Bikinis hold a special place in my heart. Swimwear was the very first market I was assigned to edit when I became a fashion editor, and now, after years of discovering the latest trends, meeting designers, and working on photo shoots, I’ve become quite the bikini expert. From retro maillots and barely there bikinis to swim skirts and the return of the low rise, I’ve seen and tried them all. Thus, my Instagram has become a true testament to my ongoing love affair with bikinis.
We are inundated with bikini styles, colors, patterns, and fabrics to choose from (not a terrible situation), and it can be challenging to filter through and find the silhouettes that work best for you. Even though I have bins overflowing with every single bikini style you can imagine, I tend to remain loyal to the same six styles that are flattering and, of course, Insta-approved. I err on the side of high-cut, cheekier bottoms, as we’ve admitted the thong bikini trend made its return this summer, because the cut elongates your legs and complements your curves. I also opt for textured fabrics; whether it’s ribbed or a scrunched knit, textured bikinis are aesthetically appealing on the ‘gram. Below is a complete guide to the six bikini styles that photograph best. Trust me, they won’t let you down.
The V-Cut ’80s Bottom
This ’80s-inspired brief made its way into just about everyone’s wardrobe this season, and there’s a reason: The deep V-cut rests perfectly above your hips, creating an illusion of length by accentuating your legs. No need for photo editing when the swimsuit does it for you.
The Front-Tie Top
When it comes to Instagram, I’ve learned that quiet details can enhance the quality of a post. Update your classic two-piece with a unique front-tie detail to elevate a basic bikini top. Bonus: The front tie is extremely supportive.
The Square-Neck Maillot
A rare sighting: me sporting a one-piece. Look, there’s nothing wrong with a one-piece, but if I’m going to wear one, and go as far to Instagram it, it has to be just right. The newest neckline introduced this season is the square neck. This understated scoop accentuates the collarbones and, might I add, serves as the perfect canvas for a gold chain necklace.
The Cheeky Bottom
Embrace the cheekier cuts! I’m not saying you have to go full thong, but try opting for less coverage, which naturally complements your curves.
The Textured Crop Bikini
Remember those ’90s scrunch tops? Well, they’ve made a return via these scrunched knit bikinis. The stretchy seersucker fabric complemented by the sporty crop fit makes for the ultimate dynamic duo.
The Classic Triangle String Bikini
Revert back to the classic teeny-tiny string bikini. A style that has withstood the test of time and prevails as a swimwear staple will never steer you wrong on Insta.
