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Bikini Guide: Every Bikini Style, How It Should Fit and Where to Buy

Every bikini top and bottom style explained, how a bikini top should fit, how to tie one, and where to buy bikinis online.

Buyco Style Team November 13, 2026 4 min read

Key takeaways

  • Triangle, bandeau, underwire and halter tops all fit differently
  • High waisted bottoms give the most coverage
  • A bikini top band should sit flat without riding up
  • Check size charts and swimwear return rules when buying online
In this guide

Where should you buy a bikini, and which style suits you? This guide covers every bikini top and bottom style, how a bikini top should fit, how to tie one, and what to look for when you buy bikinis online.

Where to buy bikinis

You can buy bikinis in stores or online. Online bikini stores usually have far more styles, sizes and colors. When you shop for bikinis online, check three things: a clear size chart, the return policy for swimwear, and shipping times before a trip. Every Buyco order ships free, and you can shop all bikini sets year round.

Different styles of bikini tops

Different styles of bikini bottoms

  • Brief: classic, fuller coverage.
  • Cheeky: shows a little more at the back.
  • String or tie side: adjustable with fewer tan lines.
  • High waisted: sits at or above the navel. Shop high waisted bikinis.
  • Skirt or 3 piece: a matching skirt or sarong. Shop skirt bikini sets.

How should a bikini top fit?

The band should sit flat without riding up, the cups should cover without gaps or spilling, and straps should feel secure without digging in. If you are between sizes, size up for more coverage or down for a snugger fit.

How to tie a bikini top that is not around the neck

Many triangle tops can be tied as a criss cross: cross the neck straps at the back and tie them to the back band, or wrap long strings around the waist. This takes pressure off your neck.

What makes the best bikini?

The best bikinis for women are lined, fit well and suit what you plan to do. For tanning, choose bandeau or string styles. For swimming, choose underwire or high waisted styles that stay put. For small busts, padded triangle or ruched bandeau tops add shape. Shop bikinis under $35 for affordable options.

Best places to buy bikinis

The best places to buy bikinis offer many styles, sizes sold as sets or separates, clear fit guides and easy shipping. Online stores usually have the widest range of bikini tops, bikini bottoms and full sets.

Where to get cute bikinis

For cute bikinis, look for ruffles, ties, florals, polka dots and fun colors. Shop print bikinis, pink bikinis and yellow bikinis, or cute bikinis under $35.

Where to buy cheap bikinis

Affordable bikinis are easiest to find online, where stores sell direct. Our bikinis under $35 are full sets with top and bottom included, with free shipping on every order.

What is a triangle bikini?

A triangle bikini has two triangle shaped cups on a string, usually with a halter or tie neck. The cups slide so you can adjust coverage, which makes triangle bikinis easy to fit. See our triangle bikini sets.

What is a bandeau bikini?

A bandeau bikini has a strapless tube top, ideal for avoiding tan lines. Many have removable straps. Shop bandeau bikini sets.

What is a halter bikini?

A halter bikini top ties or fastens behind the neck, lifting the bust and giving more support than a classic string top.

Are high rise bikini bottoms flattering?

Yes. High waisted bottoms cover the tummy, define the waist and lengthen the legs. Shop high waisted bikinis.

Best push up bikini for a small chest

Padded, underwire and push up tops add shape. Ruffles and textured fabrics also add volume. Shop underwire bikini sets.

Can you add underwire to a bikini top?

It is hard to add underwire at home. It is easier to choose an underwire bikini top that already has built in support.

Are white bathing suits flattering?

White glows against a tan and looks fresh. Choose a lined white swimsuit so it stays opaque when wet. See white bikinis.

Questions, answered

Quick answers to what people ask most.

Where can I buy bikinis online?
Choose an online store with a clear size chart, a simple swimwear return policy and fast shipping. Buyco ships every order free.
How should a bikini top fit?
The band sits flat, the cups cover without gaps or spilling, and the straps feel secure without digging in.
What are the different styles of bikini bottoms?
Brief, cheeky, string or tie side, high waisted and skirt styles.
What is the best bikini for a small bust?
Padded triangle tops and ruched bandeaus add shape and volume.
Can I return a bikini?
Unworn swimwear with tags and the hygiene liner intact can be returned within 30 days of delivery.
Where can I get cute bikinis for cheap?
Online stores that sell direct have the best prices. Our bikinis under $35 include prints, bright colors and classic styles.
Where can I buy cheap bikinis?
Online stores that sell direct usually have the best prices. Our bikini sets under $35 include both pieces.
What is a triangle bikini?
A bikini with two triangle cups on a string, adjustable for coverage, usually with a halter or tie neck.
What is a bandeau bikini?
A bikini with a strapless tube top, great for avoiding tan lines.
Are high waisted bikini bottoms flattering?
Yes. They cover the tummy, define the waist and lengthen the legs.
What bikini is best for a small chest?
Padded, underwire and push up tops, or ruffled styles that add volume.

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