What’s decidedly vintage, as comfortable as can be, and surprisingly stylish (if you look hard enough)? The answer is, of course, those high-waisted numbers that are Mom Jeans. Still tinged with their not-so-stylish reputation from decades past (for reasons beyond me!), Mom Jeans are often a point of contention in the fashion world. Outside of the fashion set, many shoppers still peg Mom Jeans as a piece that—as the name suggests—is exclusively worn by mothers who just can’t be bothered. But alas, the 80’s and 90’s are a distant memory, and while the era still has its hold over us (sartorially speaking), the dated takes of what we now affectionately call Mom Jeans are quickly becoming a thing of the past.
Over the years, we’ve seen numerous translations of the Mom Jean enter our realm of vision. Equal parts stylish and comfortable, this high-waisted, easy-fitting silhouette works wonders in elongating one’s figure and in accentuating one’s best assets. Today, shoppers are delighted to find versions that range from the light washed and distressed, to the lived-in All-Americana blue, to the streamlined dark and stormy wash (and beyond). But where to look, you may ask, to achieve that look that speaks to both vintage charm and contemporary cool? Your search is over, for the below roundup is all you need to channel that throwback off-duty vibe, wherever you may be.
Riley High-Rise Straight Crop in Zephr by AGOLDE ($198)
The thick of summer. The days are long, the hemlines are impressively short, and the soaring temps have us jumping at any opportunity to just cool off. There’s nothing quite like the hot season, nor the barely-there uniforms many of us so often live in whenever the weekend rolls around. That’s right, swimsuit season is also in full swing and we’re soaking up every last minute of it.
Danielle Bernstein of @WeWoreWhat in Onia x WeWoreWhat May 2019 Collection
And the iterations are endless. From whimsical prints, to punchy patterns, delightfully sunny hues to decidedly muted ones, and cool cuts that compete with funky ties and knots—the choices are beyond our wildest dreams. Just spend mere minutes on Instagram and you’ll have all the confirmation you need on the current swim frenzy, and its unwavering hold on all of us. But we’re not complaining (except, maybe on behalf of our wallets), because let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a fabulous new swimsuit?
Which leaves us begging the question: which brands out there are really worth our hard-earned dollars? Let’s face it, swimwear does not come cheap. Well you’re in luck, because I’ve rounded up 6 labels to know that hold up across the board (I’m talking quality, style and comfort!)—so you can worry less about ‘fits losing shape and more about nailing that next Instagram shot. Ahead, the swimwear brands currently trending (and soon to be raiding your bikini drawer, we hope!) near and far. So go right ahead, sink right in.
1. Onia x WeWoreWhat
Launched this past May by global influencer Danielle Bernstein of @WeWoreWhat, the fourth collection from Onia x WeWoreWhat is everything a fashion girl could ask for. Inspired by Bernstein’s love of the Italian coast, the over 50 pieces that comprise the collection is a modern nod to old-world European glamour. You’ll notice timeless design elements such as cabana stripes and balconette tops effortlessly mingle with of-the-moment trends, such as the season’s puff-sleeve silhouette and citrus yellow takeover. What’s more, in classic WeWoreWhat style, Danielle does not fail to punctuate the collection with a bit of fan inspiration, rounding it out with distinctive pieces (like fuller bottoms) that draw directly from the suggestions of Bernstein’s fanbase itself.
Prepare to address dozens of inquiring passerbys when you don this Colombian label on your next beach trip. The ultimate where-did-you-get-that brand, Agua by Agua Bendita uses local artisans to craft hand-made, bohemian swim that you’ll want to live in all summer long. A standout in more ways than one, the brand’s full range apparel line is worth checking out, too.
A favorite of It-girls and all those in the know, Faithfull the Brand has reached new heights with the launch of their new swimwear collection this year. In keeping with their romantic aesthetic, delicate details, whimsy patterns, and clean lines ground this line, and uphold the brand’s reputation of effortlessly translating from beach, to drinks, to dinner at sunset.
Balancing barely-there swim with a sense of tastefulness is a delicate act. Juillet does just that. With its feminine cuts and flirty colorways, the brand’s collection of swim appeals to that contemporary gal who’s laid-back, yet never compromises on quality. You can almost ensure a second glance with this one.
The brainchild of Australia’s most influential blogger duo, Tash Oakley and Devin Brugman, Monday Swimwear is perhaps the greatest force to be reckoned with in the world of swimwear. All those who subscribe to Instagram trend monitoring can’t go a day without seeing a new blogger or celebrity bedecked in the line. Its versatile offering of designs go from streamlined and minimal, to daring and statement-worthy—so there’s truly something for everyone.
An enduring summertime staple, Solid & Striped is one of those brands that rarely lets us down. This year, the brand unveiled a new partnership with RE/DONE for a series of vintage-inspired collections that speak to the energy of notable destinations like Montauk and Nantucket back in the day. As always, classic silhouettes dominate the new offerings, but we see new cuts and features integrated here for a fresh take.
What’s decidedly vintage, as comfortable as can be, and surprisingly stylish (if you look hard enough)? The answer is, of course, those high-waisted numbers that are Mom Jeans. Still tinged with their not-so-stylish reputation from decades past (for reasons beyond me!), Mom Jeans are often a point of contention in the fashion world. Outside of the fashion set, many shoppers still peg Mom Jeans as a piece that—as the name suggests—is exclusively worn by mothers who just can’t be bothered. But alas, the 80’s and 90’s are a distant memory, and while the era still has its hold over us (sartorially speaking), the dated takes of what we now affectionately call Mom Jeans are quickly becoming a thing of the past.
Over the years, we’ve seen numerous translations of the Mom Jean enter our realm of vision. Equal parts stylish and comfortable, this high-waisted, easy-fitting silhouette works wonders in elongating one’s figure and in accentuating one’s best assets. Today, shoppers are delighted to find versions that range from the light washed and distressed, to the lived-in All-Americana blue, to the streamlined dark and stormy wash (and beyond). But where to look, you may ask, to achieve that look that speaks to both vintage charm and contemporary cool? Your search is over, for the below roundup is all you need to channel that throwback off-duty vibe, wherever you may be.