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13 Best Bikini Tops and Sets to Buy This Summer

These delivered the best fit, support, and style for every budget and body.

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swimwear display featuring a person trying on a purple bikini with additional bikini designs alongside

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As an analyst who covers swimwear in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, I know what makes a bikini work, from the type of straps that really provide support to the smoothing fabrics that flatter. Over the years, I've researched swimwear from hundreds of brands, and dozens of swimsuits have come across my desk for more thorough evaluation: I currently have a small mountain of 30 different styles next to my computer. I consider construction, material, care, and the style. I also share tons of swimsuits with consumer testers who bring them along on their vacations and give me all the feedback on how the swimsuits handle real-life scenarios—they document the good (waist-cinching effects, sturdy ties) and the bad (nip slips, color changes, and more). The following picks are from brands that stood out in my evaluations, along with the favorites of GH testers, analysts, and editors.

Our top picks:

morocco top chili pepper
a person in a dark bikini from monday swimwear stands with hands on hips, good housekeeping's best bikinis
a woman modeling a red bikini from monday swimwear against a tan background, good housekeeping's best bikinis
morocco top chili pepper
a person in a dark bikini from monday swimwear stands with hands on hips, good housekeeping's best bikinis

Pros

  • Traditional triangle bikini top but elevated
  • Several fabrications to choose from, including trendy crinkle
  • Luxe gold hardware

Cons

  • Ties are bulkier than other swimsuits

This classic bikini top from Monday Swimwear has a little more structure than the budget triangle bikinis of my youth. The cups are pleated at the edges for a luxe look that emphasizes the triangle shape, and there are chic gold rings connecting the straps to the cups. I particularly love the look of the trendy crinkled material, but the swimsuit comes in several fabrications including rib knit and traditional stretch knit.

As someone with a D/DD-cup, I like that the tie straps are thicker than a traditional string bikini because they don't dig into my neck and shoulders. However, they are a little bulky in the back, which may not be everyone's favorite look, especially under a more form-fitting swim coverup.

The brand carries tons of coordinating bottoms with different amounts of coverage, ranging from thongs to high-waisted bikinis to cheeky-tie bikinis. Monday offers traditional sizing, along with petite and sizes specifically for larger chests.

Two Piece Swimsuit High Waisted
Credit: Mike Garten/Good Housekeeping

Pros

  • Tons colors and patterns to choose from
  • Higher waistline emphasizes an hourglass shape
  • Nice lift in the chest without an underwire

Cons

  • Material can feel rough compared to other styles

One of the most popular online brands for swimwear, Cupshe has become a trusty resource for affordable, trendy swimsuits. Not only are so many of the styles available on Amazon with convenient Prime shipping, but they're also decent quality for the price point: This bikini is a set and costs less than one piece at some of our other favorite brands.

The cross-front design with a v-neckline helps add a little cleavage but also offers more chest support than a triangle top. I was surprised by the amount of lift I achieved with this bikini top, even without push-up padding or an underwire. While the back of the top isn't adjustable, the straps are, so you can find the best fit, and you don't have to worry about it coming untied in the water.

The high-waisted bottoms hit at the natural waistline, emphasizing an hourglass shape. While the material is on the rougher side, it's not uncomfortable, and the vibrant color held fast after a summer of trips to the pool. There are more than 30 colors and patterns, so you're bound to find one that speaks to you!

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back view of a person wearing a green swimsuit top with crisscross straps
woman wearing a green bikini top from aerie and a white sarong smiling at the camera, good housekeeping's best bikinis
person wearing a green bikini top with a yellow necklace
back view of a person wearing a green swimsuit top with crisscross straps
woman wearing a green bikini top from aerie and a white sarong smiling at the camera, good housekeeping's best bikinis

Pros

  • Lace-up back for easy adjustment
  • Comfortable material
  • Coordinates with tons of bikini bottoms from the brand

Cons

  • Deep neckline could lead to slips, according to a tester

One of my go-to destinations for swimwear and a favorite of GH consumer testers, Aerie has mastered minimal swimsuits with a barely-there feel. The Voop style bikini is one of Aerie's most iconic swim tops, reappearing year after year in slightly different styles, like one with thicker straps. This skinny-strap version combines a traditional scoop neck with a slight v-shape (hence the "Voop" name) that flatters the chest. Just know that the deep neckline could lead to a slip if you have a larger chest, according to one of our testers.

