Carve Designs Review: My favorites!

Read on why Carve Designs is one of my favorite clothing brands, from swimwear to fall layers. Here is my review + my top Carve picks!

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Carve Designs Review: My favorite picks!

When I first discovered Carve Designs, it was their swimwear that pulled me in. I was looking for suits that were comfortable, flattering, and could handle playing with kids on the beach — and Carve checked all the boxes. I’ve slowly accumulated more and more pieces from Carve, from shorts and cover-ups to sweaters and jackets.

Carve was founded by two women who wanted activewear and swimwear that could keep up with an outdoor lifestyle. Their mission is to design clothing that’s both functional and stylish — think fabrics that stretch, breathe, and dry quickly, paired with cuts that look polished enough for everyday wear. They also focus on sustainability, using organic cotton, recycled fabrics, and responsible production methods in much of their line. Their pieces don’t feel “fast fashion” — they’re the kind of clothes you invest in once and wear season after season.

What I Love About Carve Designs

1. Versatility – Carve isn’t just a swim brand; they cover beach days, active days, and cozy fall layering.
2. Soft + functional fabrics – Everything I own feels comfortable but never sloppy, with enough structure to dress up a little if needed.
3. Smart design details – Rashguards with UPF, reversible jackets, thoughtfully placed pockets.
4. Consistent quality – Wash after wash, Carve pieces stay in shape and hold their color. While the price point might be higher, these are investment pieces.

My Carve Designs Favorites

Here are the staples I’ve loved most:

Swimwear

Carve’s swim line is still my first love. Their suits stay put, provide enough coverage to feel like you can move around (IYKYK!), and come in fresh colors and prints that you can mix and match. I especially love the rashguards to use as a beach cover up and sun shield (saving on sunscreen!) My favorites are the Dahlia suit and Tofino top below.

Tofino Top in Wildflower

I LOVE LOVE this long-line swim top! It goes with any solid color bottoms you might match (or you can buy the matching ones). It’s basically like wearing a sports bra on the beach – totally comfortable and supportive. Comes in a bunch of different colors and mine is small in the D/DD size. (See a few more swim options in this post.)

Alex Gauze Dress

This lightweight dress is my very favorite dress in my closet! It’s breezy enough for hot days, is very comfortable for wearing out and about, and can be dressed up with sandals and earrings for dinner. Plus pockets!!!

Bali Shorts + Cruz Rashguard

These have become my go-to shorts and top for the beach and pool. The shorts are soft, easy to move in, and have front and back pockets that make them practical for long beach walks. They are also high waisted so you can wear them with confidence! The Cruz Rashguard is UPF covered and great for a layer from the wind and sun. I have a medium. 

Remi Romper

Obsessed with this romper! It’s so comfortable with pockets and a tie waist. I think a tie waist is a must-have on a romper because otherwise you look a little like a billowly square. Love it! Size small. 

Banff Shorts

Another warm-weather winner, these have a slightly more polished fit while still being comfortable. I love them for hot summer days, but they work great as a beach short, too. And the Camryn Top is lightweight, breathable, and flowy. It’s cropped so it’s super easy to tuck in. Love the neckline! Made from organic cotton. I’m also wearing a medium in this. 

Nellie Linen Dress

This linen dress is also so light and airy (as linen is!) with great pockets. It is perfect for both a summer picnic or as a beach coverup! I’m wearing a small and it’s a bit big for size. 

Reversible Marias Jacket

New for my fall wardrobe — one jacket, two looks. It’s warm, cozy, and easy to style with jeans or leggings. I love the buttons and that it’s reversible!

Neve Sweater

Carve’s fall knitwear has surprised me in the best way. The sweaters are soft but not bulky and not itchy! I also love this sweater I got a few seasons ago. It’s a shorter crop.

Audrey Wide-Leg Pants

The wide-leg pants are trendy without feeling like I’m drowning in fabric. Every time I’ve worn them, I’ve gotten compliments! I did have to get them hemmed since I’m only 5’2″ but it was worth the $12 cost! I’m wearing them with the Dylan top, another classic Carve piece.

A few notes:

1. Sizing quirks – Some pieces (especially pants) may need a little tailoring. I’m only 5’2″ and had to have the pants hemmed. I wish they had petite sizes! I’d say overall their clothes lean on the bigger side, so if you’re torn between small and medium, get small. I’m generally a small in dresses and swimwear.
2. Price point – They’re not budget basics, but I’ve found the quality and longevity worth the investment.

Final Thoughts

Carve Designs has a favorites spot in my closet! Whether it’s a swimsuit for vacation, my favorite dress for summer, or a cozy jacket for fall, their clothes strike the right balance between comfort, function, and style. Add in their commitment to sustainability, and it’s a brand I feel good supporting.