If you’re anything like the majority of the population, you’ll agree that shopping for swimwear is rarely an enjoyable process. Not only are there countless brands to choose from, but it seems the task of balancing style with comfort, quality and price is near impossible. Especially when you’re shopping online, there’s the added hassle of sizing uncertainty, the quality of the swimwear material and how the swimsuit actually looks on your body.
Fortunately, we’ve enlisted the help of experts — professional stylists to international models and avid swimmers — to bring you the best of the best. From brands that specialize in bikinis for those with bigger busts to fashion-forward men’s swim trunks and the swimwear brands that are justifiably Instagram famous, these are the brands everyone (us included) will be shopping this summer.
Best bikini brands
Monday Swimwear
We all know fit is probably the biggest challenge when it comes to swimwear, and that’s something Monday Swimwear founders Natasha Oakley and Devin Brugman were acutely aware of when they decided to start their own brand. Instead of simply scaling the brand’s various sizes up from a small — the industry standard — Monday Swimwear’s bikini tops are fitted to different cup sizes and manufactured based on those measurements. This way, no matter your size, you’re getting a comfortable and flattering fit each and every time. And since its start in 2014, Monday Swimwear has quickly become the It Girl swimwear brand of choice, with its chic and stylish pieces being pretty much unavoidable (in the very best way possible) across social media.
This stunning one piece actually doubles as a bodysuit, making it a perfect and versatile piece to pack in your beach bag or plan your next poolside OOTD around. The scoop neckline paired with the bust support is both feminine, supportive and flattering.
“I grew up swimming competitively and am very picky with my swimsuits,” says NYC-based arts professional Cheyenne King-Bails. While this isn’t something she’d recommend for competitive swimming, it’s a favorite for a beach or by-the-water day.
Designed to minimize your tan lines, this super-chic bikini top features thin adjustable ties and underwire cups for just enough coverage and support, and not a whole lot more.
Hunza G
Despite being around for decades, Hunza G continues to bring a fashion-forward twist to timeless swimwear styles. Very much a destination for those in search of swimwear that’s as stylish as anything else in their wardrobe, the brand — which is a carbon-neutral company — prioritizes sustainability in its design and production processes. For example, its signature crinkle fabric is made without deadstock fabric or wastage. “I discovered Hunza G when I was pregnant,” says stylist and creative director Djuna Bel. “And loved the idea of a suit that could grow with me and maintain its shape postpartum.”
Stylist Catherine Bibeau is also a fan of the brand’s one-size-fits-all approach to sizing, which they explain can comfortably fit those between a US size 2 and size 12. This is possible thanks to a unique, flexible fabric that works to simultaneously sculpt and support a range of body sizes and shapes.
Bel recommends this chic set “for my fellow smaller-chested friends.” The classic bandeau style is an absolute dream when it comes to tanning or just looking chic poolside.
One of Bel’s favorite parts about Hunza G’s swimwear is how its “universally well fitting.” This set offers a bit more support and coverage for a look that’s both stylish and elegant.
“I love the Nicole for a playful look,” Bel says. The glittery, coordinating heart-shaped details on the bikini top and bottom are absolutely irresistible.
RAQ
It’s an inarguable truth that finding comfortable and supportive swimwear is tougher for those with larger busts — and that’s where RAQ comes in. The Melbourne-based brand, recommended by King-Bails, was started by sisters Sophia and Nina Argy on a mission to create the product they wanted to see in the world: a simple yet supportive top that, like a bra, was available in different cup and band sizes. Specially designed for D through J cups, RAQ now offers 66 different sizes across its bikini tops, each of which features adjustable straps and a firm band with three different size options.
The brand’s bestseller, this top can be worn multiple ways depending on how you tie the adjustable shoulder straps through the loops on the inside of the bikini top band.
If you love a cheeky bikini bottom, these are absolutely adorable — shoutout to the contrast detailing. The side ties don’t just look cute, they’re adjustable so you can pull them as tight or as loose as you need for your perfect fit.
This fully-lined piece performs equally well as a bikini top and a chic crop top, making it perfect for warm-weather vacations or excursions that involve time spent on both the land and sea.
