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American gymnast Simone Biles kicked off Paris 2024 with a dazzling performance, leading her team to a place in the final.
The 27-year-old, who withdrew from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics after suffering a bout of “twisties” (disorientation suffered by gymnasts while in the air), returned in full force to the Bercy Arena in the City of Light on Sunday.
Equally spectacular was her shimmering, star-studded leotard. Biles balanced the sparkle with a gray, almost holographic leotard that displayed a poise both in her ensemble and in her performance.
If you're inspired by the bright outfits on display at the Paris Olympics, here's how to incorporate the style into your summer swimwear.
All that glitters
To make a strong yet subtle statement, opting for textiles with shiny threads is a great way to incorporate sparkle into an otherwise basic piece.
Swimwear brands such as Triangl and Hunza G are known for their Seventies-inspired lurex pieces, but high street retailers such as M&S and & Other Stories have dabbled in the trend this summer, no doubt taking inspiration from the bright summer sport.
M&S Metallic One Shoulder Swimsuit, £42
Triangl Mari Cassa Sparkly Bikini Set, £99
Bold diamond
If there's ever a time to shine, it's during a heatwave in spectacular swimwear. A chance to channel your inner Kylie: chunky rhinestones are back in style this summer thanks to the sparkles Taylor Swift sported on her Era's Tour.
If swimsuits usually make you feel a little exposed, this crystal trend adds a layer of sparkling armor, turning the suit into the star of the show.
Brands Oséree and Oceanus lead the way in this bright style, but retailers such as River Island and Karen Millen offer stellar substitutes.
Karen Millen Asymmetric Cut Out Sequin Thong Swimsuit, £79
(Pretty little thing/PA)
Pretty Little Thing Pink Diamante Bikini Bottom, £5.50 (was £12)Molten metals
Take a trip back to the 80s with wet-look metallics. After a huge comeback last year driven by the Kardashians and micro-influencers, shiny metallics are just as eye-catching as the silhouette of its heyday.
A cut that defined a generation, the high-waisted, hip-bone-length suits of the 1980s saturate our current swimwear options.
Over-the-top in every way: Eighties swimwear was skimpy, elongated and hinted at the extremes of the decade's sportswear. It's no surprise that the style has infiltrated beachwear this season against the backdrop of the Paris Olympics.
Calzedonia Light Reflections Swimsuit, £29.50 (was £59)
Kript One Shoulder Metallic Logo Detail Bodysuit, £11.50 (was £38), Asos
