This summer is going to be glorious: the bikini trends of 2021
In 2021 we sorted bikini cuts for the summer. Five seasons later, one thing is clear: the silhouettes have endured, only the combinations have changed. Which of these styles still have a place in your wardrobe today?
When we wrote about bikini trends in 2021, we focused on structured underwired tops, triangle cuts, and bandeau styles. We wondered which would stand the test of time. Five seasons on, the answer is clear: the cuts remain the same. What has changed is the surface-patterns, colours, and how openly we talk about fit. Here’s the honest update, short and sweet.
- The classics endure: underwired, triangle, and bandeau styles dominate beach racks in 2026 just as they did in 2021.
- It’s all about the look, not the cut: polka dots, animal prints, and boho details with fringe and pearls set the accents.
- Fit over trend: tankinis flatter the midriff, push-up adds volume to smaller busts, balconette supports a fuller bust.
- Triangle and bandeau cuts spare you stripes because straps can slip or disappear entirely.
- A cut that fits beats every trend. Choose by your shape, not the magazine cover.
The Classics That Never Go Out of Style
The balconette bikini was our safe bet in 2021, and it still holds true today. Pre-shaped cups fit perfectly, flatter your figure, and provide support without you having to think about the straps. Standing right beside it is the triangle bikini: triangular tops with adjustable straps, cut close to the body. It looks best on slender figures, and a white triangle against tanned skin remains one of the best looks on the beach. If you want to stay stripe-free without heading to a nudist beach, the bandeau is your go-to. Either completely strapless or with removable straps that you can take off in an instant.
The bottom line? These three cuts aren’t seasonal trends. They’re the wardrobe staples. What’s new for 2026 is the patterns. Polka dots in muted combinations like brown or black with white dots are leading the way, alongside animal prints and the big boho moment with ethnic patterns, fringe, and pearls. Asymmetrical cuts are the real newcomer in terms of shape itself.
A cut that fits beats every trend. Pick the style that suits your figure, and the color is just the cherry on top.
Finding the Right Bikini for Your Body Type
Curvy women often hesitate when it comes to bikinis, but the proportions are easy to highlight. If you want to camouflage a small belly, the tankini is your best friend: the top is designed like a shirt, covering the midriff and drawing attention to the décolletage. For a smaller bust, the push-up with subtle padding adds volume-no one will notice the trick from the outside. An alternative without padding is the bandeau, which also creates the illusion of a fuller bust while leaving your shoulders streak-free after sunbathing.
Want to stand out on the beach? The balconette is your cut: deep neckline, separate cups, and support for a fuller bust that looks incredibly feminine, especially in black or red. If you prefer something less bold, the neckholder is a great choice. To compare the cuts in detail, check out the Hunkemöller Bikini Style Guide, which showcases balconette, plunge, demi, triangle, and bandeau side by side.
Before You Hit the Beach
A new bikini is only half the battle. The other half is the skin underneath-and that needs protection as soon as the sun gets serious. Find out how to choose the right SPF for your face in our sunscreen guide by skin type. And if your sunglasses still haven’t caught up with your bikini? Our sunglasses trends from 2021 are a great starting point-many of those styles are still in vogue today. If you’re already in beach mode, our spring fitness routine at InspiredBySports will get you in the right seasonal groove.
Quick Answers
▸Are the bikini trends from 2021 still relevant today?
The cuts are. Balconette, triangle, bandeau, push-up, tankini, and balconette are still on the shelves in 2026 just like they were back then. What’s changed is the look: polka dots, animal prints, and boho details with fringe and pearls are setting the tone now, alongside asymmetrical cuts as the real newcomer.
▸Which bikini style suits which body type?
Small belly? Tankini, because the top works like a shirt and covers the midriff. Small bust? Push-up with subtle padding. Fuller bust? Balconette with separate cups and support. Slender figure? Triangle. Want streak-free tans? Go for bandeau or strapless.
▸How do I avoid tan lines on my shoulders?
Opt for a strapless bandeau or a triangle with removable straps. That way, your shoulders stay free, and you won’t see any white streaks when you stroll down the promenade in the evening.
▸Is it worth buying a new bikini every year?
Not at all. A well-fitting cut lasts several seasons, as this roundup shows. If you want variety, update your look through patterns and colors instead of a whole new cut. That saves money and keeps you from ending up with a dud purchase.
Image sources: Pexels / Dalila Dalpart, Kindel Media, Jess Vide, Armin Rimoldi
