Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
The 25 Best High-Waisted Swimsuits, According to an Avid Beachgoer
There’s something for everyone here.
When it comes to bikinis and the best high-waisted swimsuits, one could say I’ve done my market research. In fact, some comments I’ve gotten from friends include, “How many bathing suits do you own?”, “Are you always on a beach?”, and the continual ask of, “When are you back from traveling?” (Cue: Me posting a picture of myself on the sand somewhere, bathing suit on, basking in the sun.) If the water is my favorite place to be, a high-waisted bikini is my favorite thing to wear.
With a high-waisted bikini, you don’t have to worry about placement or front coverage, and, most importantly, it almost always looks good. And with a ton of back coverage options (plus the obvious choices of different prints, colors, and designs—and that’s all available with plus-sized swimsuits, too), a high-waisted bikini will always remain in your swimsuit rotation—because there’s always an option. To help you find your best high-waisted swimsuit, go ahead and consult our picks (and if you need more, we have a guide to the best Amazon swimsuits, too). I promise you won’t be disappointed.
When I tell you I’m a Skatie super fan, I’m not lying. I have at least four suits by them, and they’re all super soft, nothing digs in, and everything just feels good. Plus, they have some of the most fun prints! These Monroe bottoms are no exception.
Customer review: “This is the most flattering, comfortable, and well-made suit I have ever owned. I couldn’t be more happy.”
Sizes: XS-XL
Colors: 32 options
Material: Recycled polyester
Cupshe Twist Swim Top & High-Waist Bottoms Bikini Set
This set is a steal at $33 for a top and bottom and features removable cups and adjustable straps for an even better fit. If you’re larger than a D cup, this one may not be for you, but as other reviewers note, it’s a flattering cut and pretty color.
Sizes: XS-XL
Colors: Blue
Material: Nylon, spandex, polyester
Athleta High Waist Swim Bottom
Athleta High Waist Swim Bottom
With an internal liner that provides extra hold, recycled nylon that is quick-drying, and a UPF rating of 50+ (to keep one protected), this Athleta style is ideal for any type of water sport, including paddling, surfing, and, of course, swimming. (Though if you want to just lay around, that works, too.) Most reviewers commented that the material is nice and thick, with great full coverage. All the good things.
Sizes: XXS-XL
Colors: Salvia Pink, Electric Green, Black
Material: Recycled nylon, spandex
Summersalt The Split High Leg High Rise Bikini Bottom
Summersalt The Split High Leg High Rise Bikini Bottom
Summersalt is known for its recycled fabric and great cuts, and this bikini is the perfect example. With colorblocking and high-cut legs, it’s both stylish and comfortable, and also has five times the strength and four times the compression of regular swimwear for a secure fit.
Customer review: “This suit is not only flattering, I feel sexy and fashion-forward!”
Sizes: 2-22
Colors: Sea Urchin/Sand, Lava/Hibiscus
Material: Recycled polyamide, elastane, spandex
FARM Rio Wonderful Toucans High Waist Bikini Bottoms
FARM Rio Wonderful Toucans High Waist Bikini Bottoms
This FARM Rio option is not only beautiful, but it fits great, with a cheeky cut and stretchy, high waist. Plus, for every FARM Rio item bought, the brand plants one tree as a partner with One Tree Planted.
Sizes: XS-XL
Colors: Wonderful Toucans Multicolor
Material: Polyamide, elastane
Billabong Cross Step Maui Rider High Waist Bikini Bottoms
Billabong Cross Step Maui Rider High Waist Bikini Bottoms
This chunky herringbone print is absolutely adorable, and the cut of these bottoms is killer. It features two rows of elastic at the top, so it’ll sit exactly where you want it, and is lightweight with a cheeky back.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: Brick
Material: Recycled nylon, elastane
Left on Friday Hi Tide Bottom
Left on Friday Hi Tide Bottom
Fade and snag resistant, these high-waisted bottoms are truly incredible—they hold up to, well, just about anything, are amazingly soft, and dry quickly. Plus, they come in a ton of colors that you can either match up for a set or mix and match (and bonus, the brand offers to guide you through that on its site).
