It’s hard to know where to start when choosing a bikini. Two-piece bathing suits come in many different styles—both the tops and the bottoms. You also want to pick a bikini that’s flattering because not all styles are right for all body types.
This shopping guide covers all the types of bikinis currently on the market. We also help you choose the right one for your figure. Read to the end for our top picks, like the popular off-shoulder ruffle bikini by Tempt Me.
Bikini-top types
Triangle
A classic bikini style is the triangle. Featuring two triangle-shaped fabric pieces to cover each breast and strings to tie everything together, this top is flattering on all body types. For those with larger chests, you may find support lacking in “trikini” styles.
Underwire
For figures that do need more support up top, an underwire bikini top offers maximum support. Also a classic bikini style, underwire tops feature shoulder straps that are more substantial than triangle styles. Underwire tops mimic bras in appearance and are often sized like bras.
Bandeau
A popular style bikini top is the bandeau, which lacks shoulder straps altogether. Although some bandeau tops offer underwire support, most fit more like a tube top and are ideal for less busty figures, like athletic and pear-shaped body types.
One-shoulder
For a sexy “cold shoulder” look, one-shoulder tops add an asymmetrical twist on the classic bikini. If you like the look of a bandeau but need more support, a one-shoulder top is worth a try. You can also find bandeau and one-shoulder styles featuring ruffles for added flair and coverage.
Halter
For hour-glass and apple-shaped figures, a halter top is both a flattering and supportive style. With the ties secured around the neck, halter tops both lift and control. Depending on the cut, they can also provide more breast coverage.
Bikini-bottom styles
Side-tie
If you’ve got a string-tied top, like the classic triangle, a string bottom or side-tie will match it. These bottoms are tied at each hip with a string. This allows you to adjust the tightness for a perfect fit, which makes this bottom more versatile for all body types. Front and back coverage can range within this style.
Hipster
For moderate coverage, the hipster bottom features a substantial waistband that rests right on your hips. The backside typically features moderate coverage. To show a little more skin, you can find hipster cuts that scoop at the abdomen.
Cheeky
Similarly cut to the hipster, cheeky bottoms flaunt a little more skin both up front and especially on the backside. This style also elongates the legs. Thong bottoms are also growing in popularity and cover only a small portion of your backside with a vertical strip (or string) of fabric.
High waist
Not only providing ample abdomen coverage, high-waisted bikinis are also highly flattering, which explains their growing popularity. Hour-glass and apple-shaped figures are particularly suited to wear these bottoms because they accentuate the narrowest part of your waist.
High cut
Not to be confused with high-waisted bikinis, high cut or “high leg” bottoms are cut right at or above the hip bone for an elongated leg. This style is especially flattering for petite women and universally accentuates the leg for all body types.
Boy shorts/brief
For the most coverage, boy shorts are cut like boxer briefs and provide full backside coverage and some leg coverage. Most flattering on athletic body types, these bottoms are form-fitting and perfect for surfing or other water activities. Plus, they match with any style bikini top.
Bikini cost
Bikinis cost as little as $13 to as much as $300 for a luxury name brand. Midrange bikinis that’ll last more than one season start between $25 and $35.
Bikini FAQ
What type of fabric are bikinis made of?
A. Bikinis are made from a blend of 10–20% of “stretchy” elastane (also called by brand names Lycra or Spandex) and nylon or polyester. Polyester blends are more durable than nylon blends and protect against UV rays. Polyester blends also are fade- and chlorine-resistant.
How does bikini sizing work?
A. Bikinis can come in numeric sizing as well as letter sizing. For example, a brand may only offer sizes XS to XL and another may offer sizes 0 to 20. It’s best to go by the manufacturer’s size chart to find the perfect fit by measuring your dimensions at home with a soft measuring tape. Be aware that a size M in one brand may not fit the same as a size M in another.
To complicate matters, some manufacturers list the sizing of their tops in bra sizes. This will give you the most accurate fit up top and doesn’t require you to dig out a tape measure.
If I’m plus-sized, can I wear a bikini?
A. Absolutely. More and more brands are making two-piece swimsuits in extended sizing. Bikini tops for fuller figures often feature underwire or built-in support.
Which bikini should I get?
Best of the best bikini 2021
Tempt Me Off Shoulder Ruffled Bikini Set: available at Amazon
Our take: High-waisted bottoms paired with a ruffled top makes this a flirty bikini with a whole lot of coverage.
What we like: Tons of patterns and solid colors to choose from. Shoulder straps are removable if you want to go for a strapless look. Inclusive sizes from XS to 20 Plus.
What we dislike: Top isn’t that practical to swim in but is cute on the beach.
Best bang for your buck bikini 2021
Pink Queen Removable Strap High Waist Bikini Set: available at Amazon
Our take: Bandeau-style top with high-waisted bottoms at an affordable price point.
What we like: Both straps and top padding are removable. Bottoms are both high-waisted and high-cut to elongate legs.
What we dislike: Top runs large compared to the bottoms and can’t be purchased separately.
Honorable mention bikini
Omkagi Bandeau Bikini Swimsuit: available at Amazon
Our take: An affordable bandeau bikini with stylish bottoms.
What we like: On-trend bottoms are both high cut and high-waisted. Material is thick and won’t go see-through when wet. Fits true to size.
What we dislike: Bottoms are cut more like cheeky style and not for more modest consumers.
Ana Sanchez is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.
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