☀️ Introduction: The Viral One-Shoulder Wonder
It’s been hailed as the most flattering swimsuit on the internet. The Summersalt Sidestroke has dominated Instagram feeds, TikTok try-ons, and travel flat lays since it launched. With over 10,000 five-star reviews and celebrity endorsements, the one-shoulder wonder claims to be stylish, supportive, and sustainable. But is it all just hype, or does the Sidestroke swimsuit actually live up to its rep?
In this review, we dive into what makes the Sidestroke go viral—and whether it’s the best swimwear investment or just another Instagram illusion.
👙 Design Breakdown: Modern Elegance Meets Practicality
The Sidestroke’s defining feature is its asymmetric one-shoulder cut, which gives a high-fashion edge while offering more support than your typical bandeau. The color-blocking is strategic—panels and seams are placed to contour the body visually, offering a slimming and shaping effect without boning or padding.
👍 What Works:
- Seam placement flatters the waist.
- One-shoulder strap provides good lift for smaller to medium busts.
- Full bottom coverage = no awkward tugging.
👎 What Might Not:
- Larger busts may find the top lacking in structure.
- The one-shoulder style can lead to uneven tan lines (if that matters to you!).
🌍 Sustainability: Conscious Comfort
Summersalt markets itself as an eco-conscious brand. The Sidestroke is made with recycled polyamide and elastane, saving landfill space and reducing environmental impact. The suit also ships in minimal packaging, aligning with the brand’s low-waste philosophy.
♻️ Pros:
- Fabric made from post-consumer waste.
- Designed to last for years, not seasons.
🧵 Cons:
- Not biodegradable (it’s still synthetic).
- Sustainability premium = higher price tag.
💰 Price & Value: Luxe Quality, Mid-Range Cost
At $95, the Sidestroke is positioned in that “affordable luxury” lane—not Target cheap, but not designer outrageous. The material feels thick and lined, providing compression and durability. Compared to other $100+ swimsuits that sag after a summer, this one holds its shape well.
💸 Is It Worth It?
- For frequent pool/beachgoers: Yes.
- For one-time wear: Maybe not.
- Budget tip: Watch for 20–30% off sales during seasonal drops!
📸 Fit & Sizing: Influencer-Approved or Fit Gamble?
The brand is inclusive in sizing, offering sizes 0–26, which is rare in designer-style swimwear. Most customers say the suit runs true to size, though some recommend sizing up if you’re between sizes or have a longer torso.
📏 Fit Verdict:
- Curvy and straight figures alike can rock it.
- Not adjustable—what you order is what you get.
- Bust support = moderate, not high.
🆚 Comparison: Sidestroke vs. Competitors
Compared to swimwear giants like Andie, Aerie, and J.Crew:
- Summersalt wins on structure and sustainability.
- Aerie is more budget-friendly but doesn’t offer the same sculpting.
- J.Crew offers more classic silhouettes, less Instagram-forward.
So, is the Sidestroke the most flattering suit ever made? If you’re going for structure + style + sustainability, it’s tough to beat.
👠 Final Verdict: Style Meets Function—with Caveats
The Summersalt Sidestroke Swimsuit isn’t just an Instagram darling—it’s actually thoughtfully designed, flattering, and made to last. But while it suits a wide range of body types, it may not work for those needing heavy-duty bust support or looking for adjustability.
✅ Get it if:
- You love sleek, minimal design.
- You want a swimsuit that sculpts and lasts.
- You care about sustainability.
❌ Skip it if:
- You need molded cups or underwire.
- You’re shopping under a $50 budget.
🏁 Bottom Line
It’s not just a social media illusion. The Sidestroke blends function and fashion with a sustainable edge. If you’re ready to invest in a statement piece that holds up in the water and on your feed, it may just be your swimwear soulmate.