Every Type of Bikini Top & Bottom: The Ultimate List

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Plus expert tips to choose the most flattering bikini for you
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Whether you’re planning a beach vacay, a surf trip, or an afternoon by your backyard pool, you likely want to rock a cute swimsuit or bikini that works for your body, activity level, and tanning goals. That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate, sunsoaked guide to every type of bikini you could possibly want to wear! From different types of bikini sets to different styles of tops and bottoms (that you can mix and match!), you’re sure to find your perfectly suited suit through this list. Plus, we’ve included advice from professional stylists on how to find the best bikini for you .

What are the different types of bikini swimsuits?

The main types of bikinis include classic sets, string bikinis, tankinis, bandeaukinis, skirtinis, microkinis, trikinis, and sling bikinis. You can also mix and match different bikini top and bottom styles for a new look—e.g., triangle top + brief bottom, underwire top + skirt bottom, halter top + cheeky bottom, etc.

Section 1 of 5:

Different Types of Bikinis

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  1. 1
    String Bikini String bikinis have triangle-shaped fabric pieces to cover the wearer’s top and bottom. These pieces of fabric are held together by thin strings or ties (rather than thick straps or bands) that wrap around the body. String bikinis have minimal coverage and offer a revealing (but highly adjustable!) fit. Their overall look is also very sleek, chic, and minimalistic, making them popular for sunbathing and other poolside activities.

    Meet the wikiHow Experts

    Sarah McDonald is a certified stylist and image consultant who helps clients feel confident by guiding them on how to dress for their body type, and lifestyle.

    Hannah Park is a professional stylist and personal shopper with specialized experience in e-comm styling, celebrity styling, and personal styling.

    Erin Micklow is a professional stylist and image consultant who’s worked in the acting, beauty, and style industries for over a decade.

    Neepa Sikdar is a personal stylist with over 18 years of fashion experience who coaches women on personal style.

    Jordan Stolch is an image consultant and style advisor with over a decade of experience helping people eliminate insecurities and build their style.

  2. 2
    Tankini Tankinis combine a tank top-style swim top with classic bikini bottoms (the name “tankini” is made from combining the terms “tank top” and “bikini” together). Basically, a tankini is a two-piece swimsuit with the look and feel of a one-piece! You get a little more coverage while still being able to mix and match bottoms and create the cute, seaside look of your dreams. [1]
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  3. 3
    Bandeaukini Bandeaukinis combine a bandeau-style bikini top with any style of swimsuit bottom. The bandeau top itself looks like a tube top-style “band” around the chest, and it's often worn strapless (although it may come with optional, detachable straps). These types of bikinis are great for sunbathing, in particular, since they don’t create any tan lines. [2]
  4. 4
    Skirtini A skirtini combines a bikini top with a swim skirt bottom. The bikini top can be any style—like a classic triangle top or tankini. However, the defining part is the skirted bottom, which is usually characterized by a brief, short, or other bikini bottom that’s attached to an overlaid skirt. The skirtini is popular with swimmers who want more coverage and comfort while still wearing a cute and fashionable style. [3]
  5. 5
    Microkini Microkinis (or micro bikinis) are super minimalist bikinis that just cover the private parts of the wearer. The chest sections are usually only big enough to cover the nipple, while the bottoms are similar to a G-string, with a string on the rear and a small scrap of fabric to cover the genitals on the front. Many celebrities have been spotted wearing microkinis, including Kim Kardashian and Dua Lipa , but they’re not considered very practical for everyday wear. In some areas, they may even be restricted for wear or considered to be indecent exposure. [4]
  6. 6
    Trikini Trikinis are a versatile swimsuit type that includes three separate pieces. Usually, this includes a bikini top, a bikini bottom, and a third, stylish accessory piece. This third piece may be a tank top, sarong, skirt, cover-up, or even a face mask! However, the three pieces must always match or coordinate to count as a “trikini.” In other cases, however, the third element may be a piece of fabric that connects the bikini top and bottom to create a faux two-piece suit. [5]
  7. 7
    Sling Bikini A sling bikini (or “suspender” bikini) has a bikini bottom with straps that extend upwards over the shoulder. This suit, which is technically a one-piece, has very little fabric and usually leaves the torso mostly uncovered. The sling bikini is similar to the monokini, but monokinis usually provide more coverage and support. [6]
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Section 2 of 5:

