Quick Answer

Choose swimwear by matching the cut to your comfort and the fabric to how you'll use it. For beach days with lots of movement, a beach boxer with inner mesh briefs offers coverage and support. For a streamlined swim, mini briefs in polyamide elastane stay put and resist fading. Always rinse after swimming and dry in shade to keep colors and elasticity.

Buying swimwear online comes with a lot of questions: Will it fit? Will it last? How do I care for it? This FAQ answers the most common ones so you can pick the right piece with confidence.

We'll cover fit, fabric, care, and specific HOM styles. No fluff—just practical answers you can use before you add to cart.

Fit and Sizing

Swimwear should fit close but not tight. If you can pinch more than an inch of fabric at the hip, it may be too loose and could sag in water. If you see skin pulling at the leg opening, size up. HOM swim mini briefs are designed to highlight the hips and buttocks while moving like a second skin, so they should feel snug but never restrictive.

For beach boxers, check the leg cut. A slightly fitted cut on the leg reduces riding up. If you're between sizes, consider how you'll use it: for lounging, go with the larger size; for swimming laps or active beach sports, choose the smaller size for a more secure fit.

  • Measure your waist and hips, then compare to the size chart—don't guess.
  • Remember that swim fabric relaxes slightly in water, so a snug dry fit is normal.

Fabric and Durability

Most HOM swimwear uses polyamide (nylon) or polyamide elastane blends. These fabrics resist creasing, hold color well, and stay opaque when wet. Polyamide elastane in particular maintains its shape and color intensity over time, even after repeated exposure to chlorine and saltwater.

Mesh inner briefs, found in HOM beach shorts, are typically 100% polyester. They provide support and help the outer short keep its shape. If you prefer a streamlined feel without a liner, go with swim mini briefs.

  • Polyamide elastane = stretch and color retention; polyester mesh = support and quick-drying.
  • Avoid rough surfaces like pool edges to prevent snags, especially with prints.

Care and Maintenance

Rinse your swimwear in cold fresh water immediately after every swim. Chlorine, salt, and sunscreen can degrade fibers and fade colors if left to sit. Hand wash with a mild detergent or swimwear-specific wash, then lay flat to dry in the shade. Never wring, tumble dry, or iron.

If you're wondering how often to wash: after every wear. Even if it looks clean, sweat and body oils break down elasticity. A quick hand wash takes two minutes and dramatically extends the life of your suit.

  • Turn printed suits inside out before rinsing to protect the pattern.
  • Store dry and flat; hanging wet swimwear can stretch it out.

Drying and Storage

Air drying in the shade is best. Direct sunlight can fade colors over time, especially on dark navy or black suits. Lay the suit flat on a towel or hang it over a drying rack—avoid hanging by the waistband, which can distort the elastic.

Make sure it's completely dry before storing. A damp swimsuit in a bag or drawer can grow mildew and develop a musty smell. If you're packing for a trip, let it dry fully, then roll it loosely.

  • Never leave wet swimwear in a plastic bag for more than a few hours.
  • Rotate between two suits if you swim daily to give each one time to recover.

Style and Occasion

Think about where you'll wear it. For a resort pool with lounging, a beach boxer with pockets and a relaxed cut is practical. For swimming laps or a sporty beach day, mini briefs offer less drag and stay in place. Prints and patterns are personal—choose what makes you feel confident.

If you're between styles, consider versatility. A solid navy or black swim brief works for both swimming and sunbathing. A printed beach boxer doubles as casual shorts when paired with a t-shirt.

  • Beach boxers with side pockets are great for carrying small items.
  • Mini briefs are ideal for minimal tan lines and freedom of movement.

Swimwear FAQ Quick Reference

How should swimwear fit?

Snug but not tight, with no more than an inch of extra fabric at the hip. It should move with you and stay put in water. If it gapes or digs, size up or down.

What's the best fabric for swimwear?

Polyamide elastane for stretch, color retention, and opacity. Polyester mesh liners add support and dry quickly. Check the label for these fibers.

How do I wash swimwear?

Rinse in cold water after every wear, hand wash with mild soap, and lay flat to dry in shade. Never machine wash or tumble dry.

How do I prevent fading?

Avoid direct sunlight when drying, rinse off chlorine and salt immediately, and don't wring or twist. Shade drying keeps colors vibrant.

Beach boxer or mini brief?

Beach boxers offer more coverage and pockets; mini briefs provide a streamlined fit for swimming. Choose based on activity and comfort.

HOM Swimwear Facts to Know

  • Silversea Beach Boxer | Navy 401273-00ra: Beach shorts in polyamide with an original print of white fishes on a navy blue background, featuring mesh inner briefs in 100% polyester, a slightly fitted cut on the leg, and two side pockets. The mesh liner provides support without a separate brief, and the fitted leg reduces riding up. Side pockets add convenience for beach days.
  • Invisible Beach Boxer | Green 401434-1126: Beach shorts in colorful polyamide with an anchor motif in tone on tone only visible when wet, featuring mesh inner briefs in 100% polyester, a slightly fitted cut, and two side pockets. The hidden pattern adds a fun surprise when swimming. The same supportive liner and practical pockets make it a versatile choice.
  • Sea Life Swim Mini Briefs | Black 402534-0004: Swim briefs made of polyamide elastane that do not crease and maintain color intensity over time; the fabric is light, pleasant to wear, and remains opaque. Polyamide elastane resists fading and stretching, so the suit looks newer longer. The opaque fabric ensures coverage even when wet.
  • Panarea Swim Mini Briefs | Blue Print 403189-P0BI: Features an elegant print reminiscent of coral reefs off Panarea, Italy; classic HOM cut fits perfectly, provides good coverage over the hips, and sculpts the silhouette while ensuring support and comfort. The classic cut offers a secure, comfortable fit for swimming or lounging. The print adds style without compromising coverage.

With these answers, you're ready to choose swimwear that fits well and lasts. Remember: fit matters most, fabric comes second, and care makes it all last longer. If you're still unsure, start with a classic cut in a dark color—it's the most versatile.