Swimsuits for women 2020: your beach outfit sorted!

Do you know the history of the women’s swimsuit? Want to see this year’s standout styles? Which are the best places to buy? Here’s the rundown!

History of the women’s swimsuit

An essential item in the wardrobe of a woman living in Mérida is the swimsuit.

The weather in Yucatán, with temperatures above 30°C and plenty of beaches nearby, is an invitation to enjoy the water and the sun all year round. But what has the history of this piece of design been?

From full dresses to tiny bikinis, the history of the women’s swimsuit has kept evolving over time.

It didn’t appear until the 19th century, since before that women mostly bathed naked.

Improvements to railway systems and other transport methods in the 19th century popularised the idea of swimming and going to the beach, which began to be seen as a recreational activity.

Olympic sport

Over the centuries, swimming became an Olympic sport. From that point, the women’s swimsuit took on a function. As the sport grew, swimsuits became more aerodynamic and less heavy, paving the way for the styles to come.

By 1910, the women’s swimsuit was less restrictive and heavy. Women bared their arms, hemlines slid up to mid-thigh, and designers used less fabric to conceal a girl’s figure. As the 1920s approached they got smaller and demand for them grew. Hollywood and Vogue popularised the idea that swimsuits were sexy and glamorous, a trend that would persist for decades to come.

We recommend reading: The 9 most beautiful beaches near Mérida.

The rise of the bikini

While two-piece suits were common in the years before the Second World War, they generally covered a woman’s navel and left only a little midriff visible. In 1946, French designer Louis Réard introduced the world to the first modern bikini, which featured far less fabric than its predecessors.

Its name has roots in the war: Réard was inspired to name his two-piece after a newsworthy US atomic test at Bikini Atoll. The new women’s swimsuit design was so daring that the designer had to hire Micheline Bernardini, a Parisian showgirl, to model it.

Outfit sorted! The perks of living near the sea…

Living near the sea means having a section of your wardrobe set aside for a weekend at the beach. For most people that includes having at least two or three swimsuits and outfits to show off in Yucatán’s tropical climate.

The pleasant climate in Mérida, Yucatán, and the fabulous beaches nearby are a source of inspiration for many entrepreneurs betting on textile design.

As we mentioned, the climate in Mérida, Yucatán, has an average temperature of 30°C, while the weather in Yucatán and at its beaches near the city sits at 33°C. With that data, it’s more than clear that swimsuit sales in these areas are plentiful.

In fact, lately many local designers are betting on the perks of Mérida’s climate and its tropical temperature to create original swimsuit designs. Some entrepreneurs are Fernanda Arjona, Andrés Gasque and Sofía Palermo.

With long track records, they’ve all taken part in New York Fashion Week and Canada Fashion Week, and this summer their latest designs are sure to be a must on Mexican beaches.

Types of swimsuit for this 2020 season

The advantages of the Yucatecan coast aren’t limited to being close to the capital (just thirty minutes). There you can also enjoy endless options both in swimsuit fashion design and in activities on beautiful beaches where white sand and boat rides over crystal-clear water are part of the scenery.

Tie dye

This style is a youthful classic, tied at the sides of the hip, the back and the neck. The colours with the biggest presence in 2020 are faded pastels or neon brights. A tie dye piece would look amazing for your weekend in Telchac.

Full swimsuit

The classic among women’s swimsuits. This season there are plenty of options to show off a full swimsuit without setting aside style and sensuality. In the main shopping plazas you’ll find models to flatter your personality and body type. Pay close attention this year to printed designs — they’ll be a must in a beach outfit.

Sporty bikini

The sporty bikini combines the sexy design of the bikini with a comfortable cut that adapts to the body. Forget adjusting your swimsuit every second. The sporty bikini is a favourite among young people, but we think it’s perfect for any age. A sporty bikini would be a perfect match for a getaway around the Yucatán peninsula.

Where to buy swimsuits in Mérida?

Whether to enjoy the beaches of Yucatán or head to the pool, make the most of spring and summer to drop by these shops:

Bari Swimwear Altabrisa Mérida

If you’ve been in Yucatán a while, you probably know this shop. Located in Plaza Altabrisa, it’s a great option.

Address: Plaza Altabrisa, Calle 7.

OlaLaBikini

This online shop has a wide catalogue and a range of sizes. Perfect if you want to save time and shop online.

Azul Turquesa swimwear

Find a wide variety of designs and vivid colours that suit a cheerful style with tropical prints.

Address: Calle 1H 192, Residencial Col. México Norte

Enjoy the climate in Mérida, Yucatán, and its temperature! Dress in style with these original swimsuits for 2020! If you don’t have much time to travel, remember that Puerto Progreso is always an option for anyone looking for beaches near Mérida.