The high-waist bikini is the perfect swimsuit compromise for those of us who want to show a little more skin than the average one-piece bathing suit allows, but prefer a bit more coverage than the classic skimpy string bikini. Luckily, this style has dominated the scene for quite some time now, and just about every swimwear brand has its own variation on the theme. My favorite thing about this style is that it’s much more versatile than you might think. It’s a great option regardless of whether you prefer a 90s-style high-cut leg, like to show a lot of cheeky bum or want full coverage on your behind.
Below, we’ve curated a list of some of the very best high-waist bikini swimsuits around. They all come in a variety of colors, patterns ands fabrics, with everything from interesting cutout detailing to simple, elegant and classic silhouettes. These chic swim styles are available from some of our favorite brands and retailers like Nordstrom, Amazon, Anthropologie, Free People and more. If you’ve been searching for the perfect high-waist bikini, then consider yourself covered. it’s always summer somewhere!
A high-cut cheeky bikini that will always be in style
Full disclosure: I've had this bikini for several years now and live in it every summer. It hasn't lost its shape or stretchiness despite various seasons of use and it's ideal for anyone who wants a high waist but loves to let their bum fly free — it's extra cheeky. The smooth black fabric is timeless and will never go out of style, and it's perfect for swimming and days spent lounging poolside. You can get it in sizes XXS-XXL.
Promising review: “super cute, i love the cut of the top and how it makes my girls look, great quality!” — Brooklyn
An affordable retro-style two-piece
I love an old Hollywood-inspired set. Can't you just picture all those glamorous stars of the ’50s and ’60s in this beauty? It's available in a range of colors and sizes XXS- 22. It has an adjustable tie-back halter neckline with clasp closure, a padded push-up bra that is as supportive as it is sexy, and high-cut leg bottoms with ruching details.
Promising reviews: “My fave suit! I have it in 3 different colors. Fits nicely and covers up without looking frumpy. Supports the girls up top and the bottoms look great without looking like granny panties. Great price and highly recommend! Whether you are a young gal or in your 50’s like me I am sure you will feel confident and sexy while still covering up some. Go ahead and buy it already!” — Carrie Williams
A sculpting bikini with a sporty square neckline
For a classic, minimalist vibe, check out this sculpting swimsuit from Knix. It has just the right amount of compression to hold in your tummy without squeezing too tight, while the UPF 50+ fabric provides sun protection and looks good while doing it. The top has a square neck and provides medium coverage while the high-cut bottom is has a cheeky behind that looks good on everyone. You can get it in a few different colors in sizes XS-XXXXL.
A Summersalt bikini with a ruched high-rise bottom
For a bit of ruching along the bottom and a chic one-shoulder top, look no further than Summersalt. This bikini looks like something Grace Kelly would have worn, and it's currently on sale with code SALE30 at checkout. You can get it in sizes 2–22 in a wide range of colors for the bottom, though the top is currently only available in classic black.
A plus-size high-waist bikini with feminine details
There's something especially alluring about the sweet rosette and the ruching along the top of this pink bikini. Available in sizes 14–32, it has beautiful, sophisticated details that make it just as wearable at happy hour as it is by the pool or at the beach.
A sculpting swimsuit that is as chic as it is functional
This sultry bikini has a special secret: it's made with sculpting material that sucks you in without suffocating you, so you can feel confident at the beach with pals. I purchased this suit the summer after having my baby and can attest to it's smoothing prowess. I feel like myself in it, and love how flattering it is. You can get it in sizes XXS–3XL. The fit is easy, comfortable and perfect whether you're sunbathing (while wearing SPF) or splashing in the sea. You can get it in a range of colors, with a select few on sale.
Promising review: “I love this swim bottom. In denim, I usually wear a 28. I have an athletic build - but am also a mom with some extra skin and softness on my belly. The medium bottoms fit me perfectly and are very flattering.” — Sarahsevs
A gorgeous bikini with a front tie closure
The classic silhouette of this high-waist bikini has a modern spin with a low-cut neckline and a kicky bow tie at the front. It is made with soft, ribbed fabric and a supportive waistband that won't cut into your skin. It also features high-cut legs and moderate booty coverage, so you can show a little skin without feeling too exposed. Get it in one of nine colors in sizes XS–XL.
Promising review: “Obsessed. As someone who has dreaded buying bathing suits since having children, this one is a godsend. The material is absolute quality. Worth the price and then some. Will be a lifetime customer” — Katie Houck
A vibrant and textured high-waisted bikini
This ultra-flattering and cool bikini has a classic, almost vintage silhouette, that's been modernized with the addition of flirty ruching at the bust and waistline and a striped texture along the top and bottom. It's available in sizes XS–XL.
