The second it hits 80 degrees in New York City, I can't stop thinking about running to the nearest pool or beach and donning my favorite swimsuit. But when I'm daydreaming about this scenario, what never crosses my mind is just how hard finding a swimsuit is, especially when it's a bikini. There's nothing worse than ordering a bikini from a swimwear brand only to find that the sizes are totally wrong and you feel majorly uncomfortable. Yikes. With a few trips to the beach planned for this summer, though, it's a process I can't escape, so I've made it my personal mission to uncover the best bikinis on the market.
As you might've guessed, I'm a pretty picky shopper when it comes to bikinis. The perfect bikini has to fit just right (a massive undertaking on its own), hold up well for multiple seasons, and have a style that pairs well with my summer glow. But, of course, with different body types and personal styles, the "perfect" bikini is going to mean something different for everyone. So to guide me in my search, I've enlisted the help of swimwear experts—Jessica Anderson, founder of 93 Play Street and Ninety Third Avenue, and Laura Low Ah Kee, co-founder of Left on Friday—for their pro tips to bikini shopping.
With their expert knowledge in mind, I've rounded up our favorite bikini picks in terms of coverage, quality materials, style options, size range, and support. On this list, you'll find a ton of different options to suit your bikini needs, whether you have a large bust, love minimal (or maximum!) coverage, or even if you prefer affordable swimsuits on Amazon. Soon, you'll be waving goodbye to all of your bikini woes.
What to Look For in a Bikini
- Fit
The key to the best bikini for you is going to be finding a bikini that fits you well. A well-fitting bikini doesn't dig into your skin, feels comfortable enough to wear for hours on end, and has the right amount of coverage to suit your preference. Kee recommends shopping using your measurements (i.e. ribcage, full bust, waist, hip, torso, and cup size) rather than your clothing size to ensure a better fit.
And because we all have different body types, Anderson shared a few fit recommendations for specific shapes, below.
Smaller busts: Look for tops with built-in padding or a triangle top with crisscross straps for a cleavage boost.
Larger busts: Opt for tops with thick straps and wide vertical coverage.
Hourglass or curvy body shape: To make your waist look cinched and elongate your legs, look for ultra high-waisted bottoms that sit on the smallest part of your waist or low-rise bottoms that have a V-cut.
Plus-size: If you prefer more coverage, look for tops with thick straps and elastic straps for added support. If you prefer less coverage, go with a triangle or halter top with adjustable ties and thick straps for lift.
Postpartum: Look for tops that tie in the back to accommodate size fluctuation.
- Materials
The material of your bikini is going to play a huge role in its fit, says Anderson. "Look for double-lined swimwear with the same material on the outside of the suit as on the lining on the inside," she advises. "Fast fashion uses thin mesh lining that can be less flattering on the body and irritating to sensitive skin."
Additionally, Kee says to consider the function of your bikini. For example, if you're heading to the pool or soaking up the sun, you'll want to look for a bikini that's made from chlorine and UV-resistant fabric. Or maybe you're going to the beach for a game of sand volleyball, in which case you'll need a bikini that's supportive and can handle the sand. Fabrics like elastane and polyester are popular in swimwear because of their comfortable stretch and durability.
- Adjustability
Finally, Anderson recommends looking for a bikini that's easily adjustable. "Adjustability in swimwear is a must as it is natural for a woman's body to fluctuate in size based on her cycle—90 percent of the designs we have for both Ninety Third Avenue and 93 Play Street have sliders on the straps, ties, and hook closures with multiple options," she explains. Looking for adjustable features will ensure your bikini fits and feels great the entire season.
