Shopping for swimwear can be a bit of a minefield. There are thousands of different styles to choose from, and an endless list of essentials. It's seriously difficult to find that one all-encompassing poolside piece that will be flattering, stylish and comfortable in one fell swoop.
Enter: belted swimwear. If the last few years of Love Island are anything to go by, tiny thong-style bikinis have reigned supreme, but it seems that for summer 2025, many top designers are leaning in favour of more retro shapes.
Belted swimsuits first rose to prominence in the 1950s, accentuating hourglass silhouettes in an era obsessed with Hollywood glamour. Revived in the 1970s and again in the 2010s, the belt became both a decorative and practical detail - sculpting the waist and adding vintage flair. Today, the style nods to timeless femininity while offering a flattering, structured fit.
© GettyChanel's monochrome belted swimsuit, which debuted at their SS22 show, continues to live rent free in our mind. Worn by Dutch model Yasmin Wijnaldum, the piece featured a white colourway with contrasting black trims, effortlessly leaning into the monochrome palettes championed by the collection.
It might feel a little bit retro, but we predict that swimsuits will be huge this year. In fact, the cinched-in look creates a beautiful silhouette and there are some great belted options out there. Brands such as Valentino and Alexandra Miro have all incorporated cinching shapes into their summer collections, promising comfort and confidence with every stroke.
Discover our top belted swimwear picks to boost your holiday wardrobe below.
Best stylish belted swimwear pieces for summer:
Isola Bella One-Piece Swimsuit
Away That Day
With its ruched waist, sun-baked hue and sculptural belt, this one-piece by Away That Day channels Riviera elegance with a conscious twist - crafted from regenerated ocean plastic for swimwear that’s as sustainable as it is chic.
Escape Belted Swimsuit
Valentino
Valentino’s belted Escape swimsuit is the epitome of poolside polish - cut in classic noir with a high-cut leg and statement buckle, it recalls the drama of old-school glamour, reimagined through a modern, minimalist lens.
White Contrast Belted Swimsuit
Mint Velvet
A lesson in quiet luxury, Mint Velvet’s belted contrast swimsuit pairs clean lines with monochrome sophistication. The crisp white belt defines the waist, while soft scoop edges lend a subtle nod to retro femininity.
Jeanie Belted Printed Swimsuit
Alexandra Miro
Bursting with citrus motifs and cinched by a coordinating belt, Alexandra Miro’s Jeanie swimsuit is a vibrant ode to statement swimwear. Sculptural yet playful, it’s designed to turn heads from poolside to parasol.
Lumière Shells Embellished Swimsuit
Oséree
Oséree's sparkling chocolate one piece is Ibiza glamour personified. A playful alternative to classic belted options, this glimmering pick comes complete with a retro gold coin belt - ensuring you sparkle under the summer sun at all times.
Lefkada Square Neck Swimsuit
Boden
Ideal for Greek getaways, Boden's Lefkada Square Neck Swimsuit is an affordable choice that oozes high octane glamour. Gold belt detailing make for an elegant addition to this firming swimsuit, which is set to become your new summer staple.
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