Types of Bikini Tops

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  1. 1
    Triangle The classic triangle bikini top is made up of two triangles and straps. The triangles cover up the chest, while the straps or strings connect the triangles and secure them to the body. This is a classic, beloved shape for hanging out and tanning on the beach—but it doesn’t offer much support, so be cautious if you’re planning to wear it while frolicking in the ocean or pool! [7]
  2. 2
    Halter The halter neck bikini top is a universally flattering shape made of two elongated triangles of fabric that tie together behind the neck. The halter is fairly supportive for a bikini top, but it’s also flirty, sexy, and stylish. [8]
  3. 3
    Bandeau As the name implies, a bandeau bikini top forms a “band” around your chest. Bandeau tops are usually strapless, but they come with detachable shoulder straps that you can remove or add on, depending on how much support you want. Bandeau bikinis are especially useful when you want a sunny glow with zero strappy tan lines! [9]
  4. 4
    Underwire Underwire bikini tops are a sort of bra-bikini hybrid. An underwire top will have a wire structure sewn into it to run under the chest, and there may also be built-in, shaped bra cups. This type of bikini top offers the most chest support, so it's usually preferred by people with larger bust sizes. [10]
  5. 5
    Push-Up Just like a push-up bra, a push-up bikini top has padded cups to “push up” the bust. Push-up bikinis are relatively supportive, and they also lift up your cleavage and make your chest look curvier and more prominent. [11]
  6. 6
    Balconette Balconette bikinis are another “bra-like” swimsuit style that’s modeled after, you guessed it, the balconette bra! If you don’t know what a balconette bra is, it’s a type of top with a low, horizontal neckline and wide-set straps that lift and support the breasts into a rounded, natural shape. The idea is to make the bikini act as a “balcony” and lift the bust, giving off the same look that a corset top might.
  7. 7
    Plunge A plunge bikini top has a deep, V-shaped neckline that accentuates the chest. However, this style is actually more supportive than it might look, so it’s a good option for someone who wants a sensual look while still feeling secure. [12]
  8. 8
    Scoop Scoop bikini tops are like cropped tank tops with scoop necklines. Or, in other words, the neckline is deep, wide, and circular—like the edge of a spoon. The scoopneck is considered to be universally flattering, as it shows a bit of skin while still keeping things secure and comfy. [13]
  9. 9
    Tankini A tankini top is a bikini top in the style of a tank top. Tankinis are often preferred for comfort and practicality—especially when you actually want to swim in your swimsuit! They also provide a bit more coverage for anyone who might want it. [14]
  10. 10
    Longline Longline bikinis extend lower down the torso—more so than a classic bikini, but not as far as a tankini. The bottom hem of the top usually hits around the natural waist, while the chest area can be made in pretty much any style, e.g., triangle, underwire, halter, etc. This combo creates a cute, softened, comfy, and more supportive style. [15]
  11. 11
    Off-Shoulder Rather than traditional over-the-shoulder straps, off-shoulder bikini tops have some sort of sleeve that encircles or dangles over the side of the arm. These off-the-shoulder sleeves are often ruffled, but they can really be made in any practical style. They often give off a feminine, romantic, delicate, and trendy look—however, off-the-shoulder tops are not the most supportive, making them more suited for restful days by the pool.
  12. 12
    One-Shoulder One-shoulder tops are bold and edgy, with just one thick shoulder strap instead of the traditional two. The asymmetry of the one-shoulder bikini is very chic while still providing a decent amount of support. They can also come in a variety of styles—from sleek and athletic to ruffled and dramatic. [16]
  13. 13
    High-Neck High-neck bikini tops can come in a variety of styles, but the standard version is a cropped, tank top-style top with a high neck. The neck of the top usually comes to just above your collarbones. High-neck bikinis tend to look sportier, and they’re better suited for high-energy activities and movement by the ocean or pool. [17]
  14. 14
    Wrap Wrap bikini tops wrap around the body with two opposing pieces of fabric that cross and tie together around the torso. This makes for a super customizable fit, and it’s also very flattering for anyone who wants to accentuate their waistline and curves.
  15. 15
    Rash Guard A rash guard is a full coverage swimwear top with long sleeves and a full length—similar to your average long-sleeve shirt. Rash guards are made out of special swimwear material to provide sun protection, abrasion resistance, and a flexible fit. They’re usually worn by people who are sensitive to sun damage, or by surfers, snorkelers, and athletic swimmers.
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Section 3 of 5:

