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Soak Up The Sun In The 15 Best String Bikinis

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by A. Graham
Updated: 
Originally Published: 
Bustle / Amazon

When it comes to two-piece bathing suits, there are countless styles to choose from. One in particular, though, transcends trends: the string bikini. Casual, unfussy, and perfect for soaking up the sun without too many tan lines (and with plenty of SPF!), the best string bikinis are adjustable, versatile, and perennial classics — staple pieces you’ll wear all summer long. Most feature neck, back, and side ties, too, meaning you can easily customize the way they fit (or jump on the upside-down bikini top trend that’s all over Instagram).

Whether you rely on padding for coverage or you’re a minimalist who automatically removes it, I’ve noted which suits below have this feature so you can shop accordingly. If you’re wanting even more support up top, not to fear — this list also includes options with sculpted cups, and even underwire. If you’re ready to jump on the barely-there bandwagon, why not try a cheeky, minimal-coverage bottom (or even a thong)? On the opposite end of the spectrum, I’ve included a few options with a bit more coverage down below — and some of the suits on this list even come with chic matching cover-ups. And because caring for your swimwear after a day at the pool or beach is also paramount, I’ve made note of which options are machine-washable, and which should be washed by hand.

Though string bikinis themselves are all ease, finding the right one for you amidst endless options can be overwhelming and time-consuming. That’s where this list comes in. Ahead you’ll find 15 of the most highly-rated string bikini options on Amazon, so you can ‘add to cart’ with confidence. Scroll on to shop!

1

The Classic String Bikini You’ll Want To Buy In Multiples

Available in 27 colors and prints, this cult-favorite string bikini features all the hits: an adjustable halter neck and tie back, adjustable side ties on the bottoms, and a stretchy nylon-spandex construction that Amazon reviewers call “thick and comfortable.” Removable pads offer coverage and support, while a low-rise, medium-coverage bottom won’t show too much cheek. This is about as classic as they come, so you may want to stock up for summer.

Glowing review: “I’ve tried probably 10+ bathing suits from amazon looking to find one that fits right, IS NOT a thong, has padding, and ties on the sides and this is it. I bought it in black also because I love how it fits so much. It still has a cheeky bottom but it provides far more coverage than any suit I’ve purchased within the last few years. I highly recommend this suit!”

  • Available colors: 27
  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large

Removable Padding: Yes | Machine Washable: Yes

2

A Minimalist String Bikini With A Thong Bottom

This simple and streamlined string bikini comes with a thong bottom that leaves little to the imagination — perfect for people who love a next-to-naked vibe — but removable padding in the top offers shape and support. In addition to almost every solid shade you could want (including the pretty aqua blue pictured above), it’s available in a handful of prints, like snakeskin and florals. The manufacturer doesn’t specify whether this is machine-washable, but one reviewer noted that it held up nicely in the wash — though to be on the extra-safe side, you may want to stick with hand-washing this one.

Glowing review: “Perfect for the fit I was looking for. The color makes me look more tan. I can tie the top in 10 different ways for many styles. It’s thick quality material that holds its shape. It’s the same color on the inside, which is important so white doesn’t show on the edges of the suit. Fits as expected Going to buy more colors.”

  • Available colors: 34
  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large

Removable Padding: Yes | Machine Washable: Not Specified

3

A ’90s-Inspired String Bikini That Comes With A Matching Scrunchie

A high cut, ruching detail, and an included matching scrunchie give this string bikini — which would look right at home on the set of Baywatch — an on-trend, ’90s-inspired edge. The cheeky, ruched bottoms and adjustable ties scream “hot girl summer,” and it comes in 23 head-turning colors and patterns — leopard print, hibiscus flower, rainbow tie-dye, snakeskin, checker print, and more. Reviewers recommend washing this by hand to maintain the fabric’s shape.

Glowing review: “This suit is soooooo adorable!!! [...] The suit is very well made and comfortable, I love the ruching detail on the butt. The matching scrunchie is such a cute touch, I’ll def be wearing this a ton this summer.”

  • Available colors: 23
  • Available sizes: Small — Large

Removable Padding: Yes | Machine Washable: No

4

An Underwire String Bikini That Comes With A Matching Drawstring Dress

Not only does this string bikini come in 42 patterns — tie-dye, florals, leopard print, psychedelic swirls, and more — it also comes with a matching mini dress that features on-trend ruching with an adjustable drawstring and a super-deep V neck. If you’re not a dress person, not to worry — some styles come with a matching ruched mini skirt or flowy, cropped high-waisted pants instead, so you can fully customize your beach-to-cocktails look. A medium-coverage triangle top is reinforced with underwire, lending support, while bottoms come in two styles with varying levels of coverage. The brand doesn’t specify whether you can throw this in the washing machine, so for best results, stick with hand-washing.