Customer review: “I love the elegant simplicity of this suit. It sort of magically hugs without being tight and makes me feel sleek and strong, like a tiny superhero outfit. How cool to finally own a bathing suit that makes me feel happy.”
Sizes: XS-XXL
Colors: 33 options
Material: Nylon, polyester, Lycra
Everlane The High-Rise Hipster Bottom
Everlane The High-Rise Hipster Bottom
You know those suits that make someone look effortlessly cool? This is that one. With a hipster cut that looks great on pretty much everyone and a moderate-coverage back that shows off just enough, it’s pretty much perfect. In fact, Everlane tested this suit’s fit on 112 differently sized women to make sure it was up to snuff. (And it very much is.) And in black? Consider this your new LBB—little black bikini.
Customer review: “I love the fit of these bottoms. They hug the hips well and cover just enough in the back. Excellent fit. I am 5’3” and 130 lbs and ordered a size S, which is my normal size.”
Sizes: XXS-XXL
Colors: Black, Herb, Cornflower Blue, Navy, Tiger Stripe Toasted Coconut
Material: Regenerated nylon, elastane
Andie Swim The Shortie Bottom
This high-waisted Shortie bottom offers all the coverage you could want in the back and front, in fun finishes and prints that’ll catch some attention. Andie Swim consistently has some of the most flattering, comfortable suits out there—and the reviewers seem to agree as well.
Sizes: XS-XL
Colors: Holly
Material: Nylon, spandex
Solid & Striped The Beverly Ribbed Bottom
Solid & Striped The Beverly Ribbed Bottom
This classic high-waist bikini is absolutely adorable, and is cut to perfection. Pair it with one of their tops and you’ve got a classic style that you can wear for years to come. (And believe me, Solid & Striped suits hold up, so those years won’t show.)
Customer review: “Great fit and material, holds body in tight and looks flattering.”
Sizes: XS-XL
Colors: Ruby Red, Lime, White, Black
Material: Recycled polyamide, elastane
Knix Leakproof High Rise Bikini Bottom
Knix Leakproof High Rise Bikini Bottom
Whether you’re a pad wearer looking to avoid tampons (or other options) or just want extra security during the time of the month, Knix’s line of leakproof swimwear is so good. Not only does it live up to the name, but it also comes in an amazing size range.
Customer review: “As someone who hates tampons and loves swimming, I can’t even begin to express how amazing these bottoms are...it’s so comfy and no leakage at all, it holds so much, and I can swim worry-free!”
Sizes: XS-XXXXL
Colors: Safari
Material: Recycled polyamide, elastane
Kitty and Vibe High Hip Crossover Bottoms
Kitty and Vibe High Hip Crossover Bottoms
Kitty and Vibe swim works to have different sizes for your booty—you’ll never have too much or too little fabric covering your assets. This high-waisted style is great as it features a thick and soft waistband, a high-cut hip, and medium coverage. You take their fit quiz and—bam!—you’ve got the perfect suit.
Customer review: “PERFECT bathing suit! 10/10 highly recommend!! So cute and a great fit! Love the expanded sizing for booties and boobies!”
Size Range: S1-5XL2 (fitting to your bum, it’s basically a size S-5XL)
Color range: Margot, Esme
Material: Recycled polyester, elastane, polyamide nylon, Lycra
Madewell Second Wave Bikini Shorts Bottom
Madewell Second Wave Bikini Shorts Bottom
This option features short-length bottoms for full coverage and a retro-inspired fit. It also features recycled fabric and UPF 50 sun protection.
Customer review: “Lots of swimming bottoms are bikinis and they are quite revealing to me. But this one is perfect! Will buy more for next summer!”
