High Waisted Bikinis

What is a high waisted bikini?

A high waisted bikini is a two piece with a bottom that sits at or above the natural waistline. The waistband covers more of the midsection than a mid or low rise bottom, and the top can be any cut — halter, triangle, bandeau or push up.

In this edit, the high waist comes in three shapes: a straight retro waistband, a ruched front panel, and a high cut leg line that keeps the waist high while opening up the hip.

If you are used to mid rise bottoms, expect the fit to sit about two inches higher. That is the whole point.

Why swimmers keep coming back to high waists

The wide waistband stays put. When you swim, climb or walk for hours at a long beach day, a high rise band does not roll or ride up the way a low rise string bottom can.

• Coverage where you want it — the front panel is solid while the leg line still reads high cut in many styles
• The retro shape pairs with almost any top — halter, bandeau, or a cropped cover up for a layered look
• Ruched, polka dot, floral and solid options in one pool, from about $19 to $78

How to choose a high waisted bikini

• Start with the waist. High waisted bottoms size on your waist — if you are between sizes, take the one that fits the waistband snug, not your hips
• Pick the leg line next. Straight cuts cover more of the upper thigh; high cut legs open the hip line. Both keep the same rise
• Then match the top. Halter and triangle tops balance a high waist bottom; push up and padded tops suit fuller busts
• In this edit you can rebuild the set from the bottom up — the bottom is the anchor

High waisted styles in this edit

• Ruched high waists with a gathered front panel
• Polka dot and floral prints for retro energy
• Solids in black, white, red, neutrals and brights
• String high waists with side ties for a lighter feel
• Plus size high waists across the edit

How to Choose a High-Waisted Bikini

Work through four decisions:

• Waist coverage: cheeky, moderate or full-coverage bottoms
• Waistline treatment: ruched, belted, banded or wrap
• Top style: push-up, halter, bandeau, V-neck or high-neck
• Fit: check waist placement and torso-friendly sizing on each listing

Sizes run XS to XL plus plus-size pieces — check each listing’s chart.

Waist coverage first, then the treatment, then the top.