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There are tons of iterations of a two-piece bathing suit and too many micro trends to count — luxe underwire balconettes, ultra-high cut, revealing bottoms, cardigan bikini tops, and strappy bikini sets resembling what my colleague Liana Satenstein calls, “midriff floss.” With the overwhelming number of options to choose from, there’s something to be said for the longevity of a classic triangle bikini. If you’ve relied on your most essential and timeless silhouettes throughout the year, a similar approach makes sense when it comes to your beachwear. Casual days in the sun call for unfussy silhouettes and a classic triangle cut bikini aligns well with 2020’s no-frills approach to getting dressed. In a time where nothing beats slipping into your most comfortable t-shirt and other go-to basics, the best string bikinis keep it simple.
They’ve been a staple for decades. The minimal, torso-baring style was popular among both California girls and European starlettes in the ‘60s and has reigned as a summer classic since. The classic triangle bikini top made appearances in Vogue every decade following, the below images from the ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s and again in 2017 here are proof.
I’ve exclusively worn my solid-colored triangle bikinis since the beginning of summer. Maybe I’ve watched Blue Crush one too many times during quarantine, but I’ve certainly been influenced by the laid-back attitude of the “surfer girl” aesthetic, or perhaps it’s the paring down of my closet in general that has drawn me into the simplicity and ease of a string bikini. Besides, where would I wear an over-the-top suit, with no beach gatherings and pool parties to attend? I’ve tried plenty of swimwear styles and almost always find myself reaching for my trend-less triangle when it comes to putting on swimwear. Their understated look makes them feel appropriate for every occasion. They’re sporty enough for a solo paddleboard excursion and PG enough to wear around your parents — I’ve tested both scenarios. Despite revealing more skin than it’s modest one-piece sister, you’ll never quite feel “overdressed” in a triangle-shaped bikini.
Their allure extends beyond my own fascination — plenty of swimwear brands are going back to the basics with their own spins on the classic. The suit comes in a range of colors, prints, coverage options. Feel free to adjust your top or bottom to your liking thanks to two sets of side ties and sliding-sized triangle tops. It’s a style you can make wholly your own.
Here, an assortment of the best string bikinis for every personality, from minimalists to maximalists, and everyone in between.
Timeless Neutrals
You can’t go wrong with a solid-colored bikini, and you’ll never get tired of wearing one in black, white, navy, or brown.
Prints Please
A playful spin on a classic shape, from paisleys to daisys. These prints look sweet under a white oversized button down cover up.
Pick a Color
A classic silhouette has the power to take on any color, try one in any shade of your choosing.
