3 Coveted Swimwear Brands Share the Secret to Finding the Perfect Suit

Nothing is more exciting to an East Coaster than the hints of warm weather after a long winter. No matter where you live, summer is about getting outside, reconnecting to nature, and spending some much-needed time in the sun. Swim season [1] is officially here, and if you don't shop early [2], all the best ones are sold out by June.

We want to purchase suits now that are well-constructed [3], comfortable [4], and on trend [5]. What better way to get advice on creating the ultimate swim wardrobe than straight from the designers themselves? We spoke to Norma Kamali; Brittany Kozerski, founder of Jade swim [6]; and Oleema and Kalani, cofounders of Mikoh, and wow, did we get some solid advice. Scroll through, and never shop for a swimsuit the same way again.

MIKOH Co-Founders (and Sisters!) Oleema and Kalani Miller

POPSUGAR: Which swimsuit style (or specific swimsuit) will never go out of style and why?
Oleema Miller: A simple black triangle top and a modest coverage bottom will forever be timeless. Our Catalina [8] triangle top is perfection - the adjustable straps, ability to tie over your shoulder or around your neck, the slightly ruched fabric at the top for adjustability of coverage, and the sleek cut make this triangle silhouette the epitome of a forever classic.

PS: What's a common mistake women make when buying swimwear?
Kalani Miller: A lot of the time, customers purchase suits that are not the correct size. They may think that they want the more full coverage bottom, so they may size up and this creates a baggy bottom. This is the worst! Having a suit in the correct size is the most important. Make sure you keep an open mind, try on multiple sizes to find the best fitting suit, and have a little fun with it! Try on new styles and a crazy colour! It's fun to express yourself and your style with swimwear.

PS: What tips do you have for fit and swimsuit try-ons in general?
OM: When trying on swim, confidence is key. The saying "how you feel is how you're going to look" is so true; you must go in with confidence and a strong sense of self. However, good lighting, a light kiss from the sun, and a visualization of how and where you're going to wear your swimsuit definitely helps.

Mikoh Antibes One Piece

Mikoh Antibes One Piece [9] ($228)

Mikoh Catalina Top and Valencia Bottom

Mikoh Catalina Top [10] ($118) and Valencia 2 Bottom [11] ($118)

Mikoh Eden Top and Lona Bottom

Mikoh Eden Top [12] ($140) and Lona Bottom [13] ($140)

Mikoh Kano Top & Ofu Bottom

Mikoh Kano Top [14] ($140) and Ofu Bottom [15] ($140)

Mikoh Portugal 2 One Piece

Mikoh Portugal 2 One Piece [16] ($228)

Mikoh Mila 2 One Piece

Mikoh Mila 2 One Piece [17] ($239)

Norma Kamali, Founder of Norma Kamali

PS: Which swimsuit style (or specific swimsuit) will never go out of style and why?
Norma Kamali: The Bill has been in my collection since 1970. It is typical of classic, late '30s glam swimwear.

PS: Are you more focussed on trends or classics when it comes to silhouettes?
NK: I design swim more like art on the body with a 360-degree sculptural view.

PS: What swim fabrics are most flattering and long-lasting?
NK: Many fabrics are quite adequate, but it is mostly how you care for the swimsuit that keeps the fit and the quality long-lasting. Perspiration, sun tan oil, and chlorine needs to be washed out after each wearing.

PS: How long have you kept YOUR best swimsuits in rotation for, and what are they?
NK: Swimwear is timeless and I have many suits that were designed 50, 40, and 30 years ago, but you could never tell.

Brittany Kozerski, Founder and Designer of JADE Swim

PS: What swim fabrics are most flattering and long-lasting?
Brittany Kozerski: Suits that sculpt to the body and feature four-way stretch are the most flattering. We line the inside of all of our suits with the same high quality fabric as on the outside to ensure a better fit and more longevity.

PS: What tips do you have for fit and swimsuit try-ons in general?
BK: A great test while trying on a new swimsuit is to sit and bend over. Be sure the suit fits for all movements you may do while wearing the suit to ensure you will truly be comfortable in it all day long.

PS: What's a common mistake women make when buying swimwear?
BK: A common mistake is not investing in swimwear made with high quality fabric. When buying a new swimsuit it's important to pay attention to what the suits are made of and how they're constructed.

PS: What's your favourite suit from your current collection and why?
BK: The Sena One Piece is my favourite new style and has sold so well to retailers. I was inspired by a vintage '70s dress I've had on my mood board for years that I wanted to convert into a swimsuit. A lot of customers are buying this piece as swimwear but also as a bodysuit to wear beyond the beach.