The bra is no longer something to conceal. Visible, confident and unapologetic, it has become one of the standout pieces of recent seasons. Whether peeking subtly from beneath a top, as seen at Lila Villeneuve, printed directly onto a T-shirt at Vaquera, or worn as a top at The Attico, lingerie has stepped firmly into the public sphere. More than a passing trend, it reflects an assertive femininity that refuses to hide. A statement as much as a style choice. So, with summer just around the corner, what if we applied the same philosophy to the classic bikini?
From Beach to Street: The Swimsuit as a Statement
As we leave the beach behind, swimwear naturally breaks free from the sand and takes to the streets, turning into an outfit. While a sarong can be casually tied over a micro bikini, the idea is above all to let it deliberately peek through summer looks. For the boldest dressers, sheer layers are the way to go. Bonus points if the swimsuit comes in neon hues or metallic finishes.
While the “swimwear-meets-citywear” look has long been a summer staple, the party scene is taking the trend even further. Festivals and rave events provide the perfect playground, where boundaries blur and traditional dress codes are thrown out the window. It’s the ideal opportunity to pair the comfort of ultra-baggy shorts with the sensuality of a delicate triangle bikini top. An added bonus? Soaking up the sun on a terrace or in front of a sound system without ending up with awkward cyclist-style tan lines.
And since the bra has paved the way for unexpected layering, the swimsuit is now making its way to the top layer too: it is worn over a top. This is precisely the inspiration behind the Parisian label Serica, a provenance that goes beyond a simple marketing claim, as all pieces are handcrafted in a workshop in the city’s 20th arrondissement. The brand reinvents the classic white cotton sleeveless top by layering a matching bikini top over it, complete with a piercing-inspired jewelry detail. A combination that evokes the spirit of summer while quietly turning the codes of the traditional wardrobe on their head.
Two Emerging Brands to Watch This Summer
To embrace the trend without putting a foot wrong, here’s a closer look at two rising brands redefining swimwear, whether on the sand or on the streets:
- Serica : The ideal label for those who want to embrace the trend but are still hesitant about the styling. Its pre-assembled 2-in-1 top offers an easy introduction. As a bonus, you’ll be supporting a good cause: Serica is an emerging Parisian eco-conscious brand that creates its collections through upcycling, using leftover fabric scraps.
- Cornelia Swimwear : Founded by content creator Chiara, this label draws inspiration from both the shores of Biarritz and the exotic spirit of Bali, while maintaining an unmistakably Parisian identity. We’re particularly taken with its latest collection and its more full-coverage bralette styles. It can be easily worn under a wide-open men’s shirt or paired with a skirt and pointed pumps for an elegant evening look.
The Bikini in the City: The Ultimate Symbol of Empowerment?
History is simply repeating itself. By challenging convention, the bikini is reconnecting with its disruptive origins. First introduced in 1946, the two-piece was immediately deemed too scandalous and was banned from most European beaches. It was not until the 1950s and thanks to the audacity of Brigitte Bardot, that it gained popularity, challenged social norms, and ultimately became a permanent fixture of mainstream culture.
Today, the bikini comes in countless colors and silhouettes on beaches around the world without raising an eyebrow. Yet it remains largely confined to the coastline, bound by an invisible boundary. By making its way into the heart of the city, between café terraces and metro stations, swimwear has slowly turned into a small revolution. Proof that four pieces of fabric still have the power to challenge convention.
