Many of this season's swimsuits are being sold alongside coordinating cover-ups. Overall, DeMonbrun says bright colors are popular this year. Karen Capone, Lycra swimwear marketing manager at DuPont, says plaids, animal prints, pastels, vivid blues and mossy greens are also hot. DuPont introduced Lycra into swimwear 20 years ago, and we couldn't be happier about it. Lycra gives us a smooth look and a good fit.
Many consumers consider it the foundation of a good swimsuit.
All swimsuits made this year with Lycra are chlorine-resistant, says Capone. Lycra has also introduced Lycra Soft into several swimwear lines, including Roxanne Signature, Jantzen Suits Me and Liz Claiborne Swimwear. The new fabric is slightly shaping without being constricting. Derrick Turman, assistant manager for Pacific Sunwear in Knoxville, says long board shorts in Hawaiian prints and florals are hot for guys this season. Board shorts have a flat waistband with a tie-front.