Editors Enjoy Gatekeeping This Bikini Brand—4 Outfits I Tried On and Must Discuss

      At Who What Wear, we feel that the time for fashion gatekeeping is done. We’re unveiling the industry's best-kept secrets, starting with the bikini brand that occupies a special place in every fashion editor's wardrobe: Monday Swimwear. Founded by former content creators Natasha Oakley and Devin Brugman, Monday Swimwear has gained a devoted following due to its exceptional commitment to fit, quality, and timeless style. It's one of the rare brands that emphasizes size inclusivity above all else. Their bikinis, from the signature Amalfi top to universally flattering bottoms, are available in sizes ranging from "Petite Petite" to "Very Very Voluptuous." True to its mission of serving all shapes and sizes, the brand recently launched a Small Band, Large Cup collection (fitting a 28" to 34" underbust and DD to G cup), providing new options for those with smaller frames and larger busts across three of its most popular underwire swimwear styles.

      But their offerings go far beyond just bikinis and one-pieces; the brand also features a complete vacation wardrobe. You’ll find easy drawstring pants to wear over a swimsuit, a structured straw tote that adds polish to any outfit, sarongs that can be styled around the waist or worn as tops, crochet mini and maxi dresses suitable for transitioning from the beach to the bar, and bold earrings that showcase your style.

      Drawing inspiration from Oakley's Australian roots and Brugman's Californian background, they have infused elements from both locations into their brand. This blend merges the laid-back vibe of California with the sun-kissed coastal energy of Australian fashion, resulting in pieces that showcase surf-inspired textures, earthy tones, and contemporary details, perfect for both beach days and city outings. Since its inception in 2014, Monday Swimwear has established a solid, reliable reputation in the market. This success has allowed the brand to expand its direct-to-consumer presence from online sales to physical retail locations, beginning in Los Angeles and recently branching out to New York City. As a resident of NYC and having never tried the brand before, I made it a priority to visit the Monday Swimwear NYC store within the first week of its opening to experience their offerings firsthand.

      Continue reading to see the four outfits I tried on and my candid thoughts on the fit and style of each piece.

      **A Look Inside the NYC Store**

      **What I Tried On**

      **Outfit #1**

      My Review: Summer hasn’t even begun, and I’m already enchanted by the idea of styling sarongs (must be large ones) in unexpected ways. When I entered the store and saw the Marina Piccola in a sophisticated brown-and-white print, I knew it had to be my first try-on. I chose to style it as a strapless top and paired it with the Tahiti pants, which are lightweight and extremely comfortable, suitable for both casual and dressy looks. While these pieces look chic together, their versatility allows for numerous styling possibilities. I can easily envision wearing the Piccola as a skirt over a white bikini or teaming the Tahiti pants with an upscale tank and kitten heels. Both items fit true to size; however, petite shoppers should be aware that the pants may run long.

      **Shop the Look:**

      - Monday: Marina Piccola Sarong

      - Monday Swimwear: Tahiti Pant

      **Outfit #2**

      My Review: If you know me, you understand that I usually stick to a color palette of black, white, and various shades of beige. Therefore, you might be surprised that I was drawn to try on, and ultimately fell in love with, this light blue crochet dress and matching bikini. The reason is largely due to the enthusiastic recommendations from the store staff at Monday Swimwear. I ended up loving the ensemble, and to my surprise, I think the light blue complements my fair skin and dirty-blonde hair.

      Beyond the color, what really impressed me was the fit and quality of the Montego dress. I’ve always been wary of crochet dresses, as I typically find the material thick and unflattering; however, this one was completely different. It was lightweight and draped beautifully. The bikini underneath fit wonderfully, providing both support and comfort. Both pieces are true to size.

      **Shop the Look:**

      - Monday Swimwear: Montego Mini Tie Dress

      - Monday Swimwear: Palma Top

      - Monday Swimwear: Kauai Bottom

      - Monday Swimwear: Valencia Bag

      **Outfit #3**

      My Review: A linen set—whether a bralette and trousers or a button-down and shorts—is essential for a fashion editor's summer wardrobe. Not only are linen pieces lightweight and breathable, ideal for hot days, but their effortless style allows for intentional dressing with minimal thought. Monday Swimwear has a variety of linen items and matching sets, but I opted for the La Jolla top, an oversized button-down, and