The bikini may have been a summertime staple for what feels like an eternity, but in truth, this iconic piece has only been around since the 1940s. Amidst a global textile shortage, fashion designers realized they could save on fabric by crafting midriff-baring styles — and the rest, as they say, is history. Nowadays, we wear bikinis for less pragmatic reasons: because we just love the way we feel — and look — in them. Which brings us to a very important point: Every body is a bikini body.
The best bikinis hold up well through dips in the salty ocean and chlorinated swimming pools, hours of sun exposure, and repeated washes. Just as importantly, they make you feel confident, secure, and supported. (Ideally, they won't give you awkward tan lines, either, but that's where your diligent SPF application comes in.)
For other summer swim staples, see our articles on the best one-pieces, best swimsuits on Amazon, and best swimsuits for women overall.
Best overall: KYA Swim Coco Top & Camilia Bottom
I first bought this bikini in 2019 — and it's still in great shape, despite countless wears and washes. But that's not the only reason it's my top favorite. It's also reversible, and since you can mix and match which side you wear the top and bottom on, it's basically four different bikinis in one. This is super helpful when I'm trying to pack light for a vacation.
Did I mention how flattering this swimsuit is? The Coco Bikini Top offers plenty of coverage for my DD-cup bust, while the cross-front straps lend some subtle lift. The high-waisted bottom, meanwhile, boasts a thick waistband for some added shaping and support, and the back side is cut just cheeky enough without making me feel self-conscious.
Note that this bikini also comes in lots of other fun colors, like azalea pink and pear green.
Best budget: Quince Italian V-Neck Bikini Top & Italian High-Leg Bikini Bottom
When it comes to swimwear, you often get what you pay for. With this Quince bikini, though, you can stay within your budget without having to compromise on quality. You don't have to worry about sunscreen or chlorine damaging the fabric or its dye, because the materials it's made with are fade-, snag-, and pill-resistant. The materials — which are 78-90% recycled — also provide UPF 50 sun protection, and are free of toxic PFAs, also known as "forever chemicals."
Both the universally flattering top and bottom are compressive enough to offer some structure and support. Nipple coverage isn't an issue since the bikini top cups are fully lined with removable cups. High-leg bottoms like this are definitely in right now, and it's not hard to see why. They're worn high on the hips, visually elongating your legs while accentuating a smaller part of your waist.
Associate style editor Gabrielle Chase tried it out among the best bikinis for small busts, and this has been her favorite string bikini of the bunch. "It's one of the few that didn't give me awkward gaps, and the moveable triangles let you customize their spacing," she says. 'I also liked that removable pads weren't bulky or misshapen, and its gold accents are a pretty detail."
See our full Quince review for more of our favorite pieces from this budget-friendly brand.
Best convertible: Dippin Daisy's Amalfi Top & Nocturnal Bottom
It doesn't get any more versatile than this bikini. The top can be worn three different ways: tied in the middle for a bandeau, criss-crossed in the front for a halter-esque look, or tied with the straps in the back for a classic scoop neck style.
One thing I appreciate about Dippin Daisy's — aside from the fact that it's a female-founded company — is that many of their bikini separates come in the same colors and patterns, so it's easy to mix and match the tops and bottoms. While there are a number of bottoms that pair well with the Amalfi top, my personal favorite is the mid-rise Nocturnal bottom — which features a flirty high-cut leg and flattering V-shape waistline.
Best for large busts: CUUP The Balconette & High Waist
The best swimsuits for large busts tend to have underwire, which provides extra support and shape — not to mention peace of mind that you're less likely to have a peek-a-boob situation while splashing around in the waves. It's also a good idea to seek out bikini tops that come in bra sizes rather than the standard XS-XXL sizing to ensure adequate coverage.
This bikini from CUUP covers both bases, with a flexible yet sturdy underwire top that gently lifts and separates without any uncomfortable poking or prodding, and size options that range from 30A to 44H. Also worth mentioning? The ultra-comfortable straps are thick enough that they won't dig into your shoulders — and since they're adjustable, you're bound to get a flawless fit.
Like the top, the retro-inspired bottom is chlorine-, sunscreen- and salt water-resistant; and provides UPF 50 protection. Plus, it retains its fade-proof and retains its curve-flattering shape over time.
Best plus-size: Curvy Beach Classic Triangle Top and Side-Tie Bottom
Bikinis are for everyone, but it's up to brands to understand how to make them fit right. Curvy Beach is an expert in the space, with thousands of glowing reviews to prove it.
Style writer Sarah Chiwaya (pictured above) praises this bikini in her guide to the best plus-size swimsuits, calling it "nothing short of life-changing." She says: "I remember agonizing over whether I'd even be able to leave the hotel room in something so skimpy, but as soon as I put it on, I just felt hot. That moment was a big one in my body confidence journey too. There is something about seeing your body in its natural state and feeling great that gave me the courage to keep pushing outside of my comfort zone in fashion and better find my one personal style, both on and off the beach."
Best on Amazon: Shekini Triangle Bikini Set
It can take a little trial and error to find the best swimsuits on Amazon — but every once in a while you stumble across a winner like this one that's budget-friendly and won't go out of style.
