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All the Different Swimsuit Types and Styles That Exist, in Case Ya Didn’t Know

Wow, there are actually a lot of possibilities.

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Courtesy Aerie; MBM Swim

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Swimsuit shopping is tricky as hell. Online shopping has the potential risk-factor of buying something that may not fit totally correctly, and it's equally as frustrating to try on bikinis in an unflattering fitting-room mirror. On top of all of that, you've got a bajillion fabulous swimwear brands to choose from. Thankfully, picking out the right bathing suit is about to get easier—because we're about to share some knowledge about all the types and styles out there.

Now, time to do a little fashion homework. You won't be confused or intimidated by all the different categories out there after checking out this list of the many, many beach-ready silhouettes to choose from, below. It's got all the bikinis and one-pieces you may encounter on your next bathing suit-shopping adventure! Maybe it's time to go ahead and finally take that girl's trip out of the group chat and into IRL.

Our top picks for the best swimsuit styles to shop in 2024:


But that's not all the swimsuit content Cosmo has for ya. Happy to introduce you to an endless list of cute swimwear brands to get you in a great summer mood. And of course, give Black designers the support they deserve by shopping at any of these Black-owned brands that offer gorgeous swimwear lewks. Plus, you can indulge in these retro bathing suits so you can live your best vintage dreams, shop gender-neutral swim, and discover your must-have maternity swimsuit. But first, your guide to your perf swimsuit type awaits!

This style is a high neck version of a crop top tank. Take a walk on the wild side in this textured cheetah print version of the style.

What makes this a bandeau is the "band" effect across the chest (duh) and the lack of shoulder straps. The cool part about this spicy one is that you can wrap it however you want!

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Two regular shoulder straps and a band that clasps in the back? Yup, the bikini top is just like a traditional bra. Plus, you can give yourself some support in the form of...underwire! Feeling daring? This magic top brings ya an extra two cup sizes; it's basically a pushup bra for a bikini top!

This cute grape colored bikini gives off the look and feel of a knotted tee!

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Cut-outs can be anywhere on a suit, but this one is right in the midriff with a deep v plunge neckline. Look at this modern take on a vintage '60s inspired one-piece! The elastic around the middle offers some support, if you're into that.

A one-piece long sleeve suit almost feels like a body suit and when there's a zipper involved, that means you can cover as little or as much as you want. I take sun protection seriously and so does this rash guard suit. I'd still bring extra sunscreen but it's safe to say your arms will be well defended from the sun.

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A high-waisted bikini is a swim bottom that covers your belly button and your hips for added coverage. They're trusty as hell and typically ensure you have extra tummy support. This floral aesthetic is a win in my book!

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Instead of a traditional bikini bottom, you can opt for a classic boy-short style—they fit below the belly button and offer a fuller coverage on your hips and your butt (so you won't be tugging at your suit for fear of any slip ups). Now you can avoid sandy cheeks if you lay out with this pair of hot pink shorties!

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A sweetheart neckline is easy enough to remember because it always includes a heart shaped outline on the chest. Consider this beaut your LBD of bathing suits, this sleek one-piece is ready for any vacay, pool party, last minute beach trip, and it will always be perfect. I pack this one for any family trip, or when I simply want to look mysterious and glam with sunnies on by the edge of a pool. Strapless one-pieces are total classics.

Ruffles add volume and instant interest on anything—especially on the straps of a v-neck suit top. They're also the perfect excuse to book that vacation—I mean, hello. Throw on a skirt and you're ready for your poolside lunch in a jiff.

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The cut of a high-leg bottom is above the hip and it dips into a v shape for extra drama. This retro '80s inspired suit feels like a playful addition to any vacation wardrobe. High-leg bottoms are a must if you're obsessed with your limbs!

A long sleeve wetsuit usually includes a higher neckline like this style. The boy-short bottom ensures you feel secure in it, too! Maybe I will take up surfing this year if that'll mean I get to wear a chic black and white animal-print wetsuit like this one!

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A bandeau top of this nature sits like a band on the front of the chest but offers straps too. Immediately yes. This particular cutie makes for the sweetest pop of color on any summer day.

The defining u-shaped neckline is what gives a scoop neck it's signature classic look. Click "add to cart" on this lilac top that gives you ample support while still looking cute!

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This tankini replicates the look and feel of a tank top! A tankini top offers more interest with a strap that wears as a halter. Having drinks poolside? Good news: tankinis look like a going out top! Oh, and get this—this one is reversible too!

Ruffles make anything cuter, amirite? The ones on this suit are on the sides of the shoulders for a chic twist on a one-piece suit with a plunging v-neck. The ruffle-sleeved suit serves up whimsical vibes that one-piece loyalists will love. Typically featuring wider straps with sleeves that flutter outwards, this flirty style tends to balance those slightly covered-up shoulders with a plunging deep V neckline and open back.

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This one is exactly what it sounds like—triangles that keep ya covered up where you need it!

A bustier is a snug-fitting strapless top. Normally, it's wider than a regular bra strap, so it gives more coverage on the sides of the chest. This stunner looks like a fancy top but we all know the truth! Also, behind the 3D florals is an adjustable spaghetti strap!

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Want some extra coverage even when you're in the pool? Allow me to intro you to this tank-style swim dress. A swim dress gives you wrap around fabric all over your torso, while still looking chic. Who says you have to pick between a dress and a suit? You'll feel like a mermaid in this glittery, coral number.

A traditional halter top is characterized by a plunging v-neck design and it ties at the neck. Additionally, a halter top gives you more support than your regular top and it takes the pressure off of your shoulders (since it ties at the neck for all day comfort and glam).

Headshot of Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien

Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien is the fashion editor at Cosmopolitan, writing weighty and witty stories that run the gamut of gushing over Zendaya to convincing you of everything you need in your closet! She began her journey in the industry with a fashion and faith blog and an internship at Elle about 10 years ago. Since then, she's also served as the style editor at The Haitian Times. The Haitian-American pageant queen is Miss Supranational Haiti 2024, a Syracuse Masters graduate, and the author of three books, including: Claim Your Crown. Follow her on Instagram and TikTok: @iamtarahlynn.

Headshot of Belle Bakst
Belle Bakst is a NYC-based fashion editor and content creator. Her work has been featured in Cosmopolitan, InStyle, Harper's Bazaar, Brides, and more. When she's not researching this season's best shoes, you can find her vlogging a sample sale, or thrifting in Manhattan. Follow @littlefashionstylist on Instagram and TikTok for outfit inspo, vintage jewelry hauls, and the occasional Bergdorf Goodman selfie.
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