Types of Bikini Bottoms

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  1. 1
    Brief The brief is probably what you think of when you imagine a classic bikini bottom. It has moderate coverage, with the fabric resting securely on the sides of the hips. They provide a comfortable, supportive, and cute fit for both restful and high-activity beach days. [18]
  2. 2
    Hipster Similar to the hipster underwear style, hipster bikini bottoms are fairly comfortable and supportive with a high level of coverage. They’re cut wide across the leg, so they cover up your bottom and will likely stay in place if you’re moving around a lot. [19]
  3. 3
    Cheeky Cheeky bottoms are the best of both worlds when it comes to showing off your beach bum! The cut of the bottoms is shaped like a “V,” so they show off a little more cheek than the hipster bottom and can elongate the look of the legs. However, they aren’t as revealing as other bikini bottom options, like the thong or Brazilian. [20]
  4. 4
    Thong The thong bikini provides very little coverage, with a small patch of fabric on the front and a narrow strip on the rear. This fearless style is great for sunbathing and tanning, since it’ll ensure that you have almost no tan lines. However, it’s unlikely to stay in place for ocean swimming or high-energy water sports. [21]
  5. 5
    Brazilian Brazilian bikini bottoms are elegant and fearless—but they don’t have a whole lot of coverage or support! The bottom has a thin strip of coverage in the back, like a thong, but the leg holes are very high-cut. This gives off a lengthening and sleek look that accentuates the wearer’s natural curves. [22]
  6. 6
    Boyshort Boyshort bikini bottoms are teeny-tiny swim shorts that fit like full-coverage underwear. They fit snug against the skin, but they extend down onto the leg—like mini shorts! Boyshorts are popular for having a full-coverage, flexible, and secure feel while maintaining a cute and sporty look. [23]
  7. 7
    Swim shorts Swim shorts are shorts that are made out of swimsuit material to give them greater absorbency and maneuvering underwater. They’re best for people who want a little more coverage, or who are doing water sports like waterskiing or surfboarding. But, they can also look super cute, and often come in fun patterns to mix and match with bikini tops! [24]
  8. 8
    Skirt A swim skirt combines a traditional bikini bottom with an overlaid mini skirt. This offers a bit of extra coverage and security, while looking chic and fashionable. Skirted swimsuit bottoms also come in a variety of styles, from sleek and athletic options to ruffled, feminine styles. [25]
  9. 9
    High-Waisted Even though the classic bikini features a lower waist, high-waisted styles are becoming more and more popular. They’re considered to be universally flattering—since they accentuate the waist—and very trendy. Plus, they’re more comfortable and practical than a low waist! [26]
  10. 10
    High-Cut High-cut bikini bottoms are cut higher on the leg-hole so that the bottom edge sits on (or even above) the natural hip bone. This style, which is popular now but was especially trendy in the ‘80s, is meant to elongate and slim the look of the legs. They’re often paired with a high- or mid-rise waist. [27]
  11. 11
    Side-Tie This style of bikini bottom has straps on the side that can be tied together to secure the bikini in place. The side-tie style also makes it easy to adjust the size and fit of the bottoms. Side-tie bottoms are a great choice for tanning, since there’s less fabric at the sides and the bikini can be easily undone and subtly removed, if desired. [28]
  12. 12
    Fold-Over A pair of fold-over bottoms has a strip of fabric that’s able to be folded over at the waist. However, you can also leave it unfolded, making this style very versatile; if you want more coverage, roll it up! If you want less coverage, roll it down!
  13. 13
    Ruched A ruched bikini bottom has the classic shape with a strip of gathered fabric at the back. This creates a contoured appearance around the butt, which can emphasize curves and draw attention to that part of the body.
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Section 4 of 5:

