Our Favourite Summer Bikinis for a Perfect Beach Day
What Is a Bikini?
A bikini is the iconic 2-piece swimsuit that’s a staple in any summer wardrobe. Named after the iconic Bikini Atoll, the original bikini was made out 2 triangles on the top piece and the bottom piece.
Today, that style is known as a triangle bikini, but there are many different styles. Now that 2-piece swimsuits are the norm, you can wear a bikini-style swimsuit for any beach day.
What Are the Different Types of Bikinis?
Triangle
The original bikini-style bikini was made entirely out of triangles, hence the name. The top was 2 triangular pieces of fabric, one for each side. The bottoms were also 2 triangles, one for the front and one for the back.
Balconette
A balconette bikini, also known as a bra or bustier-style bikini, has a top that’s similar to most bras. Because of this, they’re a bit more supportive than the classic bikini. They also have a bit more coverage and provide a bit more of an upscale swimwear look.
Bandeau
A bandeau bikini is exactly what it sounds like, a bikini with a bandeau-style top. This means that the top is strapless, with a top that’s a single piece of fabric that wraps around the torso.
Tankini
A tankini is the perfect compromise. It’s still a 2-piece swimsuit, but provides more coverage by covering the stomach. Tankinis are typically halter style with triangle or balconette style cups.
Sports Bra
A sports bra bikini is pretty self-explanatory; it’s a bikini with a sports bra for a top. Because these bikinis are inspired by athletic wear, they’re great for beach activities like beach volleyball and surfing.
Cheeky
Cheeky bikinis are made to show off your… cheeks. They’re a mid to low-coverage style of bikini bottom that show off more of your backside.
What Bikini to Wear When
Lounging
If your perfect beach day involves rest and relaxation, you have tons of choices when it comes to bikinis. From sun tanning to sand castle building, you don’t have to worry too much about coverage or support.
For a relaxed beach day, you can really choose any bikini that reflects your personal style. Everything from a tankini to a cheeky bikini would work great for a day of lounging at the beach.
Sports
Whether you’re surfing or chasing after kids, a sporty beach day calls for a specific type of bikini. Thankfully, there are tons of sport-inspired bikinis to choose from.
Look for sports bra tops with thicker straps to provide more support. For bottoms, you can opt for a standard bottom with fuller coverage or a boy short bottom.
Formal
While a bikini might not be your first thought for a formal event, there are definitely occasions that call for a fancier bikini. A pool or beach party can be the perfect chance to wear a bikini with a bit more embellishment, like metallic or jewel details.
You can also look for bikinis with intricate details, like cutouts, chains, or criss-cross straps. Paired with a fashionable cover-up, these bikinis will help you look dressed up for the occasion.
