The landscape of men’s fashion is undergoing a significant transformation, with swimwear emerging from the shadows of practicality to claim its rightful place as a style statement. Once relegated to the confines of beach bags and perceived as a mere functional item, men’s swimwear is now being meticulously redefined by a burgeoning wave of homegrown Indian designers. These innovators are not just crafting garments for aquatic activities; they are curating essential pieces that embody confidence, versatility, and a sophisticated approach to leisurewear.
The Shifting Sands of the Indian Swimwear Market
The global and Indian sportswear markets are experiencing robust growth, with a notable surge in the broader athleisure and fitness-driven consumption. While precise figures for the niche men’s sports and swimwear segment can vary, industry reports suggest a market potentially exceeding ₹200 crore (approximately $2 billion when considering broader definitions). This expansion is fueled by an increasing emphasis on performance-oriented features like quick-drying and moisture-wicking fabrics, with versatile styles such as trunks, board shorts, and jammers gaining significant traction due to their comfort and adaptability.
Euromonitor International, a leading market research firm, highlights the explosive growth of the sportswear market in India, indicating a strong consumer appetite for fitness-related apparel. This trend directly influences the swimwear category, pushing it towards more sophisticated and performance-driven designs.
The Catalyst for Change: Travel and Evolving Lifestyles
A significant driver behind this evolution is the surge in international and domestic travel. The Ministry of Tourism reports that Indians undertook over 32 million trips abroad in 2025 alone, a figure that continues its upward trajectory. This increased mobility translates to more time spent by poolsides, on beaches, and in resort environments. Consequently, there’s a growing demand for swimwear that not only performs well but also aligns with a traveler’s aesthetic sensibilities.
"If you wear a product, you want to feel confident," states Sanket Shingare, founder of Mumbai-based men’s innerwear brand, Erobold. Shingare recognized a gap in the market, where traditional men’s swimwear often adopted a "one-size-fits-all" approach. Erobold’s "Half Swim Band" line challenges this, utilizing high-grade nylon and premium metal accents to offer a swim trunk that transcends mere functionality. The brand consistently receives feedback that their trunks empower men to feel "sexy but not exposed." Unexpectedly, these designs have also proven accommodating for certain medical conditions, like hernias, adding another layer of thoughtful functionality.
Krishna Kilachand, co-founder of Mumbai-based resort wear brand, House of Malabaar, views swimwear as a gateway to a broader emotional shift. "Post-Covid, people want to enjoy the little moments like taking a swim, lounging, and feeling present. Swimwear is no longer just about the poolside; it is about a state of mind," he explains. House of Malabaar meticulously sources fabrics from South Korea, emphasizing high-quality finishes, comfort-focused mesh lining, and silhouettes that are both travel-ready and elegantly tailored. Kilachand notes that his pieces are suitable for a wide range of occasions, from resort brunches to beach weddings, underscoring their versatility.
A Global Design Language for the Indian Man
The design ethos permeating this new generation of men’s swimwear is distinctly international. Subtle prints, luxurious, soft-to-the-touch mesh, and adjustable side-cinchers and drawstrings cater to diverse body types and preferences for coverage. This marks a significant departure from mass-market offerings that often catered to an idealized, athletic male physique. "We offer plus-two length on any size," says Kilachand, illustrating their commitment to inclusivity. "So if you’re 6’3" and want more knee coverage, we make that happen." This focus on customizable fits and thoughtful design addresses a broader spectrum of consumer needs.
The Summer Dress Code: Fashion-Forward and Functional
Delhi-based Shivan & Narresh are witnessing a pronounced increase in demand for men’s swimwear that harmonizes fashion-forward aesthetics with practicality. Narresh Kukreja, a co-founder, observes a paradigm shift: "In the past, their (men’s) choices were largely driven by utility, often leaning towards performance-focussed sportswear brands. Today, there is a growing openness to fashion-forward swimwear – men are increasingly turning to style-centric brands to make a statement, especially on holiday. In those shared universal spaces where everyone, regardless of background or culture, is dressed down to just a great pair of swim trunks or swim shorts, men want to ensure their choices reflect both the vibe of the getaway and a sense of personal style."
Kukreja further elaborates on the growing appeal of prints: "There’s definitely a growing demand for prints, but more importantly, men are now seeking ready-to-wear options specifically for holidays. Co-ord sets are particularly popular, but resort shirts continue to see consistent demand throughout the year – their versatility makes them perfect not just for vacations, but also for weekends or relaxed poolside days."