ViX Paula Hermanny
Paula Hermanny’s line of beach swimwear is heavily inspired by her childhood in Brazil, and she’s been bringing the bright colors, unique handcrafted detailing and stunning prints of her home country to the US for over 20 years. Despite countless swimwear brands coming out with new pieces every year, personal stylist Vanessa Valiente deems ViX as one of her go-tos. “I always feel secure yet sexy in their suits,” she says. According to the stylist, the bikini tops help to shape your curves while keeping the girls in place and the bottoms don’t cut into your hips, “which is a massive issue with most style-forward swimsuits.” Valiente adds that the flattering array of colors and prints is a plus too.
One of Valiente’s picks, this gorgeous bikini set is made from the brand’s exclusive firenze fabric, which has a crepe-like finish. The handmade knot detailing on the sides adds a fun nautical touch.
Grab the matching bottoms here.
Valiente recommends this triangle-style top, which you have the option to purchase alongside a matching bottom in one of three different cuts. It’s a perfect, slightly more fun take on your classic bikini, thanks to the tasteful 24-karat-gold-plated accents.
Grab the matching bottoms here.
For those who prefer an underwire bikini top, this stunner features a beautifully delicate laser-cut trim, inspired by the waves of the ocean.
Frankies Bikinis
If there’s one swimwear brand synonymous with social media It Girls, it’s Frankies Bikinis. Founded by mother-and-daughter duo Mimi and Francesca Aiello who started out in 2012 designing bikinis in their Malibu home, Frankies Bikinis has become an online sensation and their designs have been sighted on countless celebrities. The brand has even collaborated with some — Pamela Anderson, Naomi Osaka and Gigi Hadid, just to name a few. If you love fun prints, bright colors and sexy silhouettes, Frankies Bikinis is sure to have a swimwear set you won’t be able to resist.
Balconette bikini tops are a great option for so many reasons; you get a great amount of lift and support, and you just feel more comfortable moving around and being active. This option comes in the brand’s newest floral print, which is both fun and fashion-forward.
One of the brand’s most popular pieces, this cheeky bikini bottom is a perfect option for anyone looking to emphasize their curves. The v-silhouette looks great on all body types and sizes, though particularly for those with smaller behinds.
This halter-style stunner is perfect for those looking for a little more support. And you can count on being comfortable too, thanks to adjustable back and neck ties.
Tigra the Label
Tigra the Label was born when two international fashion models, Chantel Ka and Tara Rogers, met while living in Bali and had a shared desire to create a more sustainable, eco-friendly swimwear line. The brand is a favorite of model, activist and entrepreneur Sharina Gutierrez, who was recently named a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit 2024 Rookie. So, it’s fair to say she’s worn a whole lot of different swimsuits. “What I love most about the brand is they are great for all breastfeeding mamas who still want to feel sexy but need the convenience and comfort for easy feeding access,” she shares.
“I love this specific style because the cut is flattering and the suit is multipurpose,” Gutierrez says, adding that “it can be turned into an anytime look.” The stunning turmeric shade is a personal favorite of hers, and we also love the metallic finish on the Cinnamon.
Gutierrez also recommends the matching bottom, which is available in the same colorways. This v-shaped style features a cheeky cut, ruched detailing on the back and sits high on your hips — perfect for achieving legs for days.
If you’re in search of a top with a bit more coverage and support, this feminine option features wider straps, a flattering ruched center design and a tie back so it’s easy to customize to your sizing.
Best one-piece swimwear brands
Andie
Shopping for swimwear online is always a challenge, but when it comes to the best experience you could possibly have? We have to hand it to Andie. The brand was created with essentially every pain point in mind: weird cuts that look good on the model but terrible in real life, designs not actually intended to fit plus-size proportions, the desire for different levels of coverage and more. You name it, they’ve considered it. In addition to most styles being available in XS through XXXL, you can choose between a classic fit and a long torso fit, and for some styles, there are three different levels of booty coverage. The brand also has Fit Experts available via email for everything from sizing support to fit advice so you can feel confident before checking out.
The LBD of swimwear, this classic one-piece is universally flattering and incredibly customizable. In addition to all the different design options you can choose from (including 10 colorways and patterns), it features adjustable straps and removable cups.
Reviewers love the way this classic plunge silhouette perfectly complements their curves and figures while still being compressive and supportive.
If you’re looking for a one-piece that can keep up with different aquatic activities, this chic option boasts maximum bust support and a versatile snap-front neckline.
Solid & Striped
Solid & Striped is all about everyday elegance, so it should come as no surprise that they’ve mastered the art of a well-constructed, high-quality one-piece swimsuit. If you prefer classic silhouettes that err on the side of preppy chic (as opposed to a trendy brand pumping out different styles), then you’ve come to the right place. In addition to stunning one-piece swimwear, they have a wonderful assortment of equally chic bikinis and stunning, timeless beachwear that’s both classy and sexy. Plus, they’ve tapped Sofia Richie Grainge for a spring collection that takes the season’s transitional dressing into mind.
