I am a fairly small human being. I'm not saying there's anything wrong with being short, but I am saying I wish I was taller. Don't get me wrong—ringing in at a solid 5'3" (and 1/4") definitely doesn't stop me from wearing "tall people" trends (whatever that means), but when it comes to swimwear, I would be lying if I said I didn't think about my short little legs while rocking a bikini. If there is any way to make my legs look longer, I personally am willing to give it a try.
There is one swimwear trend bubbling up this summer that not only looks great on a variety of body types but that makes me feel tall. You heard me—tall! The trend is the '80s high-cut leg. We've touched on it a few times so far as we gear up for the summer season ahead, but I really want to take time to celebrate the suit that convinces people my legs are longer than they actually are (because if you ask me, that's a miracle). Thanks to the cut on the leg hitting right above the hip bone, the natural line of your leg appears to extend higher and reach longer. Instead of cutting me off right where my hip and thigh meet, I get a few extra inches of leg, and for that, I am forever grateful.
While this high-cut swimsuit trend objectively does make your legs look longer, I am in no way saying you need to have longer-looking legs to look skinnier, feel prettier, and so on and so forth. I am actually bringing it up to remind you that everyone's body is different, and what is important is how what you put on it makes you feel. Wearing this swimsuit trend makes me feel taller, which in turn makes me feel more confident, and I don't think that's a bad thing. In case you can relate, I shopped out the '80s high-cut swimsuits I'm coveting ahead. Whether it be a stringy bikini or more modest one-piece, this swimwear trend is hands down my favorite for summer 2018, and I think it could be yours too.
These polka dots were made for Instagram.Top and Vivian Tie Side Bottom in Stomp the Divots ($95) available in sizes XS to XL.
Straight from your childhood into your adulthood.Available in sizes 2 to 8.
This color is all I can think about right now.Top and The Morgan Bottom ($78) available in sizes XS to L.
Smocked and ready for a day at the beach.Top and The Cindy High Rise ($110) available in sizes XS to L.
Between the rings and the ruching, we don't know what we love more.Top and Bikini Bottoms ($20) available in sizes 12 to 22.
If I could wear this swimwear brand for the rest of my life, I would be happy.Top and Alpha Bottoms ($69) available in sizes S to L.
The striped one-piece that can also double as a bodysuit.Available in sizes 1X to 3X.
This is giving us Clueless vibes. Available in sizes S to L.
Mood.Top and Isla Bottom ($99) available in sizes XS to L.
Another perfect one-piece to add to your collection.Available in sizes 1X to 3X.
Is it a bikini? Is it a one-piece? Available in sizes XS to XL.
I'm sorry, but this print is adorable.Available in sizes XXS to XL.
Sporty and chic all at once.Available in sizes 0 to 14.
The swimsuit that will make your natural glow stand out.Top and Monaco Bottom ($49) available in sizes XS to XL.
Another insanely amazing swimwear brand to keep on your radar. Available in one size.
This combination of the texture and color of this suit is giving us life.And Pool Bottoms ($80) available in sizes XS to L.
I actually own this one, and I have never loved anything more.Top and Fleur Bikini Bottoms ($78) available in sizes 8 to 14.
Extremely '80s in the best way.Available in sizes XS to L.
This suit is basically every cool summer swimwear trend in one.Top and Emily High Waisted Bottom ($95) available in sizes S to L.
Kitty kitty, baby.Top and Behati Bottoms ($69) available in sizes XS to L.
You can't go wrong with a classic.Available in sizes 4 to 24.
Talk about stunning…Available in sizes S to L.
Nude swimwear is definitely on the rise.Top and Cusp Bikini Bottom ($112) available in sizes XS to L.
Too cute to pass up.Available in sizes 0 to 12.
Next up, check out the 2018 swimwear starter pack to learn all about the other cool trends surfacing this season.
