Best women's long sleeve swimwear for summer 2024
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If over the last few years, it feels as if swimwear has got more itsy-bitsy with every passing summer, well, that’s because it has.
Thong bikinis à la Love Island, sultry cut-outs and barely-there bandeaus flood our social media feeds, modelled by celebrities and influencers who are unafraid to show some skin.
However, we are starting to witness subtle push-back against said styles. Noughties-inspired tankinis are on the up, as are blouson swimsuit silhouettes and billowing sarongs. Leading the wave of more modest swimwear is the long-sleeved swimming costume - a piece designed for women wanting to cover up while channelling surf chic.
Whether a long-sleeve swimsuit appeals because of personal preference, faith or skin health reasons, there’s never been a better time to get ahead of the trend curve. We’re only just starting to see ripples of interest in shielding swimsuit silhouettes. Brands such as Free People, Whistles and Boden are leading the charge, stocking long-sleeved pieces boasting brilliant colours and prints. Who said demure equalled dull?
If tanning isn’t on your agenda, then long-sleeved swimwear should be. Elle MacPherson, Nicole Kidman, Beyonce, Kim Kardashian and Cameron Diaz are just a handful of women who have long-sleeved swimsuits in their arsenal, proving that the design has made an impact already.
With greater awareness of the damaging effect of UV rays, the onus is shifting away from sun-soaking and moving towards shade-bathing. Sleeve-baring swimwear is fashion and function rolled into one, providing protection as well as dynamism for water sports. Not to mention, the sleeved designs are really quite cute with a surfer girl aesthetic.
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Without further ado, your new swimsuit awaits. Hone your Sporty Spice meets swim-chic aesthetic with a modest yet contemporary one-piece to provide comfort and confidence on the beach.
Shop now
Whistles Long Sleeve Texture Swimsuit
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Feel at ease on the beach wearing Whistles’ long-sleeved swimsuit with a textured, teal finish. Ideal for days spent lounging or snorkelling, the more covered-up one-piece features a highly flattering fit and zip detailing.
Melissa Odabash Ocean Sports Swimsuit
Embrace your inner Bond Girl in Melissa Odabash. A favourite among celebrities like Amanda Holden, the chic label stocks an array of long-sleeve pieces like this sleek black garment for beachside bonanzas.
La DoubleJ Iconic Floral-Print Surf Suit
Surf suits are a brilliant option for those seeking a touch more modesty on the beach. Slip into Double J’s floral-clad number and radiate summer energy. Fern green, blossom pink and honey yellow hues make for a romantic gardenscape design to wear with confidence.
Marysia Scalloped Edge Long-Sleeve Swimsuit
Watskin Lola Bodysuit
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Watskin’s Lola Bodysuit stands out from the crowd as a result of its unique hooded detailing. Keep the sun off your face with the handy feature, which is complemented by a dark green and neon yellow colour scheme, long sleeves and fabric with ultraviolet protection. A win for your skin.
Boden Piped Raglan Sleeve Swimsuit
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Indulge in some vibrant colour-blocking thanks to Boden. The British brand’s swimsuit comes in five varying colourways and designs to pick from. Enjoy ample coverage from the long sleeves, zip-up detailing and padded cups that provide support where needed.
Jil Sander Long Sleeve Swimsuit
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Fashion followers, this is your time to shine. Exercise your style vocabulary with a Jil Sander one-piece, available in a crisp white hue with the brand’s iconic text insignia. For those who want to steer away from beachy botanical prints.
Acacia Ehukai Piped Surf Bodysuit
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Agua Bendita Mei One-Piece Surf Suit
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Modest yet adventurous, Agua’s Bendita surf suit is for the bold beach dresser. A tattoo-like print spanning text to eclectic illustrations makes for a unique add-to-bag moment, while a high neckline, long sleeves and cheeky cut accentuate the form to perfection.
Roxy Long Sleeve One-Piece Swimsuit
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Swim, surf and shade-bathe in Roxy’s All About Sol one-piece. Sixties-inspired, mod-like florals pepper the item, which features short sleeves and a playsuit structure. A tie-back closure promises the perfect fit, while the sunny design offers a playful number for active wearers.
Duskii Floral-Print Zip-Up Swimsuit
Whistles Suncheck Long Sleeve Swimsuit
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Checkerboard has proven to be a Gen-Z favourite, so Whistles’ checked swimsuit is a surefire hit. Available in lime and forest green pigments, the jazzy number showcases a half-zip design that you can easily slip on and off when kicking back beachside.
Seea Swamis Playsuit
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Opt for a playsuit silhouette for maximum coverage. Seea’s swim-appropriate number is double-lined for extra coverage and opacity, in addition to featuring ultraviolet protection to help block harmful UV rays. Wear yours year-in, year-out without the risk of the piece losing its stretch.