Promising reviews: “These bottoms are fabulous. I wanted a high leg, but one that is age appropriate. Also, I like the idea of the bottoms sitting a bit higher on my waist (and more forgiving) but cannot embrace the high waisted straight across - I feel like I am wearing granny panties ;-). These are the perfect hybrid of style but age appropriate. Thick enough to hold their shape and keep me in where I may need a little extra support. I have an athletic build, but a few pounds heavier than I like.” — Port girl
“Purchased this with the matching bottoms. I like the thick straps but feminine look. It is supportive, but does not look like a sports bra. I range in size, but purchased up a size on this one and it was perfect. Classy yet youthful and age appropriate. Highly recommend.” — Port girl
A sweet high-waisted bikini at Amazon
This bikini set is a lovely, flirty option. The top is swingy, easy and flattering, providing coverage while still showing plenty of skin thanks to supportive spaghetti straps. It's available in sizes XS to XXL.
Promising review: “I LOVE this bathing suit!! You are wearing a two piece without looking like you are wearing a two piece. The bottoms are high waisted and with the ruffle top you barely show any skin. I’m a high waisted bikini queen since having my son (iykyk) and I love how high the bottoms run. The bottoms are also not too cheeky. I sized up to an XL for my large 36D chest. Love the suit so much!!” — The Sheffer family
A 90s-inspired high-waisted bikini
Available in a wide variety of colors, textures and patterns in sizes XS–XXXL, this effortlessly cool bikini has a high-cut leg evocative of Cindy Crawford In the '90s. It's sexy and elegant all at once. As a reviewer pointed out, it's cheeky without being scandalous.
A bandeau top and high-waisted bikini
If you love a tube top, then you're going to want to check out this fun bikini at Amazon. There are 54 colors and patterns to choose from, so you can enjoy this classic silhouette in the color that best fits your aesthetic. It's available in sizes S–XXL.
Promising reviews: “Love this suit. One of my favs. Apparently my friend loved it too because I loaned it to her and never got it back. I’m ordering another. Buy it!” — Hollee
“I purchased this for my vacation in Mexico. It fits true to size. Covered my problem areas such as my tummy. Also I am bigger busted and never had it fall or roll at all. Got so many compliments as well.” — Crystal
A popular Blooming Jelly high-waisted bikini
This moderately cheeky bikini bottom has a high waist that is slimming and comfy, while the sexy top comes with adjustable spaghetti straps and a removable padded insert. It's fun without being overly complicated and available in sizes XS–XL.
Promising review: “This is one of my favorites!! I am a mom of 8 and have recently lost a lot of weight, so I'm always looking for cute items to wear to show off my curves, but control the tummy. This bikini did not disappoint and I received lots of compliments while on vacation.“ — Christine
A printed bikini with a fluttery top
Cocoship is a fave Amazon swimsuit brand among my colleagues at HuffPost, no doubt in part thanks to their unique silhouettes and flattering cuts. This two-piece features a ruched high waist, while the fluttery top has criss-cross straps. It's available in sizes S–4LX in different color and pattern combinations.
Promising reviews: “I have tried nearly every high waist bikini and this is the first one that I’ve liked. I’m an apple shape so the ruffle top is the opposite of what traditionally flatters my shape. Usually I’d order things that accentuate the narrow area below my bust but the reviews and photos sold me so I gave it a try. It’s so cute!!!!! I wore this to my sisters house knowing she’d tell me if I looked ridiculous and even she complimented how flattering it is. It’s a miracle!!
I do find the shorts could be higher cut on the sides to make them more flattering but I won’t complain. The print is pretty and I feel great finally finding a cute full coverage high waist swimsuit. Love the style and so glad I can finally feel confident in one.” — MostOkayestMom
A beloved Left On Friday swimsuit
Another HuffPost editor fave, this bikini comes in an eclectic variety of colors and patterns. It has a comfy fit with a medium-cut leg and moderate booty coverage. The bottoms are a bestseller for the brand and can easily be mixed and matched with a variety of tops. You can get them in sizes S–XL.
Promising review: “I've only started wearing two piece swimsuits in my 40s (why not, right?!) and this top (along with the Hi Tide bottom) made me feel confident strutting on the beach. It was surprisingly supportive and comfortable. The material is soft, but held me in at all the right places. Thanks LOF!” — Anne S.