Women's swimwear
Retailers have reported strong sales of halter tops and hipsters in women's swimwear in the lead up to summer 2005/ 2006. Hot styles include the bohemian kaftan and strong colours such as turquiose and chocolate are in high demand.
"Currently our biggest sellers are halters. We sell mix and match tops and bottoms. By having the option of buying tops and bottoms at different sizes we find that's a benefit of our range," says Julie Wiggins, owner of Viva Swimwear.
Only half of the retailers interviewed by Ragtrader agree that business is better than last year. Almost 90 per cent of customers are opting to pay by credit card.
Top selling brands
1. Seafolly
2. Sunseeker
3. Speedo
4. Palazzi
5. Ada and Baku
Average spend
$90
Cash or credit?
Cash: 12.5 %
Credit: 87.5%
Business performance
Better: 50%
Worse: 25%
Same: 25%
Popular styles
1. Halter tops and briefs
2. Tank tops and hipster bottoms
3. Bohemian kaftans
4. Board shorts
Top 2 colours
Chocolate and turquiose
Trends backed for summer
1. Bohemian kaftans
2. Brightly coloured swimsuits
3. Board shorts