A-list celebrities. Bloggers. Models. Fashion designers. I’m fairly certain almost every category of Insta-famous fashion person has worn a thong bikini as of late. Let’s discuss.
There are a few factors that I believe converged to give us the latest version of the thong bikini. But the general ’80s influence happening now is majorly culpable. The high-cut-bikini trend, which was huge three decades ago, goes hand in hand with a thong back. Legs cut so darn high lend themselves naturally to skimpy coverage behind. Other ’80s swim fads, such as wearing chain belts and socks and sneakers with your bikini, are back too.
I should clarify we’re not only talking about bikinis here. Yes, there’s the thong one-piece, which we thought was safe territory for full-coverage cuties like myself, but the thong trend does not turn the other cheek (sorry) concerning any form of swimwear.
In fact, there’s quite a range of ways to get the look, from a classic thong to a Brazilian tanga to the cheeky bottoms that have been stretched to their limits into an impressive wedgie. We generally seem to have drawn the line before straight G-strings, which I feel pretty good about. But don’t take my word for it. Keep scrolling to see how the thong has taken over and shop the barely-there bikinis favored by Instagram’s elite and customers too.
Shop Thong Swimsuits
Review Highlight: "Exactly what I was looking for. The coverage is adjustable but only ranges from thong to cheeky! It’s very comfortable, and the cut is perfect. I ended up getting a second pair in a different color." — Reviewer
Editor Highlight: Made from satin, this will be the softest swimsuit you've ever worn.
Review Highlight: "These fit absolutely perfectly! I’m very petite and have difficulty finding swim bottoms that fit. Highly recommend!" — Skims Reviewer
Editor Highlight: The great thing about this bikini bottom is that it's available in two other colorways (black and chocolate brown) along with sizes XS- 5XL.
Reviewer Highlight: "Very flattering to the body and doesn’t create a bulge on the backside like some bikinis do when they start moving up." — Reviewer
Editor Highlight: The high leg cut on this pair of bikini bottoms will make your legs look longer.
Reviewer Highlight: "Love these cheeky bottoms. Definitely keeps tan lines to a minimum." — Reviewer
Editor Highlight: Note the two-tone detail on this bikini bottom.
The definition of an itsy bitsy bikini.
Editor Highlight: Everything about these bikini briefs is cute—from the vibrant hue to the adjustable bows on the side.
Reviewer Highlight: "Very hot thong bikini bottom. The tie straps stayed secured in the ocean." — Reviewer
Editor Highlight: I'll be living in this shade of pink all summer.
Reviewer Highlight: "Best swim shorts I've ever bought." — Google Reviewer.
Editor Highlight: Hunza G's swimwear is beloved by the fashion set.
How adorable are these bottoms from Frankie's Bikini's?
Editor Highlight: You can't go wrong with a black bikini.
Reviewer Highlight: "I sized up based on reviews, and I love it! It is not stretchy but hugs the body very nicely and looks amazing on." — Reviewer
Editor Highlight: The color-blocked layers on these bikini briefs gives off the illusion of an exposed G-string.
Reviewer Highlight: "The most comfortable and flattering fabric. Hugs you in all the right places. I got a medium but usually get small, and I’m glad I got a medium because it does run small." — Reviewer
Editor Highlight: You'll want to opt for a pair of ruched bikini bottoms if you want to make your thong swimsuit look even more flattering.
Reviewer Highlight: "A must-have bikini! It's the most comfortable and sexy string bikini I've ever worn. It feels like you're naked, and I love how you can adjust how small or big the coverage is. Plus it's available in all colors!" — Reviewer
Editor Highlight: Embellishments own me.
This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated by Jasmine Fox-Suliaman.
-
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.
