When it comes to affordable swimwear, shoppers have a wealth of options to choose from. Old Navy has long been a favorite for budget-conscious buyers seeking stylish and reliable bathing suits. However, other affordable brands like Target’s Kona Sol, Aerie, and H&M also offer competitive swimwear collections. This article compares Old Navy bathing suits to these popular brands, focusing on style, quality, fit, and price to help you decide which brand best suits your needs.
Style and Design Variety
Old Navy:
Old Navy’s swimwear collection is known for its wide variety of styles that cater to all ages and body types. From classic one-pieces to trendy bikinis and sporty options, Old Navy often incorporates current fashion trends with timeless basics.
Other Brands:
- Kona Sol (Target): Offers vibrant prints and trendy styles with a youthful vibe, often focusing on bold patterns and bright colors.
- Aerie: Famous for its body-positive campaigns, Aerie swimwear features inclusive sizing and feminine, playful designs.
- H&M: Provides fashion-forward swimwear with unique cuts and statement prints, appealing to trendsetters.
Winner: Old Navy and Aerie both excel in offering styles that accommodate various tastes and body types, but H&M leads for trendiness.
Quality and Fabric
Old Navy:
Old Navy uses soft, durable fabrics with a good amount of stretch. Their suits generally hold up well to chlorine and sun exposure, providing lasting comfort and shape retention.
Other Brands:
- Kona Sol: Utilizes quick-drying, stretchy materials that perform well but may not be as long-lasting as some competitors.
- Aerie: Focuses on quality materials that offer softness and durability, often including sustainable fabrics.
- H&M: Fashion-oriented fabrics sometimes sacrifice durability for style, but their mid-range pieces tend to offer reasonable quality.
Winner: Aerie slightly edges out others with its emphasis on fabric quality and sustainability, though Old Navy remains a dependable choice.
Fit and Sizing
Old Navy:
Old Navy offers an extensive size range, including plus sizes, and often sells separate tops and bottoms for customizable fits. Their suits generally run true to size, making it easier to shop online.
Other Brands:
- Kona Sol: Limited plus sizes but offers mix-and-match options for better fit customization.
- Aerie: Renowned for inclusive sizing and comfortable fits that cater to diverse body shapes.
- H&M: Standard sizing with fewer plus options; fit can vary by style.
Winner: Aerie leads in fit and sizing inclusivity, followed closely by Old Navy.
Price and Value
Old Navy:
Known for affordability, Old Navy regularly offers sales and promotions that make bathing suits very accessible. Typical prices range from $20 to $40 per piece, with frequent discounts.
Other Brands:
- Kona Sol: Comparable price range, often slightly lower during sales.
- Aerie: Slightly higher average prices but often justified by quality and inclusivity.
- H&M: Prices vary widely, with some very affordable options and others on the higher end.
Winner: Old Navy and Kona Sol are neck and neck for best value on a budget.
Overall Recommendation
If you want a reliable, affordable bathing suit with a great variety of sizes and styles, Old Navy is a solid all-around choice. For those prioritizing inclusive sizing and body positivity, Aerie may be the better fit. If trend-driven, fashion-forward swimwear is your focus, H&M offers edgy options. And if you’re looking for vibrant, budget-friendly basics, Kona Sol at Target is worth exploring.
No matter your priorities, all these brands provide accessible swimwear options that allow you to enjoy your time in the water without breaking the bank.