The advantage to a triangle top like this is that you can adjust the width and distance of the cups to accommodate your unique bust shape and size. The low-rise bottom can also be tightened or loosened as necessary, which is helpful since this bikini only comes in XS-XXL sizing.
Perhaps the best part about this bikini set is that it comes in a whopping 42 different colors and prints — and given the super reasonable price tag, you just may want to snag more than one.
Best active: Andie Maui Top and Bikini Bottom
"At one point, I forgot I even had this set on under my clothes and I received many compliments on the gorgeous Cherry color. Unlike most string tops, the weight of your chest is held up at your shoulders instead of your neck, so it feels like a cozy bra. It looked more like a sports bra and thus pushed my chest together in a similar fashion, which felt secure but didn't look particularly sexy. It gave some 'uni-boob' vibes, but it wasn't awful — just not like the bikini tops I'm used to.
"I'd wear this supportive, comfortable swimsuit for activities like visiting a water park, surfing, or attending a family function because it feels secure and sensible. But it's not the most exciting-looking set for lounging on the beach with friends or going on vacation with my boyfriend." —Paige DiFiore, lifestyle & entertainment freelance editor
Read our full review of Andie swimwear here to find out which other picks we tested and loved.
Most comfortable: YouSwim The Aplobm
YouSwim makes suits that are one-size-fits-most, so they're made from an incredibly stretchy material that flexes with you. Our team tested their comfy suits for our YouSwim review and the Aplomb was a big favorite. Here's what beauty writer Maiya Pascoushe says about it:
"The Aplomb cut in particular is my favorite style of top because it's a sexy scoop that still has a good amount of coverage. I love the vintage look of the High Waist bottom as well," says Pascouche. "No matter how my body shape fluctuates, this suit fits like a glove. I never feel it digging into my skin while wearing it nor do I notice it falling or drooping throughout the day. It stays molded to your body comfortably all day long without feeling compressive."
Best sustainable: L*Space Eco Chic Repreve Marlee Top & Bardot Bottom
You can enjoy the body of water you're swimming in more when you're in a bikini made with eco-conscious materials. The Eco Repreve material is not only remarkably soft and stretchy, but it's partially crafted from recycled water bottles, recycled nylon, and recycled polyester.
I'm a 34B and the size small top was slightly constricting, so I recommend sizing up in L*Space swimwear. However, I love the Marlee's sweetheart neckline and wide, comfortable straps that don't dig into my skin. Meanwhile, the slightly cheeky bottoms have a stretchy high-rise waistband and a V-shaped front. Together, the ruching details and ribbed texture make this a standout bikini. I recommend the cream colorway as a gift for any brides-to-be in your circle. — Gabrielle Chase, associate style editor
Best high-waisted: Left On Friday Pool Days Top & Hi-Tide Bottom
It's a no-brainer to call this the best high-waisted bikini: it's fade- and snag-resistant, machine washable, and quick-drying; comes in 28 color options; and accommodates all body types. That helps to explain why both the top and bottom are best sellers and have garnered hundreds of five-star reviews.
The scoop front top is snug and compressive while still feeling like a comfy bralette, and the bottoms give ample bum coverage while still letting you show off a hint of cheek.
Something to note: If you're concerned about your headlights showing, consider popping on a pair of nipple covers since the lightweight top doesn't have any padding or removable cups.
Best textured: Gigi C Ruby Top and Melinda Bottom
"I love this textured set from Gigi C. The melon green color is beautiful in person and I've paired it with the Maya Dress for a truly showstopping poolside outfit.
"As someone with a larger bust, I appreciate the underwire in the top. The bottom is also a great high-waisted piece, and I'm looking forward to pairing it with other swim tops for a mix-and-match effect.
"This brand is super trendy right now, and I really love the textured materials that they use. It makes the suits stand out in a sea of smooth lycra." —Samantha Crozier, style editor.
Best trendy: Lulus Wave Maker Black and White Underwire Bikini Top & Parker Black and White High-Waisted Bikini Bottoms
This bikini combines two current swimwear trends: '90s minimalism and bold contrast binding. Plus, thanks to the neutral color palette, it's versatile enough to mix and match with any other black and white tops and bottoms you have.
Aside from the head-turning colorblock effect of this top, other notable features are the supportive underwire cups with removable padding and adjustable straps. The tie-back band also allows you to customize the fit to your needs — which is pretty important given that the band provides the vast majority of the support in any swim top.
As for the bottom, the high-cut silhouette and cheeky coverage flatters any and every figure.
Note that the top runs a tad small — so choose based on your cup size and if you're in between sizes, opt for the size up.
Best crochet: JMP The Label Cabo Top and Bottom
"When you first look at this swimsuit, it's easy to think that it's made of yarn. But the material is actually super stretchy. And it's fantastic. Because of the stretch, the fabric gives your bust a subtle lift when you pull it tight. It's a showstopper on, but this suit isn't for the faint of heart.
"The bottoms don't provide a ton of coverage, and even in a large, the top was a little small for my DD bust. Would I wear it to a family event? Absolutely not. But for a romantic getaway or a bachelorette party? It would be incredible." —Samantha Crozier, style editor.
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