The versatility and creativity of modern swimsuits make them essential pieces for every woman’s wardrobe. From classic one-pieces to daring bikinis and sporty designs, each style serves a different purpose and personality. With so many options available, it’s easy to find a swimsuit that flatters your body shape, fits your comfort level, and reflects your personal style.
When choosing a swimsuit, consider factors like support, coverage, and fabric quality. Some designs feature adjustable straps or shaping panels for a better fit, while others focus on aesthetics through bold cuts, prints, or textures. Understanding the various types of swimsuits can help you make an informed choice that enhances both confidence and style.
In this guide, we’ll explore 23 different types of swimsuits—from timeless silhouettes to trend-setting designs—to help you or your brand discover the ideal options for every collection or occasion.
The one-piece swimsuit is the timeless icon of the swimwear world. Known for its simplicity and coverage, it combines elegance with practicality.
Modern one-pieces come in many variations: high-cut legs for a longer silhouette, plunging necklines for a daring edge, or ruched panels for tummy control.
They’re ideal for all body types and a must-have in any brand’s core collection.
Once known as a topless statement piece in the 1960s, today’s monokini has evolved into a stylish hybrid between a one-piece and a bikini. It often features side or front cutouts, creating a connected yet revealing look.
The monokini is a favorite among resortwear designers aiming for a balance between boldness and sophistication.
The underwire bikini combines style with structure, offering built-in support similar to that of an underwire bra. It’s designed to lift and shape the bust while maintaining a flattering silhouette, making it ideal for women who prefer extra support without sacrificing elegance.
This style comes in countless variations—balconette, demi-cup, or plunge—allowing brands to cater to different preferences and body types.
This universally loved style features triangular cups and adjustable string ties around the neck and back. It’s minimal, feminine, and easy to customize with prints or embellishments.
Triangle bikinis are especially popular for beach vacations and photo-ready collections due to their adjustable fit and flattering simplicity.
The bandeau bikini, also known as the tube top bikini, offers a strapless look perfect for tanning without shoulder marks. While minimalist, it can include ruching, padding, or removable straps for extra support. This style appeals to resortwear shoppers and brands focused on clean, elegant silhouettes.
Halter bikinis tie around the neck, providing enhanced bust support and lift. Their adjustable design suits many body types, especially those seeking both style and stability.
Many brands use halter tops for retro-inspired collections or athletic swimwear lines.
A high-neck bikini is a type of bikini top that extends higher up the chest, covering more of the neckline compared to traditional bikini styles. Instead of a deep scoop or plunge, it features a neckline that sits close to or above the collarbone.
It’s a versatile option that suits various body types and can transition easily from the beach to casual wear when paired with shorts or a skirt.
A nod to vintage glamour, the high-waisted bikini features bottoms that rise above the navel, sculpting the waist and elongating the legs. This style is flattering for many body shapes and offers a comfortable alternative to low-rise designs. It’s a cornerstone for retro-inspired and sustainable swimwear collections alike.
The tankini blends the freedom of a bikini with the coverage of a tank top. It’s a popular choice for those who prefer a modest yet versatile look. Many maternity and family swimwear lines include tankinis due to their comfort, ease of wear, and flexibility for different body stages.
Built for performance, sport swimsuits are made with durable, chlorine-resistant fabrics like PBT or polyester blends.
They’re designed to stay in place during intense movement and often feature racerback or cross-strap designs for better support. Perfect for athletes, training wear, and active lifestyle brands.
Originally created for surfers, the rash guard has become a staple in modern active swimwear. It’s a fitted, quick-drying top that protects the skin from UV rays and friction.
Brands frequently pair rash guards with board shorts or leggings for water sports and family-friendly collections.
Combining the femininity of a summer dress with the function of swimwear, the swim dress is designed for comfort and modesty. It usually includes a built-in bottom and a flared hem that flatters all body types.
This style resonates well with mature or family-oriented markets.
A shorter alternative to the swim dress, skirted swimsuits feature a small attached skirt that provides extra coverage around the hips. They’re perfect for women who prefer subtle modesty without sacrificing style. Many designs include tummy-control panels for shaping support.
