Written by Andree Latibeaudiere in Tips & Advice on the 15th July 2015

Swimwear is an important and essential part of a summer wardrobe and shouldn't be left to the last minute. These versatile pieces can be a real saviour when transitioning between different holiday activities and can double up as casual shorts, saving time and luggage space. The rules of summer shorts still apply when choosing your swimwear: check the fit around the hips, avoid extraneous pockets and zips and keep the length no longer than the bottom of your kneecap. Not all swimshorts are created equal, so here are our favourite brands for you to invest in this summer. 

1) Orlebar Brown 

Launched in 2007, this brand strives to combine classic tailoring with casual swimwear, exemplifying the versatility of a great pair of lightweight shorts that can be effortlessly combined with a button down shirt or thick cotton tee, even when you're not poolside.

2) Polo Ralph Lauren

Classically American with collegiate references, Polo Ralph Lauren is the more accessible and sportier label offering swimshorts in simple styles and block colours.

3) Faherty

For swim shorts with a conscience, look no farther than Faherty. Made from recycled and ethically sourced materials, this brand will appeal to lovers of sustainable fashion who don't want to compromise on quality or style.

4) Hartford

The seamless blend of European elegance and relaxed American attitude make Hartford the natural choice for men who want it all. The brand offers brilliant basics and prints, which aren't garish or difficult to style and feature the universally flattering classic cut.

5) Vilebrequin

Channel the St Tropez lifestyle in a turle-motifed swimshort from Vilebrequin. This brand has become as synonymous with luxury holidays as AMEX black cards, but even with the hype, the shorts look and fit great.

6) J Crew

These perennial favourites are a staple that will endure year after year and be as dependable as that navy two button suit. J Crew is known for its great craftsmanship and no-fuss styles and the classic 9" Board Short is an easy pick for summer.

7) Frescobal Carioca

Brazilian brand Frescobal Carioca takes inspiration from the streets of Rio de Janeiro to present simple, yet innovative designs in a range of styles. Choose from a classic short or a shorter (much shorter) brief if you're feeling brave.

8) Everest Isles

For those wanting high performance fabrics combined with interesting detail, Everest Isles is the ideal brand to choose. Sidenote: this brand also boasts the best acid orange shade on the market.

9) Sunspel

If you love flat-fronted trousers and find the word "loungewear" uncomfortable, these are the perfect holiday choice for you. Very clean and sharply cut, these swimshorts are a natural progression for those who love sharp lines.

10) Dolce & Gabbana

No brand does sensual swimwear better than Dolce & Gabbana, so this isn't a natural choice for the shy and retiring. Featuring bold prints and small silhouettes, these pieces will seriously put your personal trainer to the test. Wear with lashings of confidence.

We feature Frescobal, Vilebrequin and Orlebar Brown in this 2015 guide to 10 Men's Swim Short Brands You Should Know.