It’s that time of the year when the hot summer heat draws us towards glistening waves, and the inviting sounds of splashing water. Whether it’s a tropical vacation or a refreshing dip in the local pool, having the perfect bathing suit is essential. However, finding the right swimsuit can be as tricky as trying sushi for the first time. From mastering the art of holding chopsticks correctly to establishing the precise proportions of condiments, it’s all about the dexterous art of balance. Similarly, the quest for the “right swimsuit” involves striking a balance between various contributing factors: size and fit, quality of materials, type and shape, price, sentiment, and purpose. To simplify the search, we have identified nine Indian swimwear brands that are thriving in the heat.
Woman Like U: Celebrates swimwear with a diverse range of swimwear, including bikinis, tankinis, and monokinis in floral prints, tie-dyes, and bright colours. The brand prioritises inclusivity, catering to every size with an extensive collection from petite to plus sizes. Founder Shrijal Dave provides information to customers about different body types through a body type calculator provided on the website.
Nadi Nadi: Inspired by the fluidity of water, Nadi Nadi is a Delhi-based swimwear and resort brand known for its focus on fit and fabric. The founders, Bhavya and Rishi, extend their expertise from their eclectic jewellery brand, Hannan, and work closely with handicraft artisans and innovative materials. Their collection features sleek silhouettes and laid-back solid colours. Nadi Nadi utilises various materials like polyamide, conventional and recycled polyester, and even lurex in their swimwear.
Guapa Resortwear: Created by an Economics major Reby Kumar, Guapa Resortwear embodies colour, fun, and boho style. Their collection includes bikinis and monokinis made with Econyl, a fabric derived from ocean and landfill waste. With plunging necklines, versatile straps, reversible styling, and low-cut coverage, Guapa ensures a comfortable and confident fit. The brand also tailors their collection to custom measurements, offering a diverse range of options. Guapa advocates for the #WhoMadeMyClothes movement, aiming to be India’s unique brand manufacturing sustainable, reversible, and zero-waste swimwear.
Coco Palm Swimwear: Coco Palm is a conscious luxury brand that produces a wide-ranging collection of men’s and women’s swimwear using high quality recycled fabrics made from ocean plastic waste. Inspired by the ocean, their tankinis, bikinis, and swimsuits are free-spirited with lush prints, modest styling, and vibrant colours.
Izsi India: Founded by two fashion friends, Vezotolu Vadeo & Shilpi Mishra, the newly incepted brand in Delhi champions slow fashion and inclusivity. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted by local artisans, showcasing esoteric prints, imaginative colours and designs. With a focus on water resistance, and shape retention, their swimwear guarantees exceptional and longevity. Offering an extensive size range from XS to 5XL, Izsi promotes body positivity in its truest sense. Additionally, Izsi has taken steps towards sustainability with the introduction of compostable packaging.
Papaaya Swimwear: Launched in 2021 by Maria Shroff, Papaaya offers a diverse selection of one-pieces, bikinis, shorts, and shirts in vibrant solids and earthy stripes. Their designs are characterised by seamless lines and elevated aesthetics, catering to a variety of wearable styles, fits, and patterns. From trendy cut-outs to stylist bandeaus and asymmetrical necklines, Papaaya Swimwear ensures a wide range of options. The brand, based in Mumbai, provides competitive pricing and demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of different sizes and body types.
Maarteeni: Tania Abrol founded Maarteeni, a Chandigarh-based brand, in 2021 with a strong focus on sustainability and slow fashion. Their collection of bikinis and monokinis encompass lively colours and incorporates fun embellishments such as dramatic ruffles and frills, prioritising luxurious feel and high-quality swim designs. Locally made, size-inclusive, and packaged sustainably, Maarteeni has earned a fast following among women of all shapes and sizes.
Sazo: Launched by Saoni Daini & Priya Suvarna, Sazo stands out with its bold, bizarre, and blithe swimwear collection. Their designs feature chaotic and cartoonish digital prints on clean patterns and smooth silhouettes. Sazo offers regular, plus, and customisation options for sizing, ensuring a perfect fit for every individual. Made-to-order products add an exclusive touch, making their swimwear truly enjoyable for vacation-goers seeking eccentric styles.
Tizzi: Founded by Shekha Berry, Tizzi is a holistic swimwear brand that caters to every need of the wearer. Known for its functionality, the brand uses sustainable materials that offer sun protection and chlorine resistance. Tizzi takes prides in its premium tropical prints and bold silhouettes with cutouts that set them apart. They provide a wide range of sizes from XS to 3XL, and customisation options for the perfect fit. The brand truly brings together comfort, fit, design, fabric quality, and sustainability.