It’s August and it is peak summertime here in the Lower Mainland. We think that is reason enough for you to plan your next sun-filled getaway!

From buzzy neon and animal print pieces to timeless polka dot and sustainable swimsuits, here’s what everyone is obsessing over this summer.

Neon hues have been championed by the likes of House of Holland, Prada, and Off-White for the last few seasons. And they’re more flattering than you might first think because super bright shades create the illusion of a deeper tan. Hot, hot pink and bright sunshine yellow are super popular colors this year! Look at these gorgeous suits at The Bay.

Hudson’s Bay

One of the newest trends to emerge for this season is anything and everything knotted and belted. Pretty yet practical, knotted bikinis and swimsuits allow for customization (a bit of hoisting, tightening and perhaps loosening, towards the end of your holiday). Because you know you’re going to be enjoying those bellinis and buffet dinners. That’s half the fun of your holiday! You go for it girl! Love these suits from H&M.

H&M

And, no surprise to me, animal prints returned with a vengeance this year. You’ve got every print you can think of: leopard, tiger stripes, zebra and cow spots, too! The most popular animal print is the sexy leopard print. I might get brave and give that a whirl…I’m not so sure about the cow spots, however. But, luckily for us, Swimco has a suit for every size and shape. They even have a “miracle suit” that really is a miracle. You look 10 lbs thinner just by putting on this suit. Whoohoo! And check out the fun leopard bathing suit at Urban Planet!

Swimco

Urban Planet

If you enjoy a vintage vibe the ever-popular polka-dot is having yet another moment. Contrary to popular belief, your polka dot swimwear doesn’t need to be an itsy bitsy, teeny weeny polka dot bikini! You can go retro with a belted swimsuit, or a suit with ruched sides, so you can control the coverage. I like that! A fun look that is very flattering to the upper leg. H&M has the cutest suits.

H&M

And at last, sustainable swimwear is no longer a token part of collections – and that’s down to customer demand. More and more shoppers are now actively seeking out eco-friendly brands. There is a range of swimwear made from recycled bottles, fishing nets, and plastic. Who would have thought that you can have a really attractive suit made of these materials? And you’re helping the planet at the same time. That’s a win-win in my books! The lululemon Pop-Up coming to Willowbrook Shopping Centre this summer has some really cool swimwear.

lululemon Pop-Up

Another innovative trend is rashguard swimsuits. These swimsuits with sun protection are great for a day in the water if you don’t want to burn. These sporty and stylish suits are getting more popular as shoppers are becoming more and more conscious of the dangers of sun damage. There is a large variety of rashguard swimsuits for children too as most parents are trying to be very proactive now. For rashguard suits and wetsuits, the place to shop is Mountain Warehouse and Swimco.

Mountain Warehouse

Swimco

You know you’re so eager to get in the water as soon as possible. So it’s time to bite the bullet and go shopping so you can enjoy some fun in the sun.

Have a great summer!