The countdown to summer is on, and if you’re ready to make your swimwear debut, one of the best high-waist bikinis is a must-have. For years, the swimsuit style has been a staple in beach wardrobes, but with everyone eager to make a statement this summer, we see higher rises and higher cuts than ever before. High-waist bottoms are ideal for pool parties, sun-drenched rooftop sessions (with SPF, of course), and possibly your first warm-weather vacation since the pandemic began.
The high-rise fit is endlessly adaptable, combining the sexiness of a bikini with the coverage of a complete bathing suit—plus, it goes with nearly any top (think: bandeaus, triangle, or one-shoulder styles). What’s better? High-waist pants come in a variety of shapes to suit various body types: shorter torsos may choose a mid-rise bottom that merely kisses the belly button, while those with longer torsos may prefer an ultra-high-rise base that grazes the ribcage. Here are some brands that make shopping on a budget easier, coupled with getting your ideal bikini
1. Girlfriend Collective Aqua Poolside Bikini Bottom
Girlfriend Collective has released swimwear, and the styles are flying off the shelves. These eco-friendly bottoms come in sizes XXS to 6XL and are double lined with a seamless leg opening. If the hue is too shiny for you, the brand also offers it in black, Equator (a traditional taupe), Spritz (a Valencia orange), and Koi (a Japanese orange) (a poppy red).
2. Reformation Havana Bikini Bottom
Simple, comfortable, and stylish, with a broad waistband that rests high on the ribcage for plenty of coverage (large torsos, rejoice!). When you’re in the mood for a mid-rise look, fold the band over.
3. Vitamin A Barcelona Bottom
A leopard print belongs in every swimsuit collection. Vitamin A’s bottoms have a seamless fit (no tugging required), and the fabric—made from recycled nylon and Lycra—is so light and comfy that you’ll forget you’re wearing anything at all.
4. Oséree Color-Block Stretch-Lurex Bikini
With these patchwork bottoms by Oserée, you can get into the current ’70s vibe. The glistening Lurex fabric screams to be worn at a completely vaxxed beach party. Of course, if you wear it with the matching skirt, you’ll get bonus points.
5. Summersalt The High Legs High Rise Bottom
Summersalt’s size-inclusive bathing suits are engineered to fit a wide range of sizes and body types, making shopping for bikinis and one-pieces online a breeze. (In reality, the brand bases its design decisions on data and technology.) In addition, the starry-print bottoms are part of a limited-edition capsule with The Home Edit, and all of its swimwear is under $100. So, please take advantage of it before it sells out, as happened with last year’s Summersalt swim collaboration.
6. Mara Hoffman Tie-Dye Recycled Bikini Briefs
These high-waisted briefs from Mara Hoffman are crafted from recycled materials and come in a vivid watercolor print that we’re enjoying for summer. Because the briefs are double-lined, you won’t have any sheer moments, and the colors are so colorful, you can pair them with any basic top.
7. Monday Swimwear Byron Bottom
This bikini bottom’s crinkle, the towel-like texture is everything, and the baby-blue shade is perfect for summer. The cut doesn’t provide much coverage, but does it matter if you’re trying for full-on Baywatch vibes?
8. Leslie Amon Tamini Ruffled Bikini Brief
Slip into these sparkling blue pants with full coverage in the front and a cheeky back to transport yourself to the Caribbean. The ruffles are flattering on the hips, and the one-shoulder bikini top comes with a matching face mask. Who says you can’t have your cake and eat it too?
9. L*Space Frenchi Bitsy Bikini Bottom
Is it really summer unless you are wearing tie-dye? The L*Space high-rise bottoms come with a matching bandeau top and are the right mix of revealing and sensual. A white bottom-down and trek-y sandals complete the hook.