See Through Bikinis

What Does “See-Through” Mean in Swimwear?

“See-through” describes the fabric, not the coverage. Swimwear sits on a transparency spectrum: semi-sheer mesh that lets a little skin show, see-through fabric that reveals more, and fully transparent styles where the fabric is almost the point. Mesh, fishnet, lace and ice-silk are the fabrics that do most of the work.

Transparency and coverage are separate choices. A fully transparent one-piece and a semi-sheer micro bikini are both see-through, with very different amounts of fabric — and opacity can change when wet, so it’s worth checking the lining and fabric details on each listing.

See-through = a fabric choice; coverage = a style choice. This collection is about the fabric.

See-Through Styles in This Collection

The transparency spectrum shows up across every silhouette here:

• Mesh bikinis and sets — the most common see-through style, from sport mesh to fine fishnet
• Transparent fabric bikinis, including micro and Brazilian cuts
• Sheer one-pieces and monokinis with mesh panels or transparent stripes
• Lace and ice-silk details that mix coverage with transparency
• See-through cover-ups to layer over any suit

Prices run from about $17 to $58, and sizes from XS to XL with a few one-size pieces.

Pick the transparency level first — semi, see-through or full — then the silhouette.

Wearing See-Through Swimwear: Lining and Wet Opacity

The question that comes up most: does it show more when wet? For many light, mesh and unlined fabrics, yes — thin nylon, cotton and light polyesters can turn nearly transparent once wet. Styles in this collection vary, so the honest answer is on the listing: check the fabric and lining details before you buy.

If you want opacity you can rely on, look for lined or double-lined pieces and darker colors; if the see-through effect is the point, unlined mesh and transparent styles deliver it. Either way, a cover-up in the bag gives you the option to change the look in seconds.

Read the fabric details, plan for wet opacity, and carry a cover-up.

Where to Wear See-Through Swimwear

See-through styles fit the bold end of summer contexts: pool parties, beach clubs, resort pools, festivals and photoshoots. The transparent look is a statement, and the occasions that suit statements are the ones that suit these suits.

Decency rules vary — what’s fine at a private beach club may not be on a public beach, and local laws differ by city and state. When in doubt, check the venue or local regulations, and reach for a cover-up or lined style for family-friendly settings.

Wear the transparency you’re comfortable with, in places that allow it.

How to Choose a See-Through Bikini

Work through four decisions:

• Transparency level: semi-sheer, see-through or fully transparent
• Silhouette: bikini set, one-piece, monokini or cover-up
• Lining: unlined for effect, lined for opacity you can rely on
• Occasion: pool parties and beach clubs suit the boldest; family settings may want a cover-up

Sizes run XS to XL with some one-size pieces — check the size chart on each listing.

Start with the transparency level, then the silhouette, then the occasion.