it looks super flattering on and the slightly cheeky cut on the back adds a flirty touch.
ZIMMERMANN
What You Need To Know
Zimmermann has been a jewel of Australian fashion for decades – now a global label adored by celebrities and high fashion fans, the brand still embodies the spirit of Australia, making show stopping yet somehow effortless resort wear each year that has you dreaming of lush holidays with cocktails in hand. Expect beautiful, feminine swimstyles with a nod to the ‘70s.
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
Separates Sculpt cutout paisley-print bandeau swimsuit, $290 (down from $482) at The Outnet
If you love floral prints, this cut-out swimsuit should be at the top of your list. It’s sexy, feminine and most importantly, will hug your curves in all the right places.
Colour-block bikini, $135 (down from $448) at The Outnet
The colour-blocking feature of this bikini set is super on trend right now, plus we love the side tie detailing on the bottoms.
LORNA JANE
What You Need To Know
While you may have associated Lorna Jane with activewear, the Australian female-founded brand also creates swimwear for you to rock at the beach in style. The pieces are made to be supportive and comfortable, allowing you to actually move at the beach – whether that’s going for a surf, kicking a ball around or going for a round of beach volleyball.
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
Relaxation Crimped One Piece, $96 (down from $120)
Everyone needs a supportive black one-piece, and we love this one from Lorna Jane. It comes equipped with a built-in bra and is designed from a moisture-wicking fabric – perfect for you to stay active in the water.
Cali Contrast Swim Bra, $40 (down from $75)
With adjustable straps, removable padding and a beautiful wrap tie design, this swim bra is sure to make a statement on the beach. We’re obsessed with the contrasting pink colour scheme.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING SWIMWEAR
When choosing swimwear brands to include in our list, we evaluated several factors:
Fabric: Material is probably one of the most important aspects when it comes to buying a new pair of swimmers. You want it to dry quickly enough that you can pop on again for an afternoon swim, but you also want it to be thick enough that it won't go see-through when wet.
Style: Buying swimwear can be very a stressful experience (take it from me who's had more than one breakdown in a changeroom) which is why we made sure to have a range of styles and silhouettes that can suit all body types and shapes.
Trendy or timeless: Are you looking for a classic black one-piece that you'll keep for years or a more on-trend bikini that's all the rage right now?
Budget: When it comes to swimmers, prices range a lot so we made sure to include many brands with different prices to suit all budgets.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
With hundreds of swimwear brands available, it’s impossible to test every one out there. To help you find the best one we tested a few well-known swimwear brands at different price points. In addition, our shopping team read hundreds of customer reviews and looked at test results and ratings from product review sites to find the best swimwear brand from premium to budget to help you find the right one for your summer.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT SWIMWEAR STYLES ARE TRENDING FOR SUMMER 2024/25?
According to Stephanie, swimwear trends for summer 2024/25 are continuing to draw inspiration from the ’80s and ’90s fashion.
“Women are loving the shapes and styles from these eras as they celebrate curves,” she says. High-cut bikini bottoms are the standout trend making their return, says Stephanie, which she loves as they are not only “stylish” but also “flattering for various body types”.
WHAT SWIMWEAR STYLE DO YOU RECOMMEND FOR WOMEN WITH LARGER BUSTS?
There is no one-size-fits-all rule for women with larger busts when it comes to swimwear. Stephanie says that it largely depends on the individual and is a personal and nuanced decision.
“Some breast shapes suit a plunge-style top that provides the right amount of support and coverage and others a balconette top for a more secure fit,” she says.
WHAT MATERIAL IS BEST FOR SWIMWEAR?
Stephanie says to look out for materials that are light enough to not hold weight when wet but also thick enough to support the body.
WHAT SHOULD I LOOK OUT FOR WHEN BUYING NEW SWIMWEAR?
Most important is fit, according to Stephanie. “Pay attention to how well the swimsuit supports and complements you and your body shape,” she says.
“After all, you’ll be spending all day in it half-naked, you want to feel secure and comfortable.”
HOW SHOULD I CARE FOR MY SWIMWEAR?
Caring for your swimwear is essential to ensure it remains in good condition and prolongs its lifespan. Stephanie suggests rinsing after chlorine and hand washing your swimsuit with cold water.
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