Glowing review: “Omg. This is so cute. The top is perfect for my DD’s and I turned it upside down and criss-crossed the straps for more support/aesthetics. This is one of the first triangle bikinis that actually covers my [breasts] completely! I had no nip-slips. [...] the dress will rise as you walk so beware of that. Still would highly recommend! Soooo many compliments.”

  • Available colors: 42
  • Available sizes: Large Plus — 4X-Large Plus

Removable Padding: Yes | Machine Washable: Not Specified

5

An Extra-Cheeky String Bikini That Comes In Every Color & Print Imaginable

With a whopping 123 vibrant colors and prints to choose from, I wouldn’t be surprised if you ended up with more than one of this string bikini, which features a triangle halter top with removable padding and extra-cheeky side-tie bottoms that you can wear high- or medium-rise, depending on your preference. One reviewer admitted: “I’m buying every single print that I love before the summer ends.” The listing doesn’t include care instructions, so hand-washing is your best bet.

Glowing review: “I really love this bikini. I was worried about quality because of the price but it is a nice fabric and lined on the inside. I got a small and the sizing is accurate and fits well. The bottom is a little more revealing than I usually wear but I feel comfortable wearing it in public. I am really happy with the print and can't wait to wear this!”

  • Available colors: 123
  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large

Removable Padding: Yes | Machine Washable: Not Specified

6

A Bandeau-Style String Bikini With A Cute Keyhole Cutout

Consider this sweet string bikini swimwear’s answer to the cottagecore trend. Available in a range of colors, textures, and prints — from sweet florals to ribbed jewel tones — it boasts a keyhole cutout at the neckline and adjustable tie straps for optimal comfort and fit. Rather than your typical triangle top, the top is bandeau-style in front for a touch more coverage. Choose from several different bottom styles: one with adjustable side ties; one with a thicker high-rise V cut; and one with three skinny side straps. Hand-wash this for best results.

Glowing review: “This swimsuit is bangin! I wore this to a pool party in Vegas and got so many compliments. Everyone was shocked when I told them it was $20 on Amazon. The top [...] held me in very well- the strap between the cups is instrumental for security and also for making the girls look their best ;) The bottoms are high cut and very cheeky but I wouldn't say a ‘thong.’ Be ready though! I wore a sarong tied around my waist and felt totally comfortable.”

  • Available colors: 22
  • Available sizes: Small — Large

Removable Padding: Yes | Machine Washable: No

7

This Bright Bikini That Looks So Much More Expensive Than It Is

This adorable string bikini costs under $20 on Amazon, but hundreds of rave reviewers confirm that the quality far exceeds its price tag. It happens to be a great choice for those seeking a bit more support, thanks to its removable padding. Otherwise, between the adjustable side ties on the bottom and top — not to mention that eye-catching polka-dot print (along with nine more fun patterns, like camo and cherries) — this has all the trappings of a classic string bikini that’ll make you look and feel amazing.

Glowing review: “I am so pleased with this purchase. I wasn’t sure what to expect due to the price, but the bathing suit is quality material. Every bit as good as some of the more expensive brands [...] The print is cute and as a bonus (which I didn’t find noticeable in the product pictures) are the colors of the cherries. [...]I haven’t washed yet, so I can’t speak to how well it will hold up. However, based on the quality of the product, I don’t foresee any issues. For $25, if I only get 1 season out of it, then I still got my money’s worth! Buy it, you’ll love it.”

  • Available colors: 10
  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large

Removable Padding: Yes | Machine Washable: No

8

A Minimal-Coverage String Bikini That Comes In So Many Styles

If you prefer a barely-there swimsuit, this string bikini from Romwe — which features a minimal-coverage triangle top and a thong bottom, both with adjustable ties — is for you. Available in a range of styles — ruffles, cut-outs, ribbing, scallops, bows, extra straps — it’s the next best thing to wearing nothing at all. Removable padding lends a little extra support. Since the brand doesn’t mention care instructions, you’re best off hand-washing this set.

Glowing review: “This is the cutest bikini ever!! Such a trendy pattern, fits true to size and great quality. An amazing amazon find, love it!”