Testers loved the comfortable feel of the fabric that stretches over curves without feeling restrictive. I have worn several variations of this swim top and especially appreciate this style because of the lace-up back for an all-over adjustable fit.

Pair it with any of Aerie's matching bikini bottoms. I can't get enough of the brand's high-waisted swim bottoms with a slight "v", which creates the illusion of an hourglass shape.

Hunza G Xandra Two-Piece Bikini Swimsuit in Lilac at Nordstrom
woman taking Selfie in a bathroom wearing a lavender bikini from hunza g, good housekeeping's best bikinis
hunza g xandra two piece bikini swimsuit in lilac at nordstrom
Hunza G Xandra Two-Piece Bikini Swimsuit in Lilac at Nordstrom
woman taking Selfie in a bathroom wearing a lavender bikini from hunza g, good housekeeping's best bikinis

Pros

  • Material offers light compression and smoothing
  • Can fit sizes 2–14
  • A favorite of GH analysts who say it's comfortable without digging in

Cons

  • No underwires, adjustable straps, or lining

You have every right to be skeptical of a "one-size" bikini, but in our tests, a swimsuit from Hunza G actually fit women sizes 2 through 14. I was seriously impressed by how well the exact same swimsuit not only fit me who is 6' with a DD-cup but also a petite model with a B-cup and a plus-sized model with a DDD-cup who tried the swimsuit for us.

The textured material has a ton of stretch, so it can expand to fit your curves, but it's structured enough to offer a lightly compressive feel. It doesn't have an underwire or any inner lining or padding for modesty up top, but it smoothed my chest without bumps or overflow.

I always keep this style in my swimsuit arsenal because I never have to worry if it's going to fit me one year to the next. Hunza G is a favorite of other GH analysts as well, including one who said, "The textured material is incredibly flattering and super comfortable to wear all day without digging in uncomfortably."

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This is an image
best bikinis  abercrombie  fitch
woman modeling a bikini top from abercrombie and fitch, good housekeeping's best bikinis
This is an image
best bikinis  abercrombie  fitch

Pros

  • Wider straps don't dig in
  • Underwire for added support
  • Specifically made to accommodate D—F cups

Cons

  • Unlined cups without removable padding may not be for everyone

Abercrombie & Fitch's Curve Love collection is the ideal solution for swimsuit shoppers facing the problem of finding a top with a small band size but with large cups. This bikini top is made specifically to accommodate D–F cups, with band sizes starting at 28.

It offers more bust support than A&F's classic swim line, complete with more structured cups, a larger gusset in the center of the chest, wider bands on the sides, and thicker adjustable straps. Some styles have a lace-up back for a more customizable fit, while others have a traditional hook. While there's not padding or removable cups for modesty, the unlined bikini top still smoothes the chest.

I have a D/DD-cup and love the secure feel of this top. I have a hard time finding bikini tops that cover my chest and have so much support that still look cute, but this bikini top does it all. No bouncing, no digging in, and no overflow.

RELATED: The Best Swimsuits for Large Busts

6
Best for Small Busts

Pepper Triangle Bikini Top

Triangle Bikini Top
woman wearing a striped bikini from pepper and a sheer wrap, good housekeeping's best bikinis
Triangle Bikini Top
Triangle Bikini Top
woman wearing a striped bikini from pepper and a sheer wrap, good housekeeping's best bikinis

Pros

  • Specially made for smaller cup sizes
  • Straps convert to racerback for extra support and security
  • Tester with A cup loved the look and fit

Cons

  • Some testers have a hard time finding best size

Perfect for someone with a small chest, this bikini top from Pepper is specially designed to fit AA, A, and B cup sizes. Pepper's bras are our favorite for small busts because of their unique design that's meant to shape smaller chests without gaping or feeling bulky. The brand's swimsuits are similar with darted cups for light shaping and a comfortable, wire-free design with removable cups. The adjustable straps can be converted to a racerback for maximum support (no slips here).