Regional Shifts and Evolving Tastes
Interestingly, Hyderabad is emerging as a leading market for menswear sales, according to Kukreja. This signals a broader regional evolution in fashion appetite. "The men there are not just well-travelled, but also increasingly style-conscious and open to experimenting with fashion, whether it’s bold prints, modern cuts, or elevated resortwear. Their approach is refreshingly progressive, and that reflects in the way they shop," he notes.
The brand has also observed a significant uptick in demand linked to destination travel. "As more people plan getaways, there’s a natural uptick in purchases related to holiday dressing – from statement shirts to stylish co-ord sets. But beyond travel, gifting plays a significant role too. Our shirts and polos have become go-to gifts, especially from women buying for the men," Kukreja adds.
The increasing exposure to global fashion trends through travel is shaping men’s personal style significantly. "Travel offers a unique opportunity to observe what people are wearing around the world and how trends are evolving, and that inevitably shapes their personal style," Kukreja observes. He believes that while utility-driven pieces will always have a place, tailored, premium swim shorts are now becoming "must-haves," akin to luxury watches or statement sneakers.
Embracing Cultural Narratives in Swimwear
The evolving narrative of men’s swimwear extends beyond mere aesthetics to encompass cultural storytelling. Rahul Jagtiani, a Mumbai-based entrepreneur and host of The Plush Podcast, who has been a regular swimmer for decades, prioritizes ease and functionality. While he keeps his personal collection practical, he enjoys variety through "different prints, cuts, and lengths."
Jagtiani recently highlighted Rey&I, a homegrown label founded by Delhi-based Nishant Singhal. He was particularly impressed by their "Plaj" collection, which features hand-painted designs by an Afghan refugee artist. "They sent me a beautiful printed pair that was hand-painted by an Afghan refugee artist, along with her photograph. The storytelling was powerful and really stayed with me; it’s a pair I wear often," he shares.
The "Plaj" collection, launched in November last year, translates the intricate watercolour works of Afghan artist Fatima Farhad – rooted in traditional Afghan motifs and miniature art – into contemporary swimwear. Rey&I actively collaborates with artists and artisans to create "wearable narratives." Their "Kala" collection, launched prior to "Plaj," draws inspiration from Indian craft traditions, including Gond art (Madhya Pradesh), Warli art (a 5,000-year-old indigenous folk art from Maharashtra), and Pichwai (Rajasthan). These collections reinterpret hand-drawn and hand-painted motifs into contemporary prints, positioning swimwear as a canvas for cultural expression.
Addressing the Gaps: Fit, Confidence, and Awareness
Jagtiani identifies a key area where men’s swimwear still falls short in India: awareness. "There’s a lack of understanding of what suits your body type," he states. "If you’re not confident in your body, avoid tiny briefs like Speedos; instead, opt for slightly longer lengths." This underscores the need for education and a broader range of fits and styles to cater to diverse body shapes and build confidence.
Mumbai-based bespoke tailoring brand Sarah & Sandeep’s collaboration with House of Malabaar exemplifies the shift towards premium, versatile swimwear. The collection, priced from ₹12,000 for off-the-rack styles and ₹20,000 for bespoke creations, features lightweight, fast-drying fabrics designed for movement. These trunks are engineered to transition seamlessly from a beach shack drink to an impromptu dinner or a spontaneous swim, embodying the concept of resort wear that doubles as everyday wear.
The design language of the Sarah & Sandeep x House of Malabaar collaboration integrates Sarah & Sandeep’s signature tailoring codes with House of Malabaar’s tropical flair. Pintuck accents inspired by palm leaf shadows and seashell motifs are integrated into sleek silhouettes that evoke the rhythm of the sea. "A good pair of swim shorts with side adjusters can work with a shirt tucked in. Throw on a blazer, and you’re ready for dinner," says Sandeep, highlighting the inherent versatility of these modern swimwear pieces.
The Future of Men’s Holiday Wear
Looking ahead, Narresh Kukreja foresees a rapid evolution in the men’s holiday wear category. "We’re seeing the barriers of niche appeal and limited consumption break down, as men across various regions of the country become more open to experimenting and view vacation dressing as an essential part of their wardrobe. It’s no longer just about basic denim and T-shirts – it’s about how they want to present themselves while travelling."
This evolution signifies a broader cultural acceptance of leisurewear as a legitimate fashion category. Men are increasingly investing in pieces that reflect their personal style and enhance their experiences, whether by the water or in a relaxed social setting. The transition of swimwear from a purely functional item to a style statement is a testament to the changing dynamics of men’s fashion in India, driven by increased travel, a growing appreciation for design, and a desire for self-expression. The future promises a more diverse, sophisticated, and culturally resonant landscape for men’s swimwear.