  • Available colors: 32
  • Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large

Removable Padding: Yes | Machine Washable: Not Specified

9

A String Bikini That Comes With A Matching Sarong

This three-piece string bikini includes an adorable matching mesh sarong for those moments when you’re craving a little extra coverage. What’s more, the sarong comes in two different styles: one with an asymmetrical side tie, or one with Y2K-inspired ruching (plus a fun drawstring feature, so you can control how much skin you show). Different styles and coverage options are available for the bikini bottoms, too: while some are cheeky with adjustable side ties, others offer a bit more coverage and thick (or skinny) side straps without ties. For even more customization, some styles come with underwire and/or removable pads. Reviewers recommend hand-washing this bikini. Also note that this runs small, so you may want to size up.

Glowing review: “This is one of the cutest bathing [suits] I've ever gotten! It's so simple, but the skirt really makes it pop. Love the quality as well! I would definitely go a size up fron what you usually get though cause if I would have gotten my regular size it wouldn't have fit”

  • Available colors: 63
  • Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large

Removable Padding: Yes | Machine Washable: No

10

A High-Cut Thong String Bikini With A Strappy Top

A triangle top with double spaghetti straps, a high-cut thong bottom, and an array of vibrant colors to choose from make this string bikini a true head-turner. A stretchy poly-spandex blend, an adjustable tie back, and adjustable straps lend extra comfort.

Glowing review: “definitely my favorite bikini I’ve ever bought! So comfortable and amazing quality for the money”

  • Available colors: 18
  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large

Removable Padding: Yes | Machine Washable: No

11

A Fuller-Coverage String Bikini With UPF Sun Protection

This sultry string bikini offers ample coverage up top, so those with larger cup sizes can wear it without worry. The bottoms, too, offer a bit more coverage than the average string bikini, so it’s appropriate to wear in front of kids or family. Plus, the material contains built-in UPF sun protection, so even though you’ll still need to slather on the sunscreen, you can lounge a little easier knowing you have an extra layer of protection.

  • Available colors: 4
  • Available sizes: XS — 4X

Removable Padding: Yes | Machine Washable: Yes

12

A Padded String Bikini Top For Extra Support

String bikinis aren’t generally for being the most supportive — but this triangle top is here to change that. Non-removable molded padding provides support and coverage, while a tie front makes it easy to adjust the distance between the cups for an optional push-up effect. For a more full-coverage look, the brand recommends going one size up from your usual. Keep in mind that this order only includes the bikini top, but you can find your perfect matching bottoms (in a huge range of styles) here.

Glowing review: “Highly recommend this! [...] The tie in the middle is perfect for adjusting cleavage. As stated, the top is stiff, but no stiffer than any other push up bikini I’ve ever had, and great for support. The material seems very high quality. Overall, I am very impressed.”

  • Available colors: 12
  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large

Removable Padding: No (molded cups) | Machine Washable: No

13

This Bold Neon Bikini At An Amazing Price

This classic string bikini comes in 32 fun colors and prints, including checkerboard, camouflage, florals, stripes, and several different animal prints. The top boasts removable pads so you can adjust the amount of support and coverage, while the bottoms feature a cheeky ruched seam detail that highlights your backside. At just $16, it’s a total steal, too. Care instructions aren’t listed, but a few reviewers confirm this is machine-washable on the delicate cycle.

Glowing review: “I absolutely loved this suit! I put it on for the first time Saturday and I really want to wear it every day LOL! I will be ordering another! It’s absolutely perfect!”

  • Available colors: 32
  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large

Removable Padding: Yes | Machine Washable: Not Specified

14

A String Bikini With Sweet Ruffle Detail

Scalloped ruffle trim adds a hint of cutesy flair to this string bikini, which comes in an array of sweet florals, polka dots, and solids. Lightweight removable padding adds a touch of extra support up top, while adjustable ties at the sides, neck, and back ensure a perfect fit. Multiple reviewers tout its “great quality” and “consistent sizing.” Try styling the top upside-down for a look that’s so on-trend.

Glowing review: “So cute! [...] I love the ruffles, and the pattern is bright [...] The cut makes it a little edgier. Love the ruching and minimal coverage of the back.”

  • Available colors: 13
  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large

Removable Padding: Yes | Machine Washable: No

15

A Statement-Making Metallic String Bikini

When you’re in the mood to turn some heads, a metallic string bikini like this one should do the trick. Endowed with all the classic string-bikini hits — an unpadded triangle top; adjustable ties at the neck, back, and sides — it also features a ruched seam at the back of the bottoms for a curve-accentuating pop. If metallic hues aren’t your thing, it’s also available in a range of non-metallic solid colors. This should be hand-washed to keep the finish from fading.

Glowing review: “I absolutely love it. This bathing suit looks so good. Gonna get some other colors. Bought a medium and it fit perfectly.”

  • Available colors: 30
  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large

Removable Padding: No | Machine Washable: No

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