I'm Calling It—These Will Be the Biggest Bikini Trends of 2021

Summer is finally right around the corner, despite how far it may feel to you right now. Before you know it, everyone will be wanting to head to the beach, layout, or at least post a lot of swimsuit photos from their homes and I am here to make sure you are fully up to speed on which bikinis you should buy should you choose to follow suit. Already, we have seen an influx of stunning new swimwear trends bubbling this spring which means by the time summer rolls around, the 8 bikini trends ahead will be straight poppin'.
Ahead, go on to read up on and shop the bikini trends you're about to see everywhere this summer from the one color that really matters to the kitschy new details you need to try. Featuring brands you know and shopping options that will overwhelm you (in a good way) you're about to crave a warm summer's day more than you ever have before, so brace yourself and enjoy.
Bubblegum
Bubblegum pink is not only one of the most popular color trends in the ready-to-wear space but the swimwear space as well. This very saturated, very bold hue is that little burst of joy we've been searching for everywhere this year.
Shop the matching The Annie Bottom ($110).
Shop the matching Ribbed Shine High Cut Cheeky Bikini Bottom ($23).
Flip It & Reverse It
What definitely originated as a DIY situation has now turned into one of the most talked-about bikini trends of 2021. Instead of taking a regular triangle bikini, turning it upside down, and tying the top around your back, swimsuit brands are now just selling tops that look like you did that, ensuring a fit that's a tad more secure.
Shop the matching Polka Bikini Bottoms ($90).
Shop the matching Vintage Chic Bikini Bottom ($130).
Shop the matching Mila Bottom ($69).
Really Retro Florals
This year, florals finally feel fresh again thanks to the retro take we've been seeing quite a of lot lately. Taking influence from both the '80s and '90s, these nostalgic prints are exactly what your swimwear collection has been missing.
Shop the matching Primavera Bikini Bottoms ($95).
Shop the matching Peace Hipster Bikini Bottom ($90).
Shop the matching + Net Sustain Marina Floral-Print Bikini Briefs ($89).
Mermaid Moments
This one feels a tad more whimsical than you might be used to, but if Versace is doing it, then it must be cool. Bikinis adorned with seashells, underwater landscapes, and mermaid-inspired tops are the new swimwear theme that's been hard to ignore, so enjoy the shopping selection of my favorites thus far.
Shop the matching Printed High-Waisted Bikini Bottoms ($332).
Shop the matching Robin Nero Brazilian Bikini Bottoms ($79).
Shop the matching Tie Bikini Bottom ($30).
Shop the matching Beaded Tulle-Trimmed Printed Bikini Briefs ($325).
Gorgeous Glitter
Glitter, glitter, and more glitter. Choosing just four bikinis to shop out in this trend section was one of the hardest things I've had to do in a long time. In other words, there is no shortage of glimmering glittering swimsuits this year, so I suggest you get your hands on your favorite take on the trend ASAP.
Shop the matching Good Waist Cheeky Bottom ($49).
Shop the matching Muliki Bottom ($140).
Terry Times
Honestly, what's a trend roundup these days without a subtle nod to the early 2000s? This newly reinstalled Y2K vibe is officially a lifestyle, and that means your bikinis are affected too, starting with the terrycloth trend. You probably never thought you'd see this trend rise again, but alas, it's emerged and it's pretty damn cute if I do say so myself.
Shop the matching Floral Terry Bikini Bottom ($85).
Shop the matching Martini Bottom ($70).
Shop the matching Towel Bikini Bottom ($30).
Zebra
This might not feel like the "newest" trend on the block, but now that we've called it out, you won't be able to stop seeing it. Animal prints are always a safe bet when it comes to swimwear, but this summer, zebra print is where it's at, period.
Shop the matching High-Waisted Secret-Slim Plus-Size Swim Bottoms ($32).
Shop the matching Elle Bottoms ($63).
Shop the matching The Brody Bottom ($88).
Shorts Stories
Last but not least, swim shorts. Vintage-inspired tiny shorts are the new barely-there thong, and honestly, thank goodness?
Shop the matching Jolanda Hipster Bikini Bottom ($90).
Shop the matching Cheryl Short ($108).

Lauren Eggertsen is currently the editorial director of Who What Wear and has worked at the company for over nine years, where she started as an associate editor and has since worked her way up. Lauren has worked in the Los Angeles and New York Who What Wear offices but currently calls L.A. home. Here, she leads and manages Who What Wear's editorial team and oversees all editorial content. Lauren's role also includes helping to set the fashion direction for all original photo shoots and often styles many celebrity cover shoots, including big names like Kaia Gerber, Normani, and Sabrina Carpenter. She has also attended multiple fashion weeks, including New York, London, Milan, and Paris, where her style has been featured on sites such as Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, and Elle.
-
It's Officially a Butter-Yellow Summer—27 of the Chicest Finds at Zara, Nordstrom, and J.Crew
Fashion people love this color trend.
-
The Classic Hero Piece That Fashion People Reach For All Summer Long
Something for every personal style.
-
Swim, Sandals, and SPF—30 Editor-Loved Summer Sale Finds From Anthropologie, Everlane, and J.Crew
Vacation-ready deals until June 15.
-
The Classic Swimwear Trend L.A. Fashion People Are Swapping Their Bandeau Bikinis For
No fuss.
-
I've Lived in NYC, L.A., and Boston—Here's Everything I Think Is Chic for Summer
Shop the highly curated list.
-
These 31 Rich-Looking Nordstrom Finds Are Giving "I Summer in the Hamptons"
Minus the trust fund.
-
Haven't Been to Madewell Lately? 36 Summer Clothing Styles I'd Snatch Up ASAP
Hurry—these pieces are bound to sell out.
-
Everyone With Good Taste Is Already Wearing These 7 Chic Summer Pieces
These instantly elevate any look.