One consumer tester with an A-cup who tried a one-piece swimsuit from Pepper couldn't believe just how good it looked on her. She said she felt secure and like she finally achieved some lift in a swimsuit, which she didn't think was possible.

Just know that some of our Pepper testers have had a hard time pinning down their correct size because the bras and swimsuits are designed differently, so it's always a good idea to consult the size chart instead of going with what you usually wear.

RELATED: The Best Swimsuits for Small Chests

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model wearing a blue twopiece swimsuit
Selfportrait in a black twopiece bikini from old navy with a smartphone, good housekeeping's best bikinis
model wearing a blue twopiece bikini from old navy against a grey background, good housekeeping's best bikinis
model wearing a blue twopiece swimsuit
Selfportrait in a black twopiece bikini from old navy with a smartphone, good housekeeping's best bikinis

Pros

  • One of the more affordable styles we've tested
  • Full-coverage top with removable cups
  • Similar trendy look to other high-end swimsuits

Cons

  • No adjustable features

This scoop-neck style looks similar to other trendy swimsuits we've tested from well-known brands but is a fraction of the cost. Old Navy is a reliable source for comfy swimwear that won't break the bank, and this bikini top (and matching bottom) is no exception. This top retails for $25 but is typically on sale for much less. The classic styles offer just the right amount of coverage—not too cheeky and not too much cleavage but also not frumpy.

According to our consumer testers, the swimsuits run true to size. It comes in XS–4X. This one is made with a textured rib fabric that adds some dimension to an otherwise simple swimsuit, and the cut of the neckline works well for both small and large chests. There are no adjustable straps or back closure, but it does have removable cup inserts.

Model wearing a pink bikini set from the back
woman modeling a pink swim halter bikini top from spanx against grey background
Model wearing a pink bikini set from the back
woman modeling a pink swim halter bikini top from spanx against grey background
Now 64% Off

Pros

  • Targeted shaping, like brand's shapewear
  • Medium compression for a secure feel
  • Removable cups for modifiable coverage

Cons

  • Can feel snug because of smoothing design

Our best overall shapewear brand, Spanx has a collection of swimwear that's similar to its undergarments—designed with shaping in mind. The swimsuits in this collection, including the featured bikini top, offer targeted compression to smooth where needed while also enhancing your curves. The double-layered fabric holds everything in place but isn't too tight: Spanx says it has medium compression.

This halter top has adjustable tie straps at the neck for a better fit, and the cups have small darts to support the breasts. There are removable cups for more customizable coverage too. When we've tested other swim styles from Spanx, consumer testers have loved how well it holds everything in. However, it can feel snug compared to other swimsuits, so keep that in mind when choosing your size.

RELATED: The Best Tummy Control Swimsuits

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woman modeling a green bikini left on friday
Individual in red swimwear from left on friday against a light green background, good housekeeping's best bikinis
woman modeling a green bikini left on friday
Individual in red swimwear from left on friday against a light green background, good housekeeping's best bikinis

Pros

  • Most styles come in sizing for smaller and larger chests
  • Comfortable pull-on tops
  • All the brand's tops and bottoms are designed to look great together

Cons

  • No padding or adjustable straps

Left On Friday is the perfect place to find mix-and-match bikinis that you can throw in your beach bag and wear all summer long. The tops and bottoms are all simple and come in a smooth, matte knit fabric and a ton of colors that work well when paired with each other in any combination.

Every bikini top from the brand is a pull-on style without adjustable straps, back closures, or padding. They're kind of like a sports bra meets a swimsuit in the best way—both supportive and comfy.

