I remember when it was possible to save up and make a designer purchase once or twice a year. Today, with the cost-of-living so high, it pays to know your fashion references.

model swimming underwater in a zig zag bikini by m&s
COURTESY OF MARKS AND SPENCER
M&S bikini top. £24, bikini bottoms, £14

Which brings me straight to this textured zig-zag bikini released today by M&S. If you know your fashion history as nerdily as I do, you’ll be aware this zig-zag pattern is similar to the signature style of the Italian fashion house Missoni.

Textured Triangle Bikini Top

Textured Triangle Bikini Top

Textured Triangle Bikini Top

Years ago, I was lucky enough to meet one of its founders, Rosita Missoni, who together with her husband Ottavio – known as Tai – founded Missoni in 1963. Soon they became famous for their intricate knitting techniques and especially their artistic use of colour to create distinctive and luxurious zig-zag patterns similar to this.

Textured Triangle Bikini Top, sizes 6-24

Textured Triangle Bikini Top, sizes 6-24

Textured Triangle Bikini Top, sizes 6-24

Textured Tie Side Bikini Bottoms

Textured Tie Side Bikini Bottoms

Textured Tie Side Bikini Bottoms

What I especially love about this bikini is the artistic combination of pale blue, soft green, pink, white, tan and burgundy, which allows it to suit all skin tones.

Mixed Shell Necklace

Mixed Shell Necklace

Mixed Shell Necklace

Though it looks handmade, the adorable shell necklace shown in the lead image is also newly available on M&S for £35. Or accessorize it with elegant sandals a raffia bag, or compliment your holiday wardrobe with a the dress of summer or a chic white top.

Printed Ruffle V-Neck Swimsuit by Monsoon

Printed Ruffle V-Neck Swimsuit by Monsoon

Printed Ruffle V-Neck Swimsuit by Monsoon

Zig Zag Fringed Beach Cover Up by Monsoon

Zig Zag Fringed Beach Cover Up by Monsoon

Zig Zag Fringed Beach Cover Up by Monsoon

If this bikini is a little too skimpy for you, M&S also stock Monsoon's zig-zag swimsuit and flowy cover-up, bringing a different take on this luxury inspired style to your summer.