Top Picks From the 2012 Swimwear Collections

Envision this: bikini tops, rolled-up shorts, straw hats, hip sunglasses, sandy feet, late nights… yes, the list goes on. Summer is around the corner and once again it’s time to think about sexy swimsuits and cute boys (or maybe handsome dudes!). Designers all over have unveiled their new 2012 swimwear collections. From sassy and quirky to classy and sporty, each brand has come up with its distinct flavor. We researched and analyzed and here are our top picks from the several swimwear collections that hit the beachwear scene.

A sexy pass to Brazil with Victoria’s Secret 2012 Swim Collection

Victoria’s Secret’s 2012 Beach Sexy and Very Sexy collections with supermodels Candice Swanepoel, Adriana Lima, Jasmine Tookes and Elyse Taylor features stunning swimsuits “inspired by Brazil-the land of beautiful people and itty-bitty bikinis.

The sultry models heat up the fashion scene with jaw-dropping bikinis loaded with exotic prints, cutesy polka dots, sexy low-rise bottoms, halter tops and more. Extra flirty details like side ties, peek-a-boo keyholes, sweet ruffles and feminine bows add a special oomph to the complete lineup. Our most coveted piece? A jungle bandeau top featuring a rich blend of colors embellished with golden rings and side ties.

Monif C. Resort 2012 Collection keeps it glamorous for the plus-size

Monif C. opens a new spectrum for the curvy woman with her 2012 Resort Collection. The ace designer explores the retro, the wild and the exquisite with gorgeous high-waist bikini bottoms and fringe one-piece in leopard prints and bold solid colors. Well-thought of details like ruching, sweetheart neckline, tummy tucking and adjustable ties accentuate a curvy woman’s body and make her feel covered and glamorous. While the minimalist has the option of a conventional one-piece, the audacious can have fun with a sexy two-piece, like this retro-inspired leopard bikini.

Stay elegant and poised with J.Crew 2012 Swim Collection

When I heard about J.Crew’s swim collection, I wasn’t too excited. Surprisingly, the 2012 swim collection bowled me over. From minimalist style swimsuits to on-trend designs, J.Crew explores the fashion trends and catapults you to a world of elegance and grace. Mix and match from vintage polka dot separates or choose from summer-perfect stripes, J.Crew has plenty of options for you. The styles are classy yet glamorous without being over-the-top.

Be Ms. Versatile with Land’s End 4-piece Bikini

Let’s face it: sometimes we wish to bare it all, while some days we prefer coverage. To help today’s woman, Land’s End designed their new 4-piece bikini called SwimMates that are “coordinated swim layers that that lets you change your coverage in, out of and around the water.” It’s a wonderful revolution in the world of beachwear.

Choose a two-piece bikini, followed by a camisole and a skirt/short – all the layers are designed for you to swim in. They are water friendly and dry up fast. SwimMates gives you the flexibility of having the right look for the moment without changing your clothes. The fun part of a swimsuit is maintained with exciting prints and colors.

Be the showstopper in Gottex, Maaji and L* Space

For fashionistas looking to make a statement with designer fashion, check out the new 2012 swim collection by Gottex, Maaji and L* Space

Gottex, the iconic Israeli-brand swimwear allures you with its Spring 2012 collection. Featuring flattering silhouettes, exquisite details and mind-blowing ethnic prints, the high-end luxury brand offers some of the best styles for the coming season. While unexpected cutouts make the one-piece edgy, the two-pieces are kept fascinating with textural details and traditional prints. A glimpse of the collection can be seen in this Gottex tankini featuring a rich red color, ornate print and a web of knotted shoulder straps.

For a more playful vibe, ladies should check out the Maaji Underwater Conquest collection for 2012.The Columbian-brand’s new collection is inspired by the underwater and leads you the depths of ocean with its soft colors, playful silhouettes and cheerful prints. Maaji explores the world with printed sea horses, sharks, urchins, stingray and more. From sweet feminine ruffled tops to sexy bandeau styles, Maaji keeps the elusive quality alive in each of their piece.

For your summer getaway, try the new 2012 collection by L*Space. Designer Monica Wise (recognized as the 2010 Mercedes Benz Designer of the Year) brings you an eclectic collection inspired by the coast of Southern California. For the perfect toned body, the collection features an array of sexy bandeau bikinis in solids and prints. Although the focus is on simplicity, the wow factor of the cuts and the styles make the collection sizzle.

So, get ready to heat up the beach in the months to come. Take a cue from the above-mentioned collections to find a swimwear style that is distinctly you.

More from the contributor:
Five Ways to Style Your Tuxedo Jacket This Spring
Five Ways to Style Your Citron-Yellow Pencil Skirt This Spring/Summer
Four Ways to Wear Your Favorite Jeans in 2012