The featured top is made specifically for larger busts, but most of the swimsuits come in sizing for A–C cups and D–DD cups. One tester who typically wears a 34G/H was impressed by how well the Top Shelf style fit and said she felt minimal bounce compared to other swim tops she has worn.

red bikini set featuring a highwaisted bottom and a cropped top
best bikinis  summersalt
woman modeling a red bikini top from summersalt in an outdoor setting, good housekeeping's pick for best plunge bikini
red bikini set featuring a highwaisted bottom and a cropped top
best bikinis  summersalt

Pros

  • Sophisticated gold hardware
  • Built-in cups for consistent coverage
  • Wider straps feel supportive

Cons

  • Narrow cup design shows more cleavage

GH editors and analysts have long been fans of Summersalt's swimsuits, and we appreciate the brand's use of quality construction and materials, including elements like sophisticated gold metal hardware and thick stretch fabric.

This plunge style bikini top has built-in cups and straps that are wider in the front for support with adjustable slides in the back for a better fit. The cups on this one are a little narrow, so I had more noticeable side cleavage when wearing it than other swimsuits—not ideal if you prefer a less revealing look. Still, I felt supported up top and honestly loved the coverage for lying on the beach.

You can coordinate the plunge top with any of the brand's bikini bottoms in low-, mid-, and high-rise styles or with one of its trendy coverups.

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dippin daisys
palm tie back triangle bikini top
dippin daisys
palm tie back triangle bikini top

Pros

  • Adjustable back and neck ties
  • Comes in over 50 prints and colors
  • Testers said it runs true to size

Cons

  • Not as supportive as other styles

Nothing quite beats a string bikini, and Dippin Daisys has nailed the traditional triangle tie top and tie bottoms. The bikini top comes in over 50 different patterns and fun colors, all with playful design elements like textured fabrics, charms, embroidered edges, and contrasting ties. The straps and back are both adjustable, making it easier to find the right fit, and there are removable pads depending on the amount of coverage you want.

Because the top offers minimal coverage and has string straps, it's not as supportive for larger chests as other styles we've tested, but some of the colors are available through size 3X. Consumer testers said it runs true-to-size, and one GH staffer who loves Dippin Daisys shared, "Sizing is always consistent, which makes shopping their swim so much easier." She added, " I’ve owned several of their swimsuits for years, and the quality has held up incredibly well through frequent wear and washing."

The brand carries many options for bottoms, but I recommend pairing with the matching side-tie style.

Back view of a woman in a blue bikini top
woman modeling a blue bikini top from swimsuits for all against an outdoor setting, good housekeeping's pick for best plus size bikini top
Back view of a woman in a blue bikini top
woman modeling a blue bikini top from swimsuits for all against an outdoor setting, good housekeeping's pick for best plus size bikini top

Pros

  • Removable cups with powermesh lining for a smoothing effect
  • Tie front for adjustable cup coverage
  • Comes in sizes 4–28

Cons

  • Sizing can run small, so check size chart

This bikini top from Swimsuits for All is offered in an inclusive range of sizes—from 4 to 28. The tie in front is cute and functional. You can tie it tighter for a more revealing, deeper neckline or leave it looser for a more modest look. Inside, there are removable padded cups and a powermesh lining, which is slightly compressive for a smoothing effect. Plus, the straps are thicker and adjustable, so they shouldn't dig into your shoulders if you have a large chest.

I have worn a couple of bikinis from Swimsuits for All and recommend reviewing the size chart or using the brand's sizing tool before adding to cart. The tops run a little smaller than I expected, so I had to size up.

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Highwaisted black swimwear from knix, shown from the back, good housekeeping's best bikinis
woman wearing a black bikini from knix, good housekeeping's best bikinis
Highwaisted black swimwear from knix, shown from the back, good housekeeping's best bikinis
woman wearing a black bikini from knix, good housekeeping's best bikinis

Pros

  • Lightly compressive fabric feels secure
  • Can absorb up to 3 tampons of menstrual fluid
  • Leg openings didn't dig in

Cons

  • Some testers didn't like cut of the bottoms

Getting your period can put a real damper on your plans to head to the pool or beach, but you don't have to worry about leaking through your swimsuit, thanks to Knix's line of period swimwear. The brand's bikini bottoms are one of our top-tested period swim styles and can absorb up to three tampons worth of menstrual flow, according to the brand.