Best Bikinis
- Best Bikini Overall: Monday Swimwear Tulum Top
- Best Budget Bikini: CUPSHE High Waisted V Neck Twist Front Bathing Suit
- Best Splurgeworthy Bikini: Oséree Gem Crystal-Embellished Halterneck Bikini
- Best Plus-Size Bikini: Eloquii High Waisted Bikini Bottom with Rosette
- Best Bikini for Bigger Busts: Form and Fold The Triangle Recycled Underwired Bikini Top
- Best Bikini for Smaller Busts: Zuvebamyo Women Two Piece Bikini Swimsuit
- Best Bikini for Comfort: Left On Friday Hi Hi Bikini Bottoms
"I have a larger cup size and a small back, so It's been really difficult for me to find bikini tops—triangle tops in particular—that don't make me feel like I'm spilling out or running the risk of a wardrobe malfunction. This one from Monday Swimwear has changed all that. It has thicker tie straps that don't come undone with the slightest movement and has adjustable little knots on the actual triangle part so I can adjust how big or small I want it to be. The material is also pretty supportive for a bikini top, so I get some lift and smoothing. Basically, it's perfect. I want it in every color." — Julia Marzovilla, E-Commerce Editor
Don't sleep on Amazon for quality swimwear. This set from Cupshe is the Number #1 Best-Seller on the retailer in bikinis and it's not too hard to see why. First off, the twist-front design and high-waisted bottoms are objectively flattering, no matter your body shape. It also comes in a ton of fun colors and prints—29 to be exact! You can also adjust the shoulder straps and easily take out the top's padding if you prefer. Truly not a bad option if you're on a budget.
Customer review: "Very flattering suit. I get tons of compliments when I wear these bikinis (I have four). They fit securely and stay in place, and cover just the right amount. I am 5’4” 135, 34B, with a generous bootie, and the medium is a perfect fit." — Amazon
I've never really enjoyed being in a swimsuit. Most of the time, I find myself feeling like a busted can of biscuits because it's nearly impossible to find bottoms that don't dig into my hips. But then I met the active swimwear brand Left On Friday and all of my bikini woes have disappeared. The brand uses a buttery-smooth fabric in all of its pieces that feel just like your favorite activewear, but better. Bikini tops and bottoms are compressive enough to keep you in, but still so comfy, you practically feel naked. These particular bottoms are a favorite of mine for their extra-flattering high-waist and high-leg cut.
Customer review: "I am so happy to have found LOF! These bottoms are the most comfortable I have ever had! Modest enough to not feel too exposed, but cheeky enough to feel sexy! I have them in several colors and I will be a forever customer!" — Left On Friday
Year after year, I am always turning to Aerie for great-fitting, affordable swimsuits. I especially love the brand's high-waisted high-cut bottoms because they make your legs look a mile long. I swear this fit would look good on every body shape as they offer just the right amount of coverage— not too cheeky, but not too covered. While all three of the neon-bright colors will go perfectly with your summer tan, might I suggest opting for this hot pink shade? It is the summer of Barbiecore pink, after all.
Customer review: "I was looking for some bikinis with more coverage and high waisted - this is it!!! Despite being “cheeky” it gives good coverage on the bum and the cut is so flattering, even if you’re curvy or have a stomach. I got it in purple and pink. Highly recommend! The fabric is SO soft. True to size." — Aerie
For plus-size babes, Eloquii has got you covered. The brand makes swimwear for sizes 14 through 32 that is chic, well-fitting, and affordable. Pieces come separately so you can mix and match sizes for your perfect fit. Everyone needs a classic black bikini in their wardrobe and these bottoms particularly caught my eye. The high-waisted, high-leg fit could not be more flattering and the fixed rosette detail makes this swimsuit especially of the moment.
As a big-busted lady myself, I know the struggle is so real when it comes to finding a well-supportive bikini top. Thankfully, Form and Fold has nailed swimsuits for big busts to a T. The brand specializes in swimwear for cup sizes D through G so you know you're in good hands. This top in particular was made for those that have been let down by traditional triangle tops in the past. Gone are the painful halter ties and too-thin back straps. Instead, you get flexible underwire, adjustable straps and backband, and powermesh cups that actually hold you in.
Customer review: "This top fit so so so well! I felt supported, hugged in all the right places and the fabric was so soft and buttery. The straps are also super comfy and don’t dig into my skin at all. The clasp at the back is really easy to do up and undo and overall I’m really satisfied with it. Definitely a winner if you’re a DD" — Form and Fold
For the girls with smaller busts, a little extra padding won't hurt. In fact, it's actually an ideal pick for extra support and a more flattering shape, just as Anderson suggested. This top also has underwire for added lift and a three-hook back closure for a more comfortable fit. While I'm personally a huge fan of the high-waisted bikini, H&M also offers classic bikini bottoms to match perfectly with this top. All in all, this is a great option if you have a smaller bust or on a budget.