The long-sleeve one-piece is trending among both surfwear and luxury brands. It offers full upper-body coverage, UV protection, and a streamlined silhouette.
With sleek zippers or bold prints, it bridges the gap between functionality and fashion, making it perfect for sustainable and performance collections.
This daring one-piece features a deep V-neckline that elongates the torso and enhances the body’s natural curves. Often used in luxury or resort collections, the plunge swimsuit embodies confidence and sophistication. It’s best suited for photo-ready designs and statement pieces.
The cutout swimsuit is a modern favorite that uses artistic openings at the waist, sides, or back to create visual intrigue.
When strategically placed, these cutouts flatter the body shape and add a high-fashion element. For brands, it’s a creative way to reinvent the classic one-piece.
Effortlessly elegant, the backless swimsuit leaves the back exposed while maintaining front coverage. It’s popular for upscale resortwear and minimalist designs. When paired with soft fabrics or metallic finishes, it creates a sophisticated, timeless appeal.
The Brazilian bikini is characterized by its minimal rear coverage and flattering V-shaped back. It enhances curves and gives an illusion of longer legs. This design represents confidence, body positivity, and sensuality—making it a favorite in Latin American and tropical markets.
A bolder evolution of the Brazilian cut, the thong bikini provides minimal coverage at the back for a sleek, contemporary look. It’s trending among fashion influencers and destination brands targeting younger, daring audiences.
For manufacturing, ensuring secure seams and durable stretch fabrics is key.
The micro bikini is designed for minimal coverage and maximum visual impact. It’s often used in niche markets, swim photoshoots, or luxury fashion lines. While not for everyday wear, it highlights craftsmanship, material quality, and confidence-driven marketing.
The one-shoulder swimsuit is a sleek and contemporary style defined by its single strap and asymmetric neckline. It creates an elegant, sculpted look that highlights the shoulders and collarbone while offering comfortable support.
This design works beautifully in both one-piece and bikini forms, often paired with high-cut legs or textured fabrics for a refined, fashion-forward finish.
The modest swimsuit is designed for women seeking full coverage while maintaining style and comfort. It typically includes long sleeves, leggings, and a tunic-style top made of quick-drying, stretchable fabric.
Popular among conservative markets, modest swimwear emphasizes functionality, sun protection, and elegance—making it a growing category in global swimwear fashion.
Plus-size swimwear celebrates body diversity through thoughtful cuts, supportive cups, and shaping fabrics.
Details like ruching, adjustable straps, and tummy control help create flattering silhouettes. Inclusive sizing is not only a trend but a business essential for modern swimwear brands.
When building a swimwear collection, understanding your target audience is key. Here’s how to align swimsuit types with your market focus:
| Brand Type | Recommended Styles |
|---|---|
| Luxury & Resort Brands | Monokini, Plunge, Backless, Cutout, Bandeau |
| Active & Sports Brands | Sport Swimsuit, Rash Guard, Long-Sleeve One-Piece, High-Neck Bikini |
| Sustainable Brands | One-Piece, High-Waisted, Triangle Bikini in Recycled Fabrics |
| Inclusive Brands | Plus-Size, Maternity, Tankini, Skirted Swimsuit |
| Youth & Trend-Driven Brands | Thong, Micro, Halter, Brazilian, Cutout Styles |
For manufacturers, offering these styles in customizable fabrics—like recycled nylon, polyester blends, or sustainable spandex—can attract both boutique and wholesale clients.
Fabrics with UV protection, chlorine resistance, and high stretch retention are increasingly in demand.
The swimsuit industry has evolved far beyond one-size-fits-all designs. Today, every type tells a story—about confidence, inclusivity, and innovation. From timeless one-pieces to high-performance rash guards, these 23 swimsuit types represent the full spectrum of fashion and function.
For brands, understanding these styles isn’t just about design variety—it’s about connecting with diverse customers around the world. Whether your niche is luxury resortwear or custom swimwear, mastering these silhouettes will help your brand grow and stand out in the global market.
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