Tankinis! Thin Straps! Boy Shorts! 8 Swimsuit Trends That Are Finally Back

Say "hello again" to fashion's favorite throwback styles.

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Published In Buying Guides
Sofia Richie Grainge wearing a bikini.
(Image credit: @sofiagrainge)
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Fashion's cyclical nature has hit the swimwear world hard this year, and this has been a summer filled with flashes from the past. Some of the most nostalgic styles we've loved in decades past are finding their way back into our vacation wardrobes—with a modern twist. Tankinis have shed their early 2000s reputation thanks to designer-brand backing, and sporty swim shorts are becoming a favorite among fashion insiders known for their cool factor.

And it doesn’t stop there. Minimalist bikinis, retro-inspired prints, and high-cut one-pieces continue to prove that sometimes the best trends are the ones worth coming back to. Whether you're planning a tropical getaway or simply updating your swim drawer for the season ahead, these are the eight swimsuit trends making a stylish comeback for summer 2026.

Boy Shorts

Woman swim boy shorts and a bikini top.

(Image credit: @tyrellhampton)

Sporty swimwear is having a major moment, and if you want in, boy shorts should be the first thing on your list. Cool girls are already calling them a summer wardrobe staple.

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Thin Straps

Woman wearing a thin-strap bikini.

(Image credit: @amaka.hamelijnck)

After seasons dominated by bold hardware and statement details, swimwear is taking a more understated approach, and the details are worth noting. If you like tanning, you're going to like this one.

Tankinis

Woman wearing a tankini swimsuit.

(Image credit: @goldieswimwear)

Perhaps the most surprising comeback of the season, tankinis have officially reentered the fashion conversation. Love it or hate it, they're here, and the fashion crowd is in line to give the top style a try.

Nostalgic Prints

Woman wearing a Burberry x Hunza G swimsuit.

(Image credit: @burberry)

Retro-inspired prints are bringing a playful energy to swimwear this summer. If it looks memorable or reminds you of one of your favorite designer brands, you're in the right place.

Leopard

Woman wearing a leopard print bikini.

(Image credit: @sofiagrainge)

Leopard print has become a year-round neutral, and swimwear is no exception. It's instant proof that you're a fashion person.

High Cuts

J.Lo wearing a high-cut one-piece swimsuit.

(Image credit: @jlo)

The leg-lengthening effect of a high-cut swimsuit continues to make it a favorite among celebrities and fashion insiders alike. Borrowing inspiration from iconic '80s and '90s swimwear, it easily reads retro.

Poncho Cover-Ups

Woman wearing a poncho over a bikini.

(Image credit: @stylewithsoco)

Cover-ups are becoming just as important as the swimsuits themselves, and the poncho silhouette is emerging as the new kid on the block. Try it to feel 2026 coded.

Tie-Dye

Woman wearing a bikini and a tie-dye cover-up.

(Image credit: @hannahlovey)

Tie-dye is making a subtle return through sophisticated color palettes and elevated fabrications. Rather than feeling overly bohemian or childlike, today's interpretations bring an elevated touch.

Sierra Mayhew
Sierra Mayhew
Fashion Editor

Sierra Mayhew is a fashion editor at Who What Wear, bringing a decade of industry experience to the editorial team. Since joining in 2021, she has made her mark by blending luxury and accessible fashion, decoding runway trends, and curating must-have shopping lists. Before joining Who What Wear, Sierra sharpened her skills at Harper's Bazaar and Elle, with bylines in Bazaar.com and collaborated with iconic brands such as Gucci and Ferragamo. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Sierra translates editorial expertise into viral social content, making fashion engaging for a new generation. Her unique perspective is rooted in her love for travel, music, and discovering the hidden gems that make New York City a constant source of inspiration.