Customer review: "Incredible fit. Honestly, the most flattering I've ever had. So glad I took the chance on this one." — H&M
"When it comes to bikinis, I look for two things: bra-like support with my top and cinched-in, high-waisted bottoms. And lucky for me: this Jade Swim set has both! The lined, underwire cups ensure my chest remains secure and supported throughout my beach day activities (I'm a swimmer, not a lay-on-the-sand-for-hours type of gal), and the bottoms offer the perfect amount of coverage for my comfort level. And I can say from personal experience that the metallic fabric glows beautifully in the sunlight." — Emma Childs, Style Editor
J.Crew brought back this swim top from the '90s and the people are rejoicing! This classic-style bikini top fits and supports just like your favorite bra with underwire and medium coverage. It even comes in the same sizes as your bra, from 32A to 42D, and sizes for DD cups. You can feel good about buying this bikini, too, as it's made from recycled materials. Take your pick from eight colors and prints then rest easy knowing your girls are well-supported.
Customer review: "It's hard to find a top that supports without a bunch of padding. This top looks great on and provides ample support without the padding. It is true to size and fits like a comfortable bra." — J.Crew
When I saw this bikini on sale at Net-a-Porter, my jaw actually dropped. Oséree is known for their ultra-glamorous swimwear, which typically includes glittery fabrics, luxe details, and plenty of rhinestones, and this halterneck set is no different. Complete with rows of glistening crystals on shiny, smooth fabric, this is the ideal bikini to pack along to a pool party, bachelorette trip, or anywhere you need to turn up the notch on your beach look. Be sure to look at the brown and rainbow crystal colorway, which is just as stunning.
"A magenta swimsuit is iconic in any era, but this one ups the ante a notch. On a warm summer day, I love that I can take this top from the beach to the street. The ruffles add extra flair to any skirt, shorts or linen pants. Best of all, there aren’t any cups, which is uber comfortable when relaxing poolside." — Deena Campbell, Beauty Director
Is this not the most adorable bikini you have ever seen? This ruffle top, complete with the matching medium-coverage bottoms, takes the trendy cottagecore style to the beach and I'm obsessed. The micro string straps add a touch more support but are also just another one of the cute details on this suit. What I really love about this swimsuit, though, is that it (along with every Zonarch swim piece) is entirely made from recycled and sustainable fabrics. A swimsuit this cute that you can feel good about buying is a win-win in my book.
Follow Suit has some adorable retro prints that are sure to garner attention. From this cool psychedelic print to ditsy florals, I can guarantee you'll stand out in these bikinis. The Emily Top will keep you supported with underwire and an adjustable tie-front neckline (inspired by '90s mini dresses, by the way). Plus, the shoulder and bust straps are fully adjustable, too, so you can perfect your fit. Complete your look with the matching high-waisted bottoms.
For someone who prefers a bit more coverage at the beach, but still wants to show a little something, something, opt for a tankini. The top of this set fits just like a cropped tank while the bottoms are high-waisted with full coverage. This bikini was basically designed for an ultra-flattering look with side ruching and tummy-control bottoms. This set even allows you to mix and match sizes (which go up to size 28) for the tops and bottoms, a huge win when it comes to shopping for bikinis.
Customer review: "I love the scrunch ties for a better fit! I will get a lot of wear out of these mixing and matching! I have a pool and go to the beach a lot and I don't buy anywhere else because these suits are made to last!" — Swimsuits for All
Triangle bikinis are a swimwear staple and another great option for those with smaller busts, just like Anderson mentioned. With the tie straps, you can easily tighten and customize your fit and switch up your styles. Cross the shoulder straps in the front for a halter look and a boost of cleavage or flip the whole top upside down as the TikTok girlies do. One added bonus with this Amazon bikini is that it comes as a set and has over 30 colors and prints to choose from. Plus, the bottoms have a scrunch on the behind for a lifted look.
Customer review: Sizing was accurate and the bottoms are adjustable which I was happy about. The top stays pretty secure too, ordering in another color for sure! — Amazon