Look, I work in retail we were sell some nice-ass swim brands. So, I know better than anyone how expensive swimsuits are these days. Like, just the top alone can cost you $100. Which is UNREAL, and I’ll remind you again, I work in retail. Thus, my personal alotted swim budget is pretty minimal. But, finding on-trend swimsuits that are reasonably priced is easier than ever with all the online fast fashion brands we have access to nowadays. Look, it’s unlikely that your bright green neon swimsuit is going to be trendy come next summer, so why spend your life’s savings on something that’s just a passing trend? Here are this season’s swimsuit trends and affordable options for each.
1. High Cut
A high cut bottom is not only trendy, it’s v flattering. It has an effortless retro sex appeal for the ultimate summer vibe. It’s very vintage Baywatch-cool and allows for some variety with your summer tan lines. A flattering swimsuit that looks sexy, stylish, cool AND allows for a more even flawless tan? Could you ask for anything more???
Missguided Mix and Match Bikini Set, $24.50
Asymmetric Colorblock Swimsuit, $17.99
2. Animal Print
We already know animal print is super trendy in general for spring and summer. So it only makes sense that the trend would translate to swim as well. Whether you go leopard, snake, or any other print, pick one in a neutral color to ensure it looks expensive, not cheap. As Countess Luanne would say, “Money can’t buy you class,” so don’t go wasting yours on a pricey swimsuit. Rather, use your best judgement to pick one that just looks expensive. And, if you don’t trust your own judgement in doing so, I’m here for you, just take one of my suggestions below.
Snake Print Straight Swimsuit, $50
3. Underwire
This is another retro swim trend coming back this season. It’s an awesome trend for both small-chested and busty girls alike. For those who are smaller chested, it creates an illusion of fullness and depth. For those bigger chested, it gives added lift and support. So, regardless of your body type, this is def a trend worth getting behind. 
Billabong Sol Searcher Underwire Bikini Top, $49.95 and Sol Searcher Hawaii Bikini Bottoms, $39.95
Out From Under Tulip Underwire One-Piece Swimsuit, $79
4. Belted
Belts are back, and they’re here to elevate your swim game now, too. The belted swimsuit trend gives your one piece more shape by accentuating your waist, and gives your high waisted bottoms an added element of fashion blogger-level style. Like, if your swimsuit doesn’t have a belt this season, do you even know “fashion” at all???
River Island Plunge Bikini Top, $38 and High Waisted Briefs with Belt, $29
Warehouse High Leg Swimsuit With Belt, $45.50
5. Textured
A great way to spice up your swim wardrobe this summer is adding some texture. Whether it’s through ribbed detailing or shirred smocking, an element of texture makes even the most simple bathing suit more feminine and cool. So bring on the texture, baby!
Shirred Ring Plunge One Piece, $52
6. Neon
This season, it’s all about the bright neons, and this trend is the perfect complement to your summer tan. In regards to your swimsuit, it’s important to glam up your neon suit as much as possible so as not to look tacky. You want to look like Erika Jayne in the Bahamas, not like you got your bikini at one of those souvenir shops on the boardwalk.
Aerie Ribbed Side Scoop Bikini Top, $29.95 and High Cut Cheeky Bikini Bottom, $29.95
New Look Color Block Shirred Swimsuit, $40
7. Metallics
Done correctly, metallics are chic and add an element of glam to your beach day style. Of course, key words here are “done correctly.” If you go buy a slinky gold triangle bikini top from Wet Seal, I can’t guarantee it’s going to be the epitome of glam. Opt for a more subtle bronze or rose gold shade to ensure you look effortlessly beach chic.
Topshop Metallic Ribbed Triangle Bikini Top, $38 and Ribbed Bikini Bottoms, $28
Topshop Metallic Cami Swimsuit, $60
8. Knotted & Bows
Knots and bows add a feminine flair to any swimsuit. Additionally, they allow for another way to adjust your swimsuit to make it fit best to your individual body. Or, if you just want to tie your suit tighter to make your boobs look bigger, you do you, sis.
ASOS DESIGN Neoprene Bow Front Bandeau Bikini Top, $23 and Hipster Bikini, $18
Gidget One-Piece Swimsuit, $84
The official start of summer is right around the corner, so stock up on these trendy swimsuits now before all the good sizes are gone! This way, as you’re getting blacked out on random men’s boats, the one Sunday Scary you won’t be having is whether you looked good or not. Sure you got kicked out of the bar and called your ex 42 times, but we’re all about the small wins here, people.
Images: Roberto Nickson / Unsplash; ASOS (5); Urban Outfitters; Free People; Topshop (4); Aerie; Nordstrom (3); Zara
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