The miles of white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters around Grand Cayman entice residents and visitors alike into making any day a beach day – Cayman’s version of it being "5 o'clock somewhere."
The definition of a beach day varies. It could mean a quick dip or swim in the water, sunbathing on the sand, a breezy boat ride along the coast or casual dining on the shore. No matter your preference, there are a variety of beachwear trends to keep on top of this summer as they prove the fashion world is ready to take an overdue tropical vacation.
SWIMSUIT STYLES
The monokini is not a new style, but it's made a prominent comeback. The design mimics a bikini, comprised of two connected and inseparable pieces. This style can accentuate or give the illusion of curves.
Forget about simplicity; this season, excessive strings or attached belts around the waist are popular features on swimsuits. They serve as a built-in accessory, elevating the swimsuit's design. This trend is for any body type.
Another reoccurring theme is a desire to bare skin. This includes swimwear designs that make their statement with cutouts. On the plus side, you give your body more access to the sun while looking fabulous. On the other hand, you will get some interesting, and possibly unwanted, tan lines.
THE 2-FOR-1 OUTFIT
The chances of your going for a water excursion before, after or during a social outing significantly increase during summertime. Fear not, for you can use a swimsuit as the base of an outfit, then layer up.
With the right styles, your swimsuit can be disguised, resembling a cropped blouse, bralette or bodysuit. Build your outfit by incorporating elements such as a sheer flowy dress, oversized button-down blouse, high-waisted trousers or a wrap skirt.
BLOCK THE SUN
No beach look is truly complete without your practical protective gear.
Bucket hats have re-entered the beachwear scene, expanding its long-standing association with streetwear. The brim may be small, but a bucket hat is sure to keep some sun rays off your head, face and neck.
Sunglasses are a given, but a specific style has been resurrected from more than 20 years from the past: the "shield shades." As the name would suggest, you'll get maximum coverage with these sunglasses, while reminiscing on your favourite Y2K celebrities — some of whom gave us the best summer tunes we still listen to today.
Find these trends and more at Camana Bay's retail shops, including Ame, Forever Summer, Sand Angels, Red's Emporium, Flagship by Vertu, NKY and De Sunglass Man.
This article was originally published in the May/June 2022 print edition of Camana Bay Times.