These 25 Retro Bathing Suits Are a Vintage Dream
Nostalgia vibes tuggin' at your heartstrings.
We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we love. Promise.
When thinking about "retro style," does the image of Betty Boop wearing a polka-dot bathing suit instantly pop up in your mind, or is it just me? We're def onto something with that lil thought bubble, but while the word "retro" in a fashion context may conjure images of pinup girls in high-waisted swimsuits, the term actually applies to all past decades, just like "vintage" does! If you're a nostalgic person, you're prob into reviving old styles into your everyday–especially your swimwear. Maybe that's because it's just way easier to switch up your entire vibe in swim styles as opposed to your everyday looks, because there's not as much material to work with! Or, maybe there's just something about being near a pool that makes you feel your most carefree, adventurous, and open to trying to new things all at the same time.
Whatever it is, we feel ya and we're here to help you find an iconic retro bathing suit style! Considering there are seriously endless vintage swimsuit designs that are still pretty popular today, you may be interested in a few of your own. We've curated a diverse list of the best retro bathing suits you need to live out your beach bum dreams. Oh, and if you're typically not as into retro fashion, brace yourself. You just might be converted by these super chic examples below!
Our top retro bathing suit picks of 2023:
Keep scrolling for a deep dive (see what I did there?) of vintage swimsuits and see if you're ready to be a whole retro mood the next time you take to the water (or just wanna bask in the sun)! From high-waisted styles to lowback and other fab one-pieces, here are all the all the swimsuit vibes you need.
We love a black & white moment, don't we? This look is perfectly simple and stylish.
We obviously had to include gingham! This adorable set is perfect for hangin' pool side or for your next lunch date.
This ditzy floral print is romantic and timeless. Also, these removable shoulder details are major!
This stunner is reminiscent of the suit Rachel McAdams wears in The Notebook... if you're a bird, I'm a bird, right?!
Here's a nod to the 1950s with this playful cherry-print number featuring a halter neckline and ruching details.
Lisa Marie Fernandez Poppy Button-Embellished Bikini
Honestly can't get over the button details on this high-waisted style. The mix and match colors = classic glamour. You'll be sure to stand out like the vintage queen you are.
I don't make the rules...but polka dots never go out of style! This suit provides support with built in soft cups and coverage with a seam at the natural waist. We love to see it.
Mama Mia. The design of this set is reminiscent of a few different stylish decades. Def add this one to your cart if you're all about old-Hollywood vibes.
Get into this coral! Inspired from a 1960s original style, this bikini is a vintage gal's dream.
This eye-catching suit is an instant example of bridging the gap between vintage and current! The mosaic pattern, belted waist, and trim details are fabulous!
Calling all ladies in waiting! This lavender swimsuit is giving Bridgerton in all the best ways.
Send peace, love, and all the positive vibes everywhere you go in this groovy, geo-print bikini.
This gorgeous blue one-piece is sleek and racks up instant cool girl points. We're v into that link belt, too.
Grace Kelly meets Marilyn Monroe with this lady-like black and white set—we are talking ultimate, it-girl beach fit.
'90s Barbie gals, get yourself this cute pink number! (Square necklines were staples then.) This swimsuit features a supportive silent underwire and sculpting side-ruching.
This one-piece features fun suspender-style rings and cutouts to really amp up the '80s workout-meets-beach babe look.
This highly-rated swimsuit features a sweetheart neckline, ruched padded cups, and bum coverage. It's the classic polka-dot fashion bombshell feel you've been waiting for!
You'll tap into eclectic vibes wherever you are in this fun print! Throw on your favorite oversized sunnies and transport back to the '70s in no time!
Bring all the drama to the beach with some ruffle action! This solid, white bikini is fully lined and sure to bring out your flirty side.
This one boasts a scoop neckline and full-coverage bottoms with a darling A-line dress silhouette. Complete with an all over '70s-inspired bouquet print, this breezy style is ready to make a splash!
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.
Laynie Rouch is the Fashion Assistant at Cosmopolitan where she has a hand in all things fashion. She covers the Scandinavian, Australian and Asian markets as well as homeware, denim, lingerie, and swimwear. In between editorial shoots she contributes to shopping pages and trend roundups online. Laynie has previously worked for Harper’s BAZAAR and InStyle Magazine. Find her on Instagram and follow along!
Readers Also Read
58 Best Gifts for Men, From Thoughtful to Cool
The 55 Best Gift Ideas for Women, Period
62 Trendy Gifts for Tween Girls That Can't Miss
47 Gift Ideas Mom Won't Stop Talking About
