Making a splash in style

Somalian American model Halima Aden's debut pose in a hijab and burkini for Sports Illustrated swimsuit cover made history. Let’s see How Burkinis and skirtinis are trending this Summer.

With brands getting more inclusive about all kinds of body type, skin tones and ethnicity, perhaps, this could be one of the most revered eras in fashion. Recently, model Halima Aden announced her debut on Sports Illustrated swimsuit cover and made history by posing in a hijab and burkini for the magazine. The Somali-American model was in the news for her graceful appearance on the cover of the popular magazine, which is particularly infamous for its scintillating photo shoots with celebrities. While the Internet couldn’t get enough of the refugee model gracing the cover in a hijab and swimwear, maybe the world is finally ready to embrace and appreciate all kinds of trends in the swimsuit segment. We spoke to swimwear experts to explore what are the options this season for Indian women, who do not want to miss out on the aquatic adventures and yet be comfortable in  water.

In Indian market, fashion brands are experimenting with bolder cuts, patterns and interesting embellishments as customers expect something different from what they would regularly find. Designer Deviana Gupta of the swimwear label Saltskin, says, “We focus on innovation, in our first and second collection we designed reversible swimsuits and used fabrics like the printed mesh. And, in our latest collection, we designed seamless swimsuits with hand-woven knots. In India and globally one-pieces and monokini’s are popular at the moment with interesting cutouts. Keeping this on the mind the latest trend, we have a line of reversible tie and dye monokini’s and playful one pieces in bold India inspired prints, Indigo mosaic, and gold paisleys prints for the global customers.”

While, burkinis that cover women from top to toe are a rage in Islamic nations, in Indian context it is replaced by skirtinis. Delhi-based designer Niyati Monga of Kinaraa Swimwear, mentions, “Indian women prefer skirtinis and swimsuits with shorts. To cater to the older age group of ladies, we do many styles that cover the curves in comfortable silhouettes. Skirtinis in geometrical prints and solid colours are quite popular in the market this season. For the more experimental customers, we have skirtinis with a hint of the net to create the look of deeper necklines. While black is an evergreen colour, however, let’s not be boring and add in a slight touch of colour to keep it stylish. Personally, I like to style a black swimsuit with any bright coloured bag and hat – a timeless and tested look that never goes out of fashion.”

While selecting your swimwear, comfort has to be the keyword and accordingly any outfit can be worn with a smile. Harshad Daswani, founder of the Beach Company, highlights, “Our prints for resort wear are inspired by Indian history, such as temple wall art and window jaali designs. With a focus on flowing georgettes, our must-have is the longer beach maxi-dress which can be worn not just to the pool, but straight to dinner too. And in the swimwear department, high waisted bikini bottoms and mesh-insert swimwear designs are definitely the best sellers.”

For a well-travelled customer, not only a right swimwear but also the accessories with it makes a huge difference. Celebrity stylist Nidhi Sharma, remarks, “I think the best way to sport a swimsuit is picking wisely according to your body type and wear it with confidence. Style your swimsuits with capes, see-through dresses, and kaftans on a nice beach holiday. Don’t forget to pack the essential accessories like an eco-friendly straw hat, a beach bag, sunglasses, long earrings, a statement neck piece, and some cool flip flops. And, don’t wear to lather layers of sun protection before you enter the water to keep skin issues at bay.”