The best bikinis to make a splash in this summer
Bare-all bikinis and trending two-pieces to beat the heat in this summer
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Grab your sunnies and some sun cream, summer is just around the corner and this year we’re determined to make the most of it. And whether you’re off to Crete or Cardigan Bay, why not take the opportunity to make a serious splash in some new season swimwear? From barely-there bikinis to trendy tankinis, read on for our guide to the best two-piece swimsuits to pack for summer 2023 – just don’t forget your SPF.
The best triangle bikinis
Triangle bikinis – equally as chic with a pair of denim cutoffs as they are worn solo – prove a popular choice for stylish sunseekers every summer, so there are plenty of options to pick from. Meticulously crafted in Australia using a smooth stretch jersey, Matteau’s black bikini puts a modern spin on classic triangle styles with its wraparound detailing. Peony, meanwhile, has given its floral-print bikini a sustainable overhaul using Econyl – an eco-friendly fabric made from recycled nylon.
If you’re looking for a more classic style in which to soak up the sun, Indonesian B Corp-certified label Faithfull the Brand has you covered (or not) with its vibrant Marzia top, which we’ll be pairing with the brand’s Andrea bottoms come tanning time. Alternatively, Jet’s Floreale bikini features a playful floral print that perfectly encapsulates the lighthearted, laid-back vibes that epitomise swimsuit season.
The best one-shoulder bikinis
No longer banished to the annals of early-Noughties nostalgia, one-shouldered silhouettes are making a massive comeback for summer 2023. Johanna Ortiz has expertly tapped into the trend with its reversible bikini – complete with a tie back and ruched side panels so you can be sure it’s not going anywhere once you take the plunge – while fashion-set favourite Eres has taken the lead from retro sporty styles for its minimalist iteration.
If you’re looking to immerse yourself entirely in this summer’s retro revival, look to Rick Owens bold iridescent style. Cut in a Nineties-inspired silhouette, pair with the matching bottoms for a punky pop princess look. Elsewhere, Norma Kamali has brought the trend firmly into 2023 with its Grecian-inspired, draped style. Modelled after the brand’s popular Diana dress, this contemporary style is ideal for long lunches by the beach that keep flowing well into happy hour.
The best bandeau bikinis
A favourite of sun worshippers worldwide thanks to its versatility and lack of pesky, tan-line-causing straps, the bandeau bikini is a true It Girl summer staple. Alexandra Miro has kept things simple with its classic all-black style, while Mara Hoffman’s bold Barbie pink bikini is certain to make a splash poolside.
Marysia’s sunshine seashell-print scalloped-edge bandeau puts a sweet spin on the classic style and looks fabulous with a tan, but if you’re planning on doing more soaking in the sun than you are in the sea, opulent London-based swimwear brand Oceanus is for you. Its Lana bikini has been hand-beaded with crystals and bugle bead tassels for the perfect beach party-ready look.
The best high-rise bikinis
Where beaches were once awash with women wearing itsy-bitsy, teeny-weeny string bikini bottoms and even – gasp! – thongs, vintage high-rise styles have seen somewhat of a revival over recent summers. Universally flattering and undoubtedly chic, Vanessa Sposi’s high-waisted knickers and balloon-sleeve top evoke retro French Riviera glamour, while Hunza G’s one-size-fits-all seersucker bikini makes the case for mismatched separates.
Renowned for its resortwear, Isabel Marant doesn’t disappoint – live la dolce vita in its playfully printed high-rise briefs whether you’re sojourning in Amalfi or Abersoch. Oséree, specialising in swimwear that transitions seamlessly from beach club to night club (for those brave enough), makes a serious statement with its metallic-finish bikini.
The best fuller-coverage and supportive bikinis
If traditional, barely-there bikinis aren’t your thing, look to fuller coverage styles like Ganni’s high-necked crochet bikini – not a typical choice for beachwear but ideal for days spent sauntering along the seafront. Alternatively, Frankies Bikinis’ longline bandeau does the trick just as well, while nailing the Y2K trend we’re seeing everywhere this summer.
Those of us blessed with a fuller bust know all too well how hard it can be to find a bikini that flatters while keeping everything comfortably – and securely – where it should be. Fortunately, vintage-inspired underwired styles are trending, with a slew of brands, including Melissa Odabash, Fisch and Evarae, offering up their own takes. Australian brand Form and Fold, meanwhile, has nailed the supportive swimwear game with its range of D+ bikinis. The brand’s ultra-flattering Tri top both lifts and supports without the use of uncomfortable underwires so you can frolic freely in comfort without risking any awkward slips.
