The Essential Swim Trunk: Tailored vs. Boardshorts
For a vacation, your swimwear needs to pull double duty: it should look sharp at the beach club or pool bar and perform well in the water. The two main silhouettes are tailored swim trunks and classic boardshorts. Tailored trunks, which hit around 5-7 inches above the knee, offer a polished, modern look. They pair well with linen shirts and leather sandals for an effortless transition from sand to lunch. Opt for a 7-inch inseam if you have longer legs; a 5-inch inseam works better for shorter torsos to lengthen the leg line. Boardshorts, with a longer 10-12 inch inseam, are ideal for active water sports like surfing or jet skiing. They provide more coverage and typically have a drawstring waist. Choose a pair with a side zip pocket to keep keys or cash secure.
Colors and Patterns: What Works Where
Solid colors are your safest bet for versatility. Navy, olive, and charcoal trunks can be dressed up or down. For resort wear, a muted sage or terracotta adds a seasonal touch without being loud. If you want a pattern, go for small-scale prints like micro-geometric, mini palm fronds, or subtle stripes. Avoid large logos or novelty prints that look dated. A classic seersucker stripe in blue and white is preppy and fresh. For poolside lounging, a bright coral or turquoise solid makes a statement. But keep the rest of your outfit neutral to balance the pop of color. Remember, pattern on trunk and pattern on shirt is a clash unless you are very intentional. Stick to one patterned piece per outfit.
Fabrics and Fit: Comfort and Performance
The fabric of your swimwear matters for both comfort and durability. Look for a blend of nylon and spandex for stretch and quick drying; pure polyester can feel scratchy and retains water. A mesh lining is standard inside most trunks for support, but some higher-end options have a built-in brief for a cleaner look. For the fit, your waistband should sit at your natural waist, not sagging below the hips. The leg opening should be snug enough that the fabric doesn’t balloon when wet. A quick test: if you can grab more than an inch of fabric at the thigh, the size is too big. For boardshorts, ensure they have a tie closure that can be cinched tight. Avoid Velcro or button closures that can loosen in the water.
Packing for the Beach Club: From Pool to Lunch
Your vacation swimwear should be part of a cohesive beach-to-bar outfit. Pack one pair of tailored trunks in a neutral color like navy, and one pair in a light color like beige or white for daytime. For the beach club, wear the tailored trunks with a linen button-down shirt left unbuttoned over a simple crew neck tee. Add leather slides or espadrilles. If you plan to swim, switch to boardshorts and a performance polo or rash guard. For poolside lounging, a cotton tank top or short-sleeve camp shirt works. Always have a cover-up like a lightweight kimono or a cotton shirt to slip on when moving from sun to shade. Pack a pair of quick-drying microfiber briefs to wear under your trunks for extra support during long days.
Caring for Your Swimwear
To make your swim trunks last through multiple vacations, rinse them in cold water after each use to remove chlorine or salt. Never wring them out; instead, roll them in a towel to absorb excess water. Lay flat to dry away from direct sunlight, which can fade colors. Avoid tossing them in the dryer, as heat damages elastic fibers. If you have a white pair, wash them separately to avoid color transfer. For boardshorts with Velcro closures, ensure the Velcro is fastened before washing to prevent snagging.
Key Takeaway
Pack one tailored pair in a dark neutral and one boardshort in a light color to cover both style and function.
