I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: I’m basically a bikini expert. I’ve spent countless years studying and deciphering bikini trends each season, noting the timeless trends and bidding farewell to the temporary types. While my bikini collection is rather, well, extensive, there will always—and I mean always—be room for just one more. Especially when there are so many new trends on the block worth giving a test drive.
This season, I’ve continued my critiques as normal and am pleased to report there are—drum roll, please—15 types of bikinis dominating the scene. From new minimalist shapes and strategic strapping to full-coverage florals and a glimpse of glitz, these bikinis have made it on my radar, even as there is uncertainty about what swim season will look like this year.
As a part of my research, I consulted with some of my go-to swimwear designers that have designed some of the best-selling bikinis to get some insider intel. According to Brittany Kozerski Freeney, owner and designer of Jade Swim, “The Via Top (traditional triangle top) is easily the favorite this season—it’s in almost every single order. Our new sorbet bright colors from the spring collection is another loved trend I’m seeing this season. We usually stick to a neutral palette but decided to add more color variety this season and everyone is loving. Our minimal shapes in these bright colors really pop and I think everyone is looking forward to getting back to the beach and making an appearance when they do.”
Francesca Aiello, founder and creative director of Frankies Bikinis has noticed this season more is more, “I’m noticing our customers are loving girlier fabrications, styles, and prints. Whether that be a baby ruffle on a bottom or a ditzy floral print, it seems to be a big shift from last year’s minimalistic swimwear trend we saw everywhere. Our Colby set in eyelet is one to note that the girls seem to be loving.” Ahead, discover the 15 most popular types of bikinis to sport this season.
New Top in Town
A nod to ’90s minimalism, this new top is about to be crowned the top silhouette of the season. With a nearly backless silhouette and ruched side seams, this top offers a new take on the classic bandeau style. The best part? This silhouette looks good in literally any pattern, fabric, and bottom style.
Polka-Dot Party
One of fashion’s few timeless prints, polka dots are having a moment again. Opt for an enlarged polka-dot bikini this season and search for styles that also have the tie element. Whether it’s the top straps or a belted bottom, bows + polka dots = yes. Her exact bikini is shoppable here.
Shop the matching Bikini Bottoms in Polka Dot ($5).
Summer Sorbet
Let’s be real: We are all in need of some bright, uplifting colors. While neutrals are a staple, err on the side of vibrant, sorbet-colored suits to add a freshness to the classic triangle silhouette. Chrissy Rutherford’s green Triangl bikini is the perfect shade of bright mint.
Shop the matching Bikini Bottoms ($18).
Full-Coverage Florals
As a minimalist, when it comes to my personal style, it may come as a surprise that this is one of the trends I’m most excited to try. The retro silhouette paired with carefree florals makes for the perfect romantic bikini.
A Bit of Bling
We’ve seen the return of ’80s-inspired glitz and glam on the runways, and now we are seeing it in our bikinis. Whether it’s a sequinned number, shinny metallic, or crystal fringe, there’s plenty of glam to go around.
Shop the matching Copacabana High Rise Bikini Bottom ($69).
Sophisticated Silos
This season’s LBB (little black bikini)? A sophisticated two-piece set. Consider this your evening look and style this bikini with gold hoops and pendant necklaces to elevate the set.
Knit Tricks
Crochet, knit, eyelet… pick your stitch. We’ve been seeing the emergence of textures in swimwear over the past few seasons and this year it’s all about the knit. Style Tip: Match your knit bikini to your knit cover-up!
Faded Tie-Dye
There’s no denying tie-dye is has been having a moment, but right now, faded tie-dye is the star of the show. From matching loungewear sets to bikinis, this is the perfect print to introduce to your closet this summer.
Make It Strappy
A polished strappy look, if you will. Make it strappy this season, but pay close attention to the strategic placement of this strapping: The straps cross right at the top of the ribcage and only cross once.
Ribbed the Right Way
Perhaps the cousin to the knit bikini, the ribbed bikini is practically the new normal. This particular fabrication enhances any old boring bikini and elevates any simple silhouette.
Shop the matching Edie Bikini Bottoms ($108).
Ruffled Florals
Though florals will never get old, it is fun to add a little something to the preferred pattern. This season compliment your floral numbers with subtle moments of ruffles, it’s a pairing that works every time.
Loyal to Leopard
Like polka dots, leopard is truly an evergreen print, and no one is mad about it. While remaining loyal to leopard, play around with the different bikini silhouettes this season. Opt for a high-waisted brief or tie-front triangle top. Trust us—leopard will always look good.
Shop the matching Easy Retro High Waist Swim Bottoms ($14).
Sculptural Art
Another one of my favorites this season is the sculpted bra-top bikinis. They are a minimalist’s dream. Remember: Not boring—minimal.
Crop-Top Set
Not feeling a bandeau or triangle top? Introducing the crop-top bikini. This bikini definitely offers more coverage, which serves as the perfect beach-to-bar outfit.
Underwire or Bust
Last but certainly not least (and possibly the hero style of the season), underwire styles are everywhere. Whether you have a bigger bust or smaller, this cut flatters and supports all sizes. A style that once came in limited colors and patterns is now available in every trendy pattern and color imaginable.
Next: This Is Officially the Coolest Country to Buy Your Swimwear From. This post was previously published and has since been updated.