How to Choose the Right Bikini for You

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  1. 1
    Consider how much coverage you want on your top and bottom. “Think about how much coverage you want on your bikini,” says personal stylist Neepa Sikdar. “So, if you’re looking for tops, there’s the bandeau or string bikini for lower coverage, and the tankini or sports bra for higher coverage." [29] Sikdar recommends looking at bottoms next. If you want a little more coverage, try a high-waisted or boyshort style. [30]
  2. 2
    Choose a bikini top that gives the right shape and support for your bust. “If you have a smaller chest,” suggests professional stylist Hannah Park, “[try] an off-the-shoulder, muscly top. It gives you the illusion that your breasts are a little bit bigger.” [31] On the flip side, if you have a big bust, shares professional stylist Erin Micklow, “look for swimsuits with an underwire-type top to provide maximum support. Halter tops with thicker straps could also be a great option.” [32]
    • “Also, if you have a larger chest,” adds Sikdar, “you can look for bikini tops by bra size. That’s actually recommended if you have a larger chest because then you know it will fit you correctly.” [33]
  3. 3
    Try a high-waisted bottom for a universally flattering fit. Unless you know that you don’t like the way a high waist looks on you, it’s the best bikini bottom option when you’re not sure what you want. “The most flattering [style] for a lot of women is the high-waisted bottom,” affirms Park. “It accentuates the tiniest part of your waist and kind of slims your stomach down.” [34] Certified stylist and image consultant Sarah McDonald agrees with this advice, sharing that “high-waisted is by far the most flattering if you’re wanting to do a two-piece…you have the bottom that’s covering up any areas you feel insecure about on your stomach.” [35]
  4. 4
    Wear a darker top or bottom for a slimmer look in that area. If you want to look slimmer in one area of your body, “whether that’s your top half or bottom half, wear that in a darker color,” advises Sikdar. “If you want to appear curvier, like if you were to have a curvier chest, then go for lighter colors on top.” [37]
  5. 5
    Feel free to mix and match tops and bottoms for your best style and fit. “The great thing about bikinis is that you can mix and match,” says Sikdar. “So, if you’re shopping online, definitely buy two sizes, because you really don’t know how that bikini is going to fit. And it’s totally normal to have two different sizes between our top and bottom…Then, once you try [the bikini] on, walk around, jump around, and move around to make sure everything stays in place.” [38]
  6. 6
    Opt for a high-quality swimsuit with good construction and fabrication. “Quality is the number one thing for getting a flattering swimsuit,” says McDonald. “Suits that have really nice fabrics are going to have structure, they’re going to be constructed well, and they’re going to have lots of elasticity. And that’s huge, so you can’t really skimp on cost when it comes to finding a flattering swimsuit.” [39]
  7. 7
    Wear something that makes you feel confident and beautiful. “The number one key for feeling confident anywhere, and especially at a pool party, is wearing something that’s authentically you,” asserts image consultant and style advisor Jordan Stolch. “So, if you feel comfortable rocking your two-piece bikini, wear that because your confidence is going to shine through whatever’s most authentic to you.” [40] If you love a certain swimsuit, don’t worry if it’s not traditionally “flattering” by societal standards. A truly flattering outfit will make you feel confident , comfortable, and authentic—not just slimmer.
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Section 5 of 5:

Other Popular Types of Swimsuits

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  1. While bikinis are a classic for a reason, they definitely aren’t the only type of swimsuit available! If you’re looking for something a little different, here are some other swimwear options to check out:
    • One-Piece : Unlike a two-piece bikini, one-piece swimsuits use one piece of fabric to cover the entire body and provide more coverage. Common styles of one-pieces include plunge, strapless, halter, and cut-out suits. [41]
    • Monokini : Monokinis toe the line between one-pieces and bikinis. They’re technically one-pieces, but they feature heavy cut-outs on the sides or front that create the illusion of a two-piece suit. [42]
    • Swim Dress : Swim dresses are basically short, movement-friendly dresses that are made out of a swimsuit material. Often, this includes a fitted bodice with built-in support that’s combined with a skirt overlay to cover the hips and thighs. [43]
    • Wetsuit : Wetsuits are full-body swimming garments made out of special materials to provide thermal insulation in cold water. In general, they’re exclusively used for water sports and activities like surfing, diving, snorkeling, and swimming. [44]

