Swim Shorts Are the Retro Trend Elevating Our Poolside Looks

As summer has gotten underway, we’ve noticed several major swimwear trends emerging, both at Miami Swim Week and among fashion it-girls. Nostalgia, innovative styling, and practicality are all at the forefront of our poolside style this year, and swim shorts have made a grand return, combining all three. A relic from the early years of swimwear, this piece has often been a modesty choice; however, today’s versions come in countless statement iterations that make the case for its bold, comfortable versatility. Ahead, we explore the swim shorts trend then and now, complete with styling tips and several modern picks to shop.

What Are Swim Shorts?

Swim shorts are a type of swimwear bottom that provides fuller coverage, with a silhouette similar to your favorite pair of athletic, micro, or denim shorts. Like any other swimsuit, they are made from a durable fabric or blend (think: nylon) that dries quickly after a dip in the pool or ocean. Today, they’re available in all sorts of designs—from cheeky cuts to shorts with tummy control technology—ensuring you have plenty of options to try the piece, whether you want to cover up a bit more for your next beach day or are looking for a fresh statement.

The History of Swim Shorts

The history of women’s swimwear is a fascinating one. In the 1800s, swimsuits were called “bathing gowns,” as they were long, woolen dresses designed to float away from the body, ensuring that no curves were visible. In the 1920s, swim shorts entered the scene and were boundary-pushing but instantly popular.

By the time Louis Réard introduced the bikini—another then-controversial addition to the world of swimwear—in 1946, swim shorts became a quintessential silhouette, thanks to “Golden Age” screen sirens like Lauren Bacall, Marilyn Monroe, and Rita Hayworth. At the same time, brands like Speedo swapped wool and cotton for nylon in the late 1950s, giving us the tools for the fast-drying, body-hugging designs we wear today.

The Swim Shorts Trend in 2025

2025 swimwear trends are running the creative gamut, and swim shorts have a major place in the conversation. For example, the animal print revival—from the beloved leopard print to neutral snakeskin designs—has made its way to the beach and pool. You’ll also find fresh takes on classic black and white palettes making a splash this season, and those who enjoy bright colors may dive into jewel tones like burgundy, emerald, and cobalt this summer. With the vast assortment of aesthetics, finding what suits your summer mood should be quite breezy.

While swim shorts initially held a transitional place in history as poolside style standards became more flexible, today’s trend is all about embracing the style as an intentional choice. The additional coverage is worth considering if you’re looking for comfort and versatility. That being said, if you’re most excited about making a statement-worthy change to your water-friendly ensemble, the variety of cuts, patterns, and unexpected details (like belts) on offer today will bring the drama you crave.

Related Trends

Before swim shorts became an iconic silhouette in the 1940s and ’50s, swim skirts were the it-piece in the early 20th century. However, instead of a two-piece, modesty was still at the core, with a one-piece swimsuit with a skirted bottom being the optimal choice. Style icons like Audrey Hepburn were fans of this look, earning it a place in history as an it-girl staple.

Like everything in fashion, there has been an evolution, and today’s swim skirts are usually part of a playful bikini style. You’ll find them in tropical prints, effortless neutrals, and more, ensuring you have countless options for a swimsuit with a bit of extra security and flair.

How to Style Swim Shorts

Your swimwear options are robust, so you can style your pieces however you decide. For a warm-weather-ready look that won’t leave tan lines, pair some cheeky swim shorts with a bandeau top. Looking for extra coverage? Opt for swim capris—yes, this buzz-worthy pants trend has made its way to the pool. If you’ve seen Kim Kardashian on vacation lately, she’s worn the look a few times with a triangle bikini top.

For a practical look, pair boy short bottoms with a rash guard. Before you envision something boring, consider brands like J.Crew, which has designed a leopard print rash guard and high-waisted, full-coverage swim shorts. The options are nearly limitless, highlighting that you don’t have to sacrifice style for security. And no matter which swim shorts you try, your styling options increase exponentially when you bring cover-ups, sunglasses, and statement sandals into the mix.

The Best Swim Shorts to Shop

No matter your style or priorities, there’s a pair of swim shorts out there that will bring playfulness and practicality to your summer look. Ahead, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite options to try.