Look for Vibrant Prints and Tailored Fits

If you love Vilebrequin's iconic bold prints and classic tailored silhouettes but not the price tag, you can achieve the same look with brands like Faherty, Tommy Bahama, and Orlebar Brown's secondary lines. Vilebrequin is known for its playful patterns - think sea turtles, coral reefs, and abstract geometrics in saturated colors. To replicate that vibe, look for swim trunks with all-over prints in tropical themes, nautical motifs, or abstract designs. Faherty's "Volcanicâ" print in coral and navy or Tommy Bahama's "IslandZoneâ" in palm frond patterns are excellent substitutes. Stick to a tailored fit: swim trunks should hit 2 to 3 inches above the knee, with a flat front and no more than a 7-inch inseam (6-inch is ideal for a modern preppy look). Avoid baggy cuts or overly long lengths, which kill the Vilebrequin aesthetic.

Choose Preppy Color Palettes

Vilebrequin's color stories are clean and preppy: navy paired with white or red, mint green with coral, and sunny yellow with light blue. When selecting alternatives, prioritize these classic combinations. For instance, a pair of navy trunks with small white polka dots or a red and navy striped pair channels the same energy. Brands like Patagonia offer stands out? Your starting point is the color palette - think mint and coral or navy and white for maximum Vilebrequin flavor. Also, consider palette is key - think mint and coral or navy and white for maximum effect. | Actually, for a more streamlined version: Faherty's Echo print in navy/white or Tommy Bahama's Reef Runner in seafoam/teal are spot-on. Avoid neon or desaturated tones; Vilebrequin favors crisp, clean hues.

Focus on Fabric and Construction

Vilebrequin uses quick-dry microfiber and recycled fabrics with a soft, matte finish. When shopping for affordable alternatives, look for 100% polyester or recycled polyester blends with a soft hand feel and a bit of stretch. Avoid shiny nylon, which looks athletic rather than resort-chic. Check the lining - it should be mesh brief (not boxer) for quick drying and support. Faherty uses a similar interior brief and recycled fabric in their swim collection. Also, examine the waistband: Vilebrequin uses a flat, non-elastic waistband with interior drawstring for a clean look. Brands like Bonobos (their printed swim trunks) employ the same construction. Lastly, look for functional details like a back zipper pocket - a hallmark of Vilebrequin's design that adds utility.

Style Them Like a Pro

To complete the Vilebrequin-inspired outfit, pair your swim trunks with a crisp white linen button-down (unbuttoned over a solid tee) and leather sandals or woven espadrilles. For the beach, a classic white crewneck t-shirt and a pair of retro sunglasses (like wayfarers or round metal frames) keep the look polished. Avoid athletic flip-flops or cargo shorts. Instead, opt for a cotton-linen sport coat over a polo for a dinner look. The key is contrast: let your printed trunks be the statement piece while everything else remains neutral and tailored. Roll the waistband once if needed to hit the right length, and always choose a belt that matches your shoes (or skip it if the waistband is clean).

Where to Shop

Check out these brands for Vilebrequin-level style at a lower cost:

  • Faherty: Their "Volcanicâ" and "Echoâ" prints are direct matches.
  • Tommy Bahama: Look for their "Reef Runnerâ" and "Sierraâ" prints in preppy colors.
  • Patagonia: Their "Wavefarerâ" trunks offer a more subdued but equally clean aesthetic.
  • J.Crew: Classics like striped or gingham suits this category.
  • Orlebar Brown: Their secondary line (OB) sometimes has sales on similar tailored silhouettes.
  • Bonobos: Their printed swim collection often includes bold patterns with modern fit.

Mix and match to find your perfect blend of print, fit, and fabric without exceeding your budget.

Key Takeaway

Choose swim trunks with all-over prints in preppy colors like navy/white or mint/coral, a tailored 6-7 inch inseam, and quick-dry recycled fabric to capture the Vilebrequin look for less.