Sizes: XXS-XXL
Colors: True Black
Material: Recycled nylon, elastane
Venus Shirred High-Waist Bottom
Venus Shirred High-Waist Bottom
With two seams along the front and back and a shirred, ruched texture, this suit is sure to flatter everyone. Bonus for many: it also features full back coverage.
Customer review: “The fit is extremely forgiving and flattering.”
Sizes: 4-24
Colors: Black Beauty, Red Hot
Material: Nylon, spandex
Spanx Pique Shaping High Rise Swim Bottom
Spanx Pique Shaping High Rise Swim Bottom
With adjustable side ruching, you’ll get the coverage you’re looking for, and with the double-layered fabric, everything will stay smooth and seamless. And really, can you ever go wrong with Spanx?
Sizes: XS-3X
Colors: Very Black
Material: Nylon, elastane
Aerie Ruched High Cut Cheeky Bikini Bottom
Can you get any cuter? Aerie offers the best of all worlds with a high waist, high-cut leg, and ruched front that shows your belly button while also still emphasizing your waist.
Customer review: “They cover all of the areas that I’m self-conscious about and the V in the front is flattering and slimming. The high-cut hips make my legs look like they go on for dayssssss.”
Sizes: XXS - XXL
Colors: 6 options
Material: Recycled nylon, elastane
Victoria’s Secret Emmy Bikini Bottom
This colorblocked option is sporty and works easily with any destination, activity, or look you’re going for. Plus, the “thick texture” (as one reviewer put it) makes sure everything looks smooth and stays put on every body type.
Customer review: “This bikini is so flattering!!!! I’m 5’4” 141 lbs size 36D and I got a large bottom and medium top and they fit perfectly!! So glad I bought this!”
Sizes: XS-XL
Colors: Cross My Heart, Be Mine Colorblock, Sundazed Colorblock, Black/White
Material: Polyester, spandex
Gabi Fresh Swim x ELOQUII Asymmetrical Super High Waisted Bikini Bottom
Gabi Fresh Swim x ELOQUII Asymmetrical Super High Waisted Bikini Bottom
Influencer Gabi Fresh does it again. Specifically made for sizes 14-32, this adorable bikini is perfect for your next vacation with its daring cutouts and high stretch. (Also, notice how it’s not priced even higher for plus-size? You can do it, brands.)
Sizes: 14-32
Colors: Lime green
Material: Nylon, spandex, metallic
J.Crew Heritage Swim Skirt
Inspired by J.Crew’s archives, this classic cut is going to be your new favorite. With a built-in bottom, this skirt is ideal for a full day of beach or vacation activities, or just when you want a full coverage option that conceals even more. PSA: it runs a bit small, so size up.
Sizes: XXS-3X
Colors: 6 options
Material: Polyamide, elastane
CUUP The Highwaist
CUUP The Highwaist
It makes sense that one of our favorite underwear brands nailed it with its swim collection. This high-cut brief swim style is perfectly tailored to enhance all the good stuff and is seamless to boot. It basically feels like you’re wearing nothing.
Customer review: “Perfect fit. Loved so much I purchased panties in the same size and fit that are also amazing.”
Sizes: XS-XXXL
Colors: 14 options
Material: Recycled polyamide, elastane
Samantha Leal is a writer, editor, and content strategist whose work centers around all things lifestyle—beauty, fashion, drinks, food, travel, and wellness (to name a few). Basically, all the good things in life. She holds a journalism degree from the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University, and has held roles at Well+Good, Marie Claire, Latina magazine, and The Knot. Her byline has appeared in Refinery29, Glamour, Teen Vogue, Apartment Therapy, and more.
Watch Next
The Launch: Fashion News To Know This May
The Best Gifts for New Dads to Add to Cart, Stat
Alo’s Celebrity-Approved Leggings Are All on Sale
16 Editor-Approved Picks for Mother’s Day
