Here's a little bikini history lesson for you: The style originally dates way back to the 1940s (1946, to be exact), when the first bikini appeared at a fashion event in Cannes—to the shock of many. It eventually came to be accepted, leading to the invention of the string bikini in the 1960s. But when you picture the string bikinis of yore, the '80s and '90s may come to mind. Or it could be the 2020s…
String bikinis are arguably the most popular swimsuit trend of the year. One scroll through your Instagram feed, if you follow lots of fashion people and celebrities, will quickly prove that. While string bikinis clearly have very little fabric to them, one reason they're so universally loved is that they're incredibly adjustable and, of course, sexy. If you concur, keep scrolling to see some of my favorite string bikinis on Instagram and to shop a few of the best ones your money can buy.
Who doesn't love a matching look?
Good American has all the good prints.
Shop the matching Tiny Ties Fixed Bottom ($49).
This lace-edge detail is perfect.
Get yourself a sarong, people—it's important.
Reversible swimsuits are one of my favorite inventions.
Shop the matching Reversible Iris Bottom ($95).
She's fun.
Simple string bikinis are often the best string bikinis.
Black bikinis will never not be chic. Trust me.
Shop the matching River Tie Full Bottoms ($72).
If I could only wear sparkly bikinis, I'd be happy.
A little yellow swimsuit and this infinity pool are all I need.
The prettiest-print award goes to…
Shop the matching Alegria Beaded Tie Bottoms ($101).
This well-priced checker-print option is so good.
Shop the matching Crochet Bikini Bottoms ($30).
Another great idea to consider: matching pants.
If you want to try the thong-bikini trend, you can do so with this Amazon find.
Hurry—H&M bikinis don't stay in stock for long.
Shop the matching Tie Bikini Bottoms ($6).
A bikini with thicker straps is still considered a string bikini.
I can't stop staring at this color.
This ribbed texture is everything.
Shop the matching Tiny Ties Bikini Bottoms ($55).
Classic prints are always a good idea.
If you're not into boring bikinis, this one's for you.
You don't have to actually go to Miami to appreciate this one.
Minimalism at its best.
The gold accents make this black bikini feel special.
Shop the matching Alexa Bottoms ($60).
This is making me want to wear a matching cardigan with my bikini.
Shop the matching Betsy Bikini Bottoms ($49).
The bikini and the wearer are glowing.
All I can say is wow.
The reviews for this one are incredible on Amazon.
If you're not into triangle bikinis, try a balconette top.
Thank you for this, Mango.
Last but not least, gold-chain straps.
Shop the matching Elm Bikini Bottoms ($90).
Next up, these are the best black bikinis on the internet.
This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
-
Flip-Flop Fatigue? Fashion People in Ibiza Are Wearing Bikinis and Skirts With This Flat-Shoe Trend InsteadYour new go-to summer shoes.
-
I'm Basically My Sister's Personal Stylist—36 Chic, Summer-Ready Zara Pieces I'm Sending Her WayPlus, some hot new arrivals.
-
J.Lo, Hailey Bieber, and Kourtney Kardashian All Own White Swimsuits From This BrandMost pieces are under $100.
-
Swim, Sandals, and SPF—30 Editor-Loved Summer Sale Finds From Anthropologie, Everlane, and J.CrewVacation-ready deals until June 15.
-
The Classic Swimwear Trend L.A. Fashion People Are Swapping Their Bandeau Bikinis ForNo fuss.
-
Sorry, Cheeky Bikinis—Fashion People Are Reaching For This Equally Chic Style InsteadSpotted on style muses from Paris to Lisbon.
-
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley's Burberry Bikini Is About to Go ViralKick-starting summer style.
-
The 21 Swimsuits That'll Be on Every Editor's, Stylist's, and Celebrity's Wish List This SummerThe first swimwear drop of 2025 is here.