One of the brand’s most popular products, the Anne-Marie features the hallmarks of a classic one-piece silhouette: a sexy low-scoop back, low sides and a rounded neck. This iteration includes a built-in shelf for a bit more support, plus UPF 50 sun protection in certain colorways.
If you’re on the hunt for a luxe one-piece for your next European vacation, we can’t recommend this stunner from the Sofia Richie Grainge collection enough. The sleek design paired with silver hardware on the back is simply irresistible.
This piece embraces the fun of a bikini with the support of a one-piece. It doubles wonderfully as a bodysuit and would look perfect paired with different bottoms from white linen pants to denim shorts.
Summersalt
Beloved for its inclusive sizing, bright colorblocking and transparent pricing, it’s hard to miss Summersalt in any search for high-quality swimwear. The cult-fave brand has been one of our go-tos for a while, and it’s for good reason. Summersalt took over 1.5 million body measurements from 10,000 women to inform what they refer to as “the Summersalt“ fit on its website — and the proof is in the product reviews. People can’t get enough of just how universally flattering, comfortable and supportive the brand’s swimwear is.
Described by one reviewer as “a unicorn, diamond-in-the-rough bathing suit,” this bestseller — which is available in sizes 0 through 24 — hugs your curves while providing the perfect amount of compression to make you feel instantly snatched.
I don’t typically opt for a one-piece, but this one makes it into my summer rotation every year. It boasts the comfort and support that Summersalt’s pieces are known for, paired with an adorable polka-dot pattern, fun ruffles and a super-chic open-back design.
The ladies who know, know — there’s truly nothing more flattering than a wrap design, and now you can embrace the style in your swimwear.
Best affordable swimwear brands
Aerie
We’ve been longtime fans of Aerie’s swimwear, and Helya Mohammadian, founder and CEO of accessible apparel brand Slick Chicks, agrees with us. “Aerie is my top choice because of their combination of cute and comfortable styles that cover you in all the right places,” she says. Plus, the range of stylish designs at the affordable price point makes the brand a winner in essentially every way.
Mohammadian recommends this bikini top, which she describes as both sexy and flattering. And the chic crinkle material doesn’t just look good, it also provides you with UPF 50 sun protection.
This stunning cross-back one-piece is a new style that’s already on sale. Available in sizes XXS to XXL, plus long options, reviewers love how flattering the cut is with enough coverage on the behind but a hint of sex appeal with the front cutout.
These are the black bikini bottoms I’ve been wearing for multiple summers now, and it’s because there’s simply nothing to be improved on. Mohammadian is a fan of the flattering, high-waisted design, which is both supportive and comfortable.
Cupshe
Cupshe made it onto our roundup of affordable Amazon swimsuits we actually loved a couple times, so it should come as no surprise that we’re still impressed by just how comfortable and accessible the brand’s options are. Not only is Cupshe’s swimwear affordable but there are tons of styles available on Amazon, so you can order a couple pieces and not have to stress about returns if something doesn’t work out or the sizing isn’t quite right.
This stunning mesh one-piece — which is available in sizes medium through 3XL — looks a whole lot more expensive than it is. Reviewers love that you get the support and comfort of a one-piece swimsuit with the sexiness and fun of a two-piece.
This classic bikini set includes a top with a flattering twist design and adjustable straps, and a high-waisted bottom that provides great coverage and support while still looking super cute.
Ruffles are always fun on swimwear, and this one-piece does them just right. There are tons of different colorways to choose from, and the back lace-up detail is both practical and chic.
Best minimalist swimwear brands
Left on Friday
What do you get when two former Lululemon product employees create the swimwear line of their dreams? Left on Friday, of course! With a focus on premium quality and “insanely comfortable fit,” as described by the brand, Left on Friday uses a proprietary Italian fabric that’s compressive and smoothing but feels like butter on your body. It doesn’t snag and holds up well against sun and chlorine. Harper’s Bazaar fashion commerce editor Halie LeSavage once described the brand as having some of her favorite basic swimwear, adding that its staple pieces — like a simple black one-piece — have lasted her years and still look and feel amazing.
This lower-coverage bikini top is especially flattering for those with B through D cups. Not only is it available in sizes XS through XXL but you can choose from over 30 colors. The tricky part is just getting one.
