Buying Swimwear for Him — A Woman's Guide

Let's be honest. Left to his own devices, he'll pack the same faded board shorts from 2019 that hit below the knee and make him look like he's about to mow a lawn. You can do better for him. He just doesn't know it yet.

The Length Rule

Mid-thigh. Always mid-thigh. Above the knee is non-negotiable in 2026. Those knee-length surf shorts scream "I stopped caring about my appearance in 2008." A 5-7 inch inseam shows off the legs without crossing into Speedo territory (unless he's got the confidence for that — in which case, respect).

Fit Types

Tailored shorts: The best option for most men. A flat front, slight taper, and a proper waistband. Think Orlebar Brown — they literally invented the "shorts you can wear to lunch" category.

Classic trunks: Elastic waist, mesh liner, quick-dry fabric. Less formal but still stylish if the length is right and the print isn't embarrassing.

Swim briefs: For the man who trains, the European holiday, or the boyfriend who just doesn't care what anyone thinks. Honestly? Confidence makes anything work.

Colours That Work

Navy is the menswear black — it works on every skin tone and pairs with everything. Olive, terracotta, and deep burgundy are elevated neutrals. For prints, keep it subtle: tonal palms, geometric patterns, or a simple block stripe. Avoid anything that looks like a children's party invitation.

Where to Buy

Orlebar Brown — the gold standard. Tailored, minimal, beach-to-bar. £150-250 but they last years. Shop on Amazon

Vilebrequin — French Riviera energy. Playful prints that are still classy. The father-son matching sets are genuinely cute. Shop on Amazon

Frescobol Carioca — Brazilian minimalism. Beautiful tailoring and muted prints inspired by Rio. Shop on Amazon

Sunspel — understated British quality. Plain colours, perfect cut, no logos. For the man who hates logos.

The Matching Game

Coordinate without being cringe. If you're wearing a coral bikini, he can wear navy with a coral stripe. Matching prints are for influencer couples — subtle tonal coordination is for grown-ups who look good without trying.