The lightly compressive smoothing material and high-waisted design keep everything in place, and roomy leg openings feel comfy enough to wear all day long without digging in.

A few of our consumer testers have told us that they sometimes opt to wear this suit even when they're not on their periods, but some shared that they found the cut to be unflattering. The brand offers just as absorbent lower rise and full-coverage styles if you're not a fan of the high-waisted look.

How we choose the best bikini

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The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab tests all kinds of swimsuits. In recent years, we've reviewed over 50 swim styles, including dozens of bikinis from popular brands.

We first review the swimsuits online, considering the style details, fiber content, sizing, and more. Then, we review the swimsuits in the Lab for construction and appearance before sharing them with consumer testers. Our testers try the swimsuits on to share feedback on fit and sizing, along with how easy the swimsuits are to put on and take off, if the swimsuits hold up in the wash without noticeable wear, and if swimsuits actually stay in place and keep their color after exposure to chlorine or sea water. Plus, they share their thoughts on overall comfort, which is key to finding the perfect swimsuit.

All the bikinis featured are styles from top-tested brands that have performed well in former Textiles Lab evaluations or are favorites of GH analysts and editors.

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What to look for when shopping for a bikini

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When you're shopping for your next bikini, these are a few things to keep in mind:

✔️ Fit: We all have our own perceptions of what fits us nicely and looks the best on our bodies, and with so many styles to choose from, finding a bikini that fits right can feel impossible. Here's what to consider when searching for a bikini to find the proper fit:

  • Tops: Think about how much chest support you would like your swimsuit to provide. If you prefer something more modest or need more coverage, opt for a bikini top with built-in or removable padded cups. Also look for inner linings made of materials like powermesh that provide extra shaping. Straps can have a huge impact on how well your bikini top fits. Thinner straps won't result in as noticeable of tan lines, but they can dig into your shoulders, especially if you have a larger chest. Wider straps, on the other hand, tend to provide more support and lift. A strap with adjustable features or ties can help you to achieve your best fit because you can loosen or tighten them according to your preference.
  • Bottoms: First consider how much coverage you prefer. Some suits are cheeky, which means they show off more of your bottom, while others are full-coverage and less revealing. Another important element of design is the waistline. A high-waisted bikini bottom can appear to be more slimming because there's more material to keep everything in place, and the cut emphasizes your natural waistline. Lower-cut bottoms typically show off the abdomen and emphasize the hips instead. Features like side ties or drawcords can be adjusted for a better fit as well.

✔️ Material: Most swimsuits are made with synthetic materials like nylon or polyester and blended with stretch fibers like spandex or Lycra. These fibers tend to be lightweight, durable, stretchy, and dry quickly, making them ideal for a swimsuit. A popular trend in swimwear this season is textured materials, so keep an eye out for descriptors like plisse, jacquard, crinkle, or puckered when you're browsing for bikinis online.

✔️ Care: To keep your bikini in tip-top shape, it's a good idea to follow the care instructions provided by the brand. You'll typically be able to find them in the product description online or on the care label inside of the swimsuit. Not all swimsuits can be thrown into the washer and machine dried, so be sure to review the care instructions before buying if you prefer something that's easier to care for.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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Amanda Constantine joined the Good Housekeeping Institute in 2022 as a home & apparel reviews analyst. Constantine has a fashion background and has covered bathing suits for women over 50, slimming swimsuits and one-piece bathing suits, as well as other gear including beach tents For this article, she used her relative expertise to research bikini bathing suits from popular brands online and reviewed swimsuit testing data to choose picks from brands that have performed well in the past or that are favorites of other GH analysts and editors. She and her coworkers tried most of the swimsuits out for themselves to provide insight into comfort, fit, and style.

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