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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.vox.com/the-goods/2019/5/20/18632476/tankini-swimsuits-history-modesty-bikini-top-rash-guard
      2. ↑ https://www.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/fashion/best-swimsuits-for-women-every-body-type
      3. ↑ https://www.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/reviews/best-tummy-control-swimsuits
      4. ↑ https://swimsuit.si.com/fashion/bikini-styles-explained-classic-cuts-trendy-designs
      5. ↑ https://www.nbcsandiego.com/in-your-neighborhood/meet-the-trikini-a-bikini-with-a-matching-face-mask/2331003/
      6. ↑ https://web.archive.org/web/20080907051823/http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/History-of-Swimsuits/461234
      7. ↑ https://swimsuit.si.com/fashion/bikini-styles-explained-classic-cuts-trendy-designs
      8. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-swimsuits
      9. ↑ https://swimsuit.si.com/fashion/bikini-styles-explained-classic-cuts-trendy-designs
      1. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/fashion/g26518115/swimsuit-types-styles/
      2. ↑ https://swimsuit.si.com/fashion/bikini-styles-explained-classic-cuts-trendy-designs
      3. ↑ https://www.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/fashion/best-swimsuits-for-women-every-body-type
      4. ↑ https://www.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/fashion/best-swimsuits-for-women-every-body-type
      5. ↑ https://www.vox.com/the-goods/2019/5/20/18632476/tankini-swimsuits-history-modesty-bikini-top-rash-guard
      6. ↑ https://swimsuit.si.com/fashion/bikini-styles-explained-classic-cuts-trendy-designs
      7. ↑ https://swimsuit.si.com/fashion/bikini-styles-explained-classic-cuts-trendy-designs
      8. ↑ https://swimsuit.si.com/fashion/bikini-styles-explained-classic-cuts-trendy-designs
      9. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-swimsuits
      10. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/fashion/style/a10221726/bikini-bottom-style-guide/
      11. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-swimsuits
      12. ↑ https://swimsuit.si.com/fashion/bikini-styles-explained-classic-cuts-trendy-designs
      13. ↑ https://swimsuit.si.com/fashion/bikini-styles-explained-classic-cuts-trendy-designs
      14. ↑ https://swimsuit.si.com/fashion/bikini-styles-explained-classic-cuts-trendy-designs
      15. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-swimsuits
      16. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/fashion/style/a10221726/bikini-bottom-style-guide/
      17. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/fashion/g26518115/swimsuit-types-styles/
      18. ↑ https://swimsuit.si.com/fashion/bikini-styles-explained-classic-cuts-trendy-designs
      19. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/fashion/style/a10221726/bikini-bottom-style-guide/
      20. ↑ Neepa Sikdar. Personal Stylist. Expert Interview
      21. ↑ Neepa Sikdar. Personal Stylist. Expert Interview
      22. ↑ Hannah Park. Professional Stylist. Expert Interview
      23. ↑ Erin Micklow. Professional Stylist. Expert Interview
      24. ↑ Neepa Sikdar. Personal Stylist. Expert Interview
      25. ↑ Hannah Park. Professional Stylist. Expert Interview
      26. ↑ Sarah McDonald. Certified Stylist & Image Consultant. Expert Interview
      27. ↑ Sarah McDonald. Certified Stylist & Image Consultant. Expert Interview
      28. ↑ Neepa Sikdar. Personal Stylist. Expert Interview
      29. ↑ Neepa Sikdar. Personal Stylist. Expert Interview
      30. ↑ Sarah McDonald. Certified Stylist & Image Consultant. Expert Interview
      31. ↑ Jordan Stolch. Image Consultant & Style Advisor. Expert Interview
      32. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/clothing/best-swimsuits/g64540666/best-one-piece-bathing-suits/
      33. ↑ https://knix.com/blogs/resources/what-is-a-monokini-swimsuit
      34. ↑ https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/swim-dress
      35. ↑ https://www.usms.org/fitness-and-training/articles-and-videos/articles/at-what-water-temperature-do-i-need-a-wetsuit

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