What began with cult label Hunza G has sparked a ripple effect across the fashion world. Now, brands from the high street to high-end are embracing the crinkle, making it an instant summer holiday classic. It’s comfortable, it’s universally flattering and it’s quick to dry.
History of crinkle swimwear
The original creator of crinkle fashion, Hunza was founded in the 1980s and its popularity sky rocketed in the 90s after Julia Roberts wore an iconic mini dress by Hunza in Pretty Woman. The company then disappeared off the fashion scene until it was brought back to life by Georgina Huddart in 2015, when she relaunched the brand as Hunza G, focussing on crinkle-textured swimwear.
What is crinkle swimwear?
It’s the fabric that makes this type of swimwear so special. The material is like seersucker, giving its distinct look and feel. It’s textural with lots of stretch built into the fabric and makes swimwear look way more expensive than it is. High street brands have caught onto the trend, making it affordable and you’ll find plenty of different styles on offer.
Which bodytypes suit crinkle swimwear
The fabric, which often incorporates spandex, is designed to stretch and mould snugly to all body shapes, making swimwear comfortable to wear and size inclusive. It’s so good that you'll find that generally one size fits all, especially at Hunza G. Crinkle fabric can smooth and shape your body, especially around the tummy.
What level of support does crinkle swimwear give, especially for larger busts
Its curve giving fit offers a relative amount of support, but you need to make sure your bust gets adequate support. Some brands add underwired cups to help support a bigger bust and adjustable straps will help retain a secure fit.
How well does crinkle swimwear hold its shape
Crinkle fabric is made on a circular loom which creates a seamless tube from which the swimwear is crafted. This tight weave fabric, a blend of lycra and elastane, is known for its figure-hugging properties, as well as an exceptional ability to hold its shape. Hunza G’s crinkle swimwear is purportedly the best but of course, the price is higher.
Crinkle fabric is known for durability and is quick-drying, which is great news when you’re on holiday. Brands sometimes include an extra layer of UV protection into the fabric in their swimwear.
How to care for crinkle swimwear
As with all swimwear, it’s best to rinse off sea salt or chlorine as soon as you can. This helps retain the colour and extend the life of the garment as much as possible. You’ll find that some swimwear is chlorine resistant making it ideal for pool use. We recommend that you hand wash swimwear in a soft detergent and let it dry naturally, not in direct sunlight and flat. Don’t ever be tempted to wring out your swimwear.
How to wear crinkle swimwear
If you’re the cool girl on the beach, crinkle swimwear is very easy to accessorise and you’ll just need to throw over a kaftan or a sarong, add flip flops and a sun hat.
Store all your beach essentials in a straw beach bag, and you’re beach ready.
Don’t forget to apply a good SPF for full UV protection.
How to wear crinkle swimwear beyond the beach?
Crinkle swimwear is so versatile and given the level of support that it offers, you can literally wear it all day. It’s your go-to summer look. Style with a pair of denim shorts as you head out to supper, adding some fun earrings and necklace.
This summer’s crinkle swimwear styles
We’ve scoured the web and found plenty of styles worth diving into in time for your beach holiday.
