When it comes to men's holiday style, few brands capture the spirit of summer quite like Vilebrequin. Known for vibrant prints, impeccable craftsmanship and a distinctly carefree attitude, the French luxury label has become synonymous with sunshine, travel and effortless elegance.
For Spring/Summer 2026, Vilebrequin returns with another collection of colourful swim shorts, premium polo shirts, graphic tees and resort-ready essentials that perfectly embody the brand's famous "Art of Living in the Sun" philosophy.
The Story Behind Vilebrequin
Vilebrequin was founded in 1971 in the glamorous French Riviera town of Saint-Tropez by Fred Prysquel, a photographer and motoring journalist. Legend has it that Prysquel sketched his first swim short design on a café tablecloth after becoming inspired by the longer, looser-fitting surf shorts worn by Californian surfers.
At a time when men were still wearing very short, tight swimwear, Vilebrequin introduced a more relaxed boxer-style short that offered greater comfort, freedom of movement and unmistakable style. The design quickly became a hit among holidaymakers and celebrities visiting Saint-Tropez.
The brand's name, "Vilebrequin", is the French word for a crankshaft - a nod to Prysquel's passion for motor racing and automobiles.
More than fifty years later, Vilebrequin remains one of the world's most recognisable luxury swimwear brands, available in over 60 countries and celebrated for its playful prints, premium fabrics and enduring quality.
What Makes Vilebrequin Special?
Unlike many swimwear brands, Vilebrequin has never been afraid of colour.
From tropical marine life and sea turtles to geometric patterns and artistic designs, each collection is designed to bring a sense of fun and personality to summer dressing. Yet beneath the playful appearance lies exceptional craftsmanship.
Many Vilebrequin swim shorts are made using lightweight, quick-drying technical fabrics and feature thoughtful details including mesh linings, durable construction and comfortable fits that have been refined over decades. The brand has also invested heavily in sustainability initiatives and long-lasting product quality, encouraging customers to buy less but buy better.
Our SS26 Vilebrequin Highlights
The Spring/Summer 2026 collection continues everything customers love about the brand.
Printed Swim Shorts
If you're new to Vilebrequin, the swim shorts are the perfect place to start. This season features everything from subtle nautical motifs to bold tropical designs that instantly elevate any holiday wardrobe.
Graphic T-Shirts
Vilebrequin's premium cotton tees offer a more wearable route into the brand. Featuring signature turtle motifs, coastal-inspired graphics and vibrant seasonal colours, they're ideal for beach clubs, city breaks and relaxed weekends alike.
Polo Shirts
For customers wanting something slightly smarter, the collection's polo shirts provide the perfect balance between luxury and casual style. Lightweight, breathable and unmistakably Mediterranean in spirit, they're easy to dress up or down.
Resortwear Essentials
SS26 also includes a range of versatile summer staples designed to transition seamlessly from beach to bar, making them ideal for holidays, cruises and warm-weather events.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vilebrequin
Is Vilebrequin a luxury brand?
Yes. Vilebrequin is widely regarded as one of the leading luxury swimwear and resortwear brands in the world. The brand combines premium fabrics, meticulous construction and distinctive design with a heritage dating back to 1971.
Why is Vilebrequin so expensive?
The higher price reflects the quality of materials, specialist manufacturing processes, detailed prints and long-lasting construction. Many customers keep their Vilebrequin swim shorts for years, making them an investment piece rather than a seasonal purchase.
What does the turtle logo mean?
The turtle has become one of Vilebrequin's most recognisable symbols, representing the ocean, travel and the relaxed coastal lifestyle that sits at the heart of the brand.
Are Vilebrequin swim shorts worth it?
For many customers, absolutely. The combination of comfort, durability, timeless styling and premium quality means they often outlast cheaper alternatives by several seasons.
Where is Vilebrequin from?
Vilebrequin was founded in Saint-Tropez on the French Riviera in 1971 and remains deeply connected to the glamour and carefree spirit of the Mediterranean coast.
How does Vilebrequin sizing fit?
Most Vilebrequin garments fit true to size, although customers who prefer a more relaxed fit may choose to size up in certain styles. As always, we recommend checking the product-specific size guide before ordering.
Discover Vilebrequin at Robinsons of Bawtry
If your idea of summer style involves vibrant colour, exceptional quality and a touch of Riviera sophistication, Vilebrequin remains one of the finest menswear brands available today.
Whether you're planning a luxury beach holiday, upgrading your poolside wardrobe or simply looking to bring a little Saint-Tropez spirit to your everyday style, the SS26 collection delivers everything that has made Vilebrequin a summer icon for more than five decades.
Explore the latest Vilebrequin collection online or visit us in-store to discover the brand that has been perfecting the art of summer since 1971.
