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 as well as the ultra supportive Form and Fold.
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.
In this article
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’s 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!
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
Balconette Bra Bikini Top, $29.99
You’ll love this super affordable underwire bikini top with fully adjustable straps and closures. We also love the wide variety of colours on offer.
Available in a huge range of fun colours and prints, this beach shirt is the perfect cover up to throw on after the beach or pool.
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 swim suit 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 has 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:
JETSET Plunge One Piece, $220 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 luxe gold hardware on the waist. It’s the perfect combination of sophistication and sexy.
JETSET Beach Robe, $180 at THE ICONIC
This summer, the beach robe is having its moment and this linen pick is at the top of our list. It’s the perfect accessory to throw over your swimsuit, and it’s an elevated alternative to the standard beach shirt. We love how easy it is to simply pop on, plus the long sleeves help to protect from the sun.
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, and they only make styles that can support D-G bust sizes.
I an obsessed. This is a massive gamechanger for me. Not only are their pieces super supportive and secure without digging in, but they’re also incredibly flattering too.
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, $330 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, $180
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.
ENDLESS
What You Need To Know
Sydney-based label Endless does fantastic fashion swimwear – expect skimpy bottoms, Love Island style, and strappy tops – all perfect for holiday pool days and lazing around on the beach. Each cut comes in a variety of colourways and patterns, which makes choosing your swimwear easy.
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
Santorini Halter One-Piece, $69.99 at THE ICONIC
This halter style one-piece adds a unique element to your swimwear collection and it comes in a super wearable black, that will suit all body shapes and sizes.
Daydreamer Sarong, $49.99 at THE ICONIC
Available in black, pink and green, this adjustable sarong is a great addition to your beach bag.
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.
Floral-print recycled underwired balconette bikini top, $208.54 at Net-a-Porter
This bikini top is crafted from 80 per cent recycled nylon and 20 per cent elastane to create that perfect stretchy material that sculpts to your body. We love the supportive underwired cups and adjustable shoulder straps for extra personalisation. Plus the sweet floral print is the perfect touch.
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, $85
Rock a bikini without loosing 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.
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 very sleek. A true win-win.
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
Winona Bikini Top, $195 at THE ICONIC
The bold blue cobalt is one of the it 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.
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, $175
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.
Nino Crop Eco Bikini Top, $125
This strappy bikini top is super supportive and can also be worn as a crop top with a summer-ready skirt or pair of pants.
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:
Combining vintage with luxury, this balconette bikini top looks super feminine and delicate, while also giving you a supportive and flattering fit.
This super sweet one piece features an open back with wrap around waist ties to create a fun and feminine costume. The pink gingham print is the ideal cherry on top.
TIGERLILY
What You Need To Know
Founded in 2000, Tigerlily has always been an Australian go-to for bohemian fashion and swimwear. Each collection oozes laid-back, modern hippie charm with plenty of prints and gorgeous detail like metal charms and cut-outs. A bonus is that all the Tigerlily swimwear prints each season also feature across fashion, so you can buy matching throw-on dresses, skirts and palazzo pants to turn your swim into style.
WHAT WE’RE LOVING:
Pashmina Nalani Tri – Sunset Splice, $99
Looking for a simple triangle bikini top? We love the simple detailing and gorgeous print on this one right here.
Tigerlily is known for their beautiful prints, and this one is no exception. It’s loud, proud and made from this unique patchwork design. And who doesn’t love a gorgeous mini dress for the beach?
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:
Boca Raton Goya Underwire G Cup Bikini Top, $104.95
If you’re obsessed with pretty multi-coloured prints, you’ll love this bikini top. 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
This one-piece with built in underwire is designed to flatter and shape your body like never before.
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:
Rib One Piece, $250 at THE ICONIC
Get summer ready with this adorable baby pink one-piece, plus it comes equipped with plenty of support.
Tie Balconette Bra Cup, $140 at THE ICONIC
If you’re a lover of prints, you’ll adore this retro striped bikini. The straps are adjustable and there is an underwire construction for extra support too.
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:
Marlon Knot Top, $70 (down from $160)
The delicate twist detailing on the front of this bikini top is super flattering, plus we love the brown and white spotty print.
Idalia V Neck One Piece, $90 (down from $280
Obsessed with florals? Go for this 70s inspired one piece, available in this fabulous rust colour.
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’re loving 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, $60 (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.
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 showstopping yet somehow effortless resortwear each year that has you dreaming of lush holidays with cocktails in hand. Expect beautiful, feminine swim styles 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, $269 (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.
WHAT SWIMWEAR STYLES ARE TRENDING FOR SUMMER 2023/24?
According to Stephanie, swimwear trends for summer 2023/24 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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Originally published as Best Australian swimwear brands to shop in 2023
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