As the spring season rolls in and the snow begins to melt (slowly but surely), every person who experiences some semblance of seasons rejoice. Unfortunately, the ability to spend time outdoors comes with a price, and that price is swimsuit season.
Every spring, we all must decide whether or not go through the horror of swimsuit shopping. Like clockwork, the days get longer, spring break plans get made, and old swimsuits are thrown out. At that point, we are faced with a choice: go through the arduous, expensive process of swimsuit shopping or avoid getting a new one at all costs.
RELATED: Cute Swimwear You Can Actually Afford
A select few women enjoy swimsuit shopping, and to those women, cheers. For the rest of us mortals, let’s face it: shopping for a swimsuit is awful. Either the fit is off, the price is way too high, or it is just plain ugly.
Unfortunately, I haven’t fully cracked the code on making swimsuit shopping enjoyable, but I can at least make it easier. Rather than scrolling endlessly through Instagram for a brand that fits your price point, I rounded up my favorite brands, so you can find something you love regardless of your budget.
Frugal Fashionista: $50 and Under
- Target: A tried and true staple, we have known its magic since middle school. Target is home to some of the best budget friendly swimwear.
- Zara: Yes Zara sells swim. Yes it is on-trend. Yes you can afford it.
- Zaful: Though the website experience can be off-putting, Zaful offers some great suits at super affordable prices. Pieces run small, so make sure to size up.
- Amazon: Do not knock it till you try it. Scroll through Amazon’s swimwear. You won’t love every piece, but finding a great deal on a trendy suit is much easier than you think.
- Forever21: Yes they have a million styles and the store is impossible to navigate. Instead, check out their website for cute, budget friendly styles.
Mid-range Mama $100 and Under:
- Lulus: Home to the hottest brands out there, Lulus is a must when it comes to swimsuits shopping.
- ASOS: No matter what the trend, ASOS has an option for you. Looking for a one piece filled with cutouts? Crazy prints a must? Neon caught your eye? ASOS, ASOS, ASOS.
- Topshop: Slightly elevated fast fashion means slightly elevated swimwear prices, but with the amount of styles available finding something in your price range is easy enough.
- Sabo Skirt: Australian fashion is one of my favorites. Not only does Sabo Skirt have great clothing options, but it also has adorable, minimalist suits.
- & Other Stories: What & Other Stories lacks in options it makes up for in originality. Don one of these at the pool and you are guaranteed to be one of a kind.
- PacSun: My eyes were opened to PacSun’s swim collection a few seasons ago. I should’ve realized it sooner based on their California girl clientele but better late than never.
- Triangl: Another Australian brand that’s made its way onto all of our Instagram feeds. Each set comes in a multitude of colors and costs $89.
- Nordstrom Rack: Here, the only guarantee is a good deal. If you are looking for a great brand at a great cost, this is the place to be.
- Rhythm: My beige tie up one piece from Rhythm is one of my favorite swimsuits I have ever owned. It fits well and it was only $55.
- Aerie: Their un-retouched images show what a swimsuit would look on a regular body type (finally). Plus, swimwear is always on sale.
- Lively: I recently became a Lively bra convert, and their swim is no different. Their simple, mod styles can fit a wide range of styles, and their prices fits an even wider range of budgets.
Splurgey Spender $100 and Over:
- Solid and Striped: Confession: Solid and Striped is one of my all time favorite brands. Is it budget friendly? Not in the least. The one pieces range in price from $138-$178, but if you keep an eye on the sale section, you can find one for around $100. After stalking the site before a spring break trip, I can attest it is worth the splurge.
- Onia: Speaking of Instagram, if you have an account, you have seen some of their collections – more specifically the WeWoreWhat collaboration. Yes they are on the pricier side, but if you got the cash, why not?
- Peony: Their sophisticated aesthetic was hint enough that this brand was going to be a splurge, but if you are looking for elegant swimwear, look no further.
- Monday Swimwear: Developed by mega-influencer Tash Oakley, this line pairs neutral shades with daring shapes. Plus their models range in body type *praise hands emoji*.