These high-waisted bikini bottoms boast a 4.6-star rating from over 700 reviewers, and it’s easy to see why. Designed using the brand’s Smoothing Dream Fabric, they’re soft yet compressive, smoothing and dry quickly.
Designed for those with D through G cups, this gorgeous square-front bikini top is all about support and the perfect amount of coverage while still looking chic.
Cuup
When it comes to swimwear basics, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that undergarment brand Cuup knows how to construct well-fitting, comfortable and supportive pieces. The bikini tops are sized like bras, so you can feel confident about picking the size that’s right for you, while the bottoms are available in sizes XS through XXXL. And though you won’t find the brand releasing experimental designs or crazy prints, you will find an inclusive size range of super-high-quality essentials that is especially well-suited for those with larger chests, King-Bails says.
Bandeau tops are hard to get right, but Cuup creates one that’s chic and flattering, and will actually stay in place throughout the day. The custom center hook helps to add a little extra support and lift.
We all need one — a full-coverage and comfortable bikini bottom that will feel comfortable in and out of the water. This classic cut is available in sizes XS through XXXL.
Described by the brand as its most “universally fit-forgiving and supportive silhouette,” this curved bikini top features a lightweight underwire and UPF 50 protection.
Best swimwear and swim trunk brands for men
Fair Harbor
When it comes to an all-around great place for men to shop for swim trunks or water-friendly athleisure shorts, experts can’t recommend Fair Harbor enough. “The brand uses a polyester made from recycled plastic bottles,” says Boston-based menswear and travel writer Todd Plummer. “It’s incredibly soft and stretchy and has that ‘all-day comfort’ factor I’m looking for.” A sustainable, B Corp-certified brand that launched in 2014, Fair Harbor’s emphasis on comfort and environmental responsibility is clear across its products. “Their liner isn’t mesh but more of a breathable brief,” says Brooklyn-based stylist Allison Koehler, “which means that my little guy can go from sand to surf and back again all day without painful chafing.”
“I love the 5- and 6-inch-inseam shorts,” Plummer says. “It's the perfect length for showing off great thighs but not so short that I’d be embarrassed to wear them around relatives or colleagues.”
“This short ticks all the boxes for me as both a mom and a stylist,” Koehler says. “Bright colors, fun prints, quick-drying material and no mesh for ultimate comfort.” The same style is also available in men’s sizes.
Plummer recommends these multiwear athleisure shorts, which can be worn both in and out of the water. They’re available in two different inseam lengths, with or without liners and in sizes small through 3XL.
Bather
Don’t let the fact that they’re a Toronto-based brand fool you — Bather knows its swimwear. Launched in 2013, Bather’s smart and stylish designs emphasize durable and high-quality construction, meaning your trunks will last far beyond one season. Made from a quick-drying recycled nylon material, its trunks include all your swimwear must-haves: a comfortable elastic waistband, soft mesh lining and deep pockets. But the brand really shines when it comes to fun and bright designs that look less juvenile and more fashion-forward.
These wonderfully bright yet classic swim trunks will be sure to turn heads at the pool this summer. They feature 5.5-inch inseam, multiple pockets and a shell made from 100% recycled quick-dry polyester.
These technical surf trunks, which are available in a couple bold and neutral colors, are made from 92% recycled polyester. They also features a handy back pocket and a reflective label.
One of the coolest designs we’ve ever seen on a pair of swim trunks, this pair features a water dragon — a symbol of prosperity and good fortune — in the traditional Japanese Ukiyo-e style of painting.
Vuori
Vuori specializes in all things performance apparel, so it makes sense that the coastal California-inspired brand has a super-impressive selection of board shorts and quick-drying athletic shorts. Whether you’re in search of a comfortable, supportive pair of trunks that are great for water sports or a versatile pair of shorts for every day of your next warm-weather beach vacation, they’ve got you covered.
These board shorts were constructed to fit and feel as comfortable as your everyday shorts. Details like the scalloped leg, mesh pockets and drawcord are a perfect illustration of the brand’s commitment to a high-performance fit.
These perfect-for-just-about-everything shorts are designed using the brand’s VCycled fabric, which is made from recycled plastic bottles. The material features four-way stretch, odor control and is quick drying.
Perfect for surfing and other water sports, these board shorts feature a flexible neoprene waistband and zip pocket, so you can rest easy knowing your essentials are safe and secure.
