Summer Trends 2026: Joyful Prints, Bold Colors & Conscious Living

Summer 2026 is calling, and it's bursting with color, creativity, and conscious choices! This season isn’t only about dressing for the sun. It’s about embracing life in full bloom. From radiant swimwear to skin-friendly sun protection, here’s what’s making waves this summer, plus an inside look at the joyful inspiration behind my newest bikini and swim trunks collection.

🎨 Bold Prints That Tell a Story

This summer, joy is in. After a few years of minimalist tones and beige overload, the tides are turning. In 2026, we’re embracing the power of print and personality.

My newest swimwear designs are a love letter to the world around us—nature’s playfulness meets artistic freedom. Whether it’s whimsical mushrooms, delicate birds, underwater sea life, or vivid floral gardens, every print tells a story and sparks joy. I believe in dressing not to impress others, but to express the inner self.

And when you wear something that brings a smile to your face, you radiate that energy outward. 

💬 Style Wisdom from a Role Model: Iris Apfel

Picture of Iris Apfel from the book 'Colorful Iris Apfel.'

When I design, I often think of Iris Apfel, a woman who has always inspired me to follow my instincts and embrace vibrant individuality.

“Celebrate your individuality and don’t try to be part of the herd.” — Iris Apfel

Iris never dressed to be noticed—she dressed because it felt right. That resonates deeply with me. She once said, “I put colors together because it feels good.” Her philosophy reminds us that confidence comes from within, and style should reflect our soul, not the trends dictated by fast fashion.

I design bikinis and swim trunks not to follow the crowd, but to invite others to follow joy, color, and their own intuition.

🌊 Swimwear with a Splash of Soul

Each bikini and men swim trunks in my summer line is made to celebrate nature and playfulness. Here are a few examples. Think:

🐠 Oceanic creatures swimming across sea-blue fabric

🍄 Whimsical mushrooms in enchanted forest patterns

🌺 Floral bursts, inspired by botanical gardens

🕊️ Birds in flight—symbolizing freedom, lightness, and spirit

These pieces are about more than just looking good. They’re about feeling good, too. That’s why I use recycled polyester, giving new life to materials that might otherwise end up in landfills. It’s fashion with a purpose because sustainability should be as natural as sunshine.

Plus, each piece is made with UPF 50+ protection, so your skin stays safe under the sun while you focus on fun, freedom, and feeling fabulous. To see even more men and women swimwear with my wearble art prints, visit my shop. 

☀️ Sunshine, But Make It Safe: Dr. Greger’s Sunscreen Advice

As someone who’s passionate about health, I couldn’t talk about summer without mentioning something important: sun protection. I had the chance to meet the brilliant Dr. Michael Greger in person—the physician and bestselling author behind How Not to Die, How Not to Diet, and How Not to Age.

When I asked him what he recommends for sunscreen, he confirmed:
👉 Use mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide—ingredients that create a physical barrier and avoid harmful chemicals.

Dr. Greger's work has influenced my lifestyle profoundly, and I highly recommend his books to anyone interested in plant-based wellness, longevity, and evidence-based living.

🌿 Living in Color, Living with Purpose

Iris Apfel once said that she surrounds herself with color not just in clothing, but in her home too. I feel the same. I believe in living joyfully and sustainably—in what we wear, how we treat our bodies, and the way we interact with the world.

So this summer, say yes to:

🎨 Bold colors that uplift
👙 Swimwear that celebrates your individuality
☀️ Sunscreen that protects you without harm
📚 Books that empower your mind and body
💖 Living in alignment with your joy

✨ Final Thought

Summer 2026 is all about embracing who you are with confidence, color, and care. Whether you're dancing in the sand, relaxing by the lake, or strolling through a sun-drenched garden, wear your truth, protect your skin, and let your light shine.

“If you don’t trust your own gut, who’s going to do it for you?” — Iris Apfel

Here's to a season of bold self-expression, nourishing choices, and unforgettable memories.

Love,
Anke