Shopping for bathing suits is the absolute f*cking worst. Especially when you’re shopping for spring break. Attempting to stay on trend but still be comfortable, wondering why some store’s sizing is so f*cked, trying not to break the bank for something you may never wear again after that week—it’s a lot. What’s with swimsuits suddenly costing an entire semester’s tuition??? Oh wait, that’s just for the top. If you want bottoms too you’ll have to give up buying your books this semester. All reasons why I usually end up waiting until the last possible minute to find a swimsuit and get stuck with whatever piece of fabric I can find that fits.
Thankfully, I’ve learned from my mistakes and know that right now is probably the best time to shop for swimwear, and to make sure that I find a suit that doesn’t force me to give up my weekly Thirsty Thursday margs. Here are eight different swimsuits that are all under $50 and aren’t ugly af.
Aerie Strappy Back One Piece, $31.46
Tbh, you can’t go wrong with a classic one-piece. Aerie’s swimsuits always have a flattering fit AND they have an option for long sizes for those of us with long torsos. The struggle is real. IYKYK. This suit will give you all the comfort of a standard one-piece suit with the bonus of a strappy back that gives it a chic touch.
ZAFUL Scalloped High-Waisted Bikini, $29.99
Leave it to Amazon to come in clutch for literally everything. I cannot even begin to express my admiration for high-waisted bikinis and their ability to hide the absurd amount of tacos I eat before I go swimming. This ZAFUL suit will be flattering on an array of body types (just make sure you check the sizing and read the reviews before you order). I find high-waisted bikinis give you the same ~security~ as a one-piece suit with the convenience of a two-piece.
ASOS Twist-Front Cut-Out Polka Dot Swimsuit, $45 
If you’re an indecisive betch like me and can’t choose between a one-piece and a bikini, welcome to the perfect combo: the monokini. This piece comes in both tall and fuller-bust sizing, making it more versatile than some other styles. I know, I know, monokinis have a bad rep for the ridiculous tan lines they leave behind, but this piece is so sleek and cute. And if you think about it, the cutouts are no different than if you were to wear a dress in a similar style, so just embrace it. I love this suit because it indulges my inability to make any choices for myself (something Pilot Pete and I have in common)!
Cupshe One-Shoulder Reversible Bikini, $24.99
I’m sorry, did you say a REVERSIBLE bikini? As in two bikinis for the price of one?? Please just take my money, I literally could not ask for more.
H&M Push-Up Triangle Bikini Top, $19.99 & Bottom, $12.99
This one gives off tropical vibes so you’ll actually feel like you’re going somewhere exotic, even if you’re actually just chilling at the public pool in your hometown because you and your friends didn’t have your sh*t together enough to plan a trip for spring break. This suit comes in a variety of colors and patterns, but tops and bottoms are sold separately. Thankfully the full suit will only cost you about $35!
XhilarationWomen’s Ribbed Cut Out Tie Front Bralette Bikini Top, $14.99 & Ribbed Cheeky Bikini Bottom, $14.99
According to my sources (aka Google), texture is a big trend for swim this year. So if you’re planning on going on The Bachelor one day and want your feed to give off fashion influencer vibes, this ribbed bikini is the perfect choice. Like the piece from H&M, the top and bottom are sold separately, and the full suit will cost about $30.
Swimsuits for All Beach String Bikini, $19.98
Not only is this bikini on MAJOR sale, but you also get to mix and match the sizes of the top and bottom. It’s also really cute and tropical, so you should probably snatch it up before it’s gone.
ZAFUL Cross-Back High-Cut Swimsuit, $13.99
This one-piece is also on super sale and comes in a few different colors. The thing I really love about it is the tie-around waist. I imagine it’ll make me feel like Shakira dancing with that rope during the Super Bowl Halftime Show. And isn’t that kind of what we’re all going for, at the end of the day?
You don’t need to drain your bank account for a fire swimsuit you’ll actually want to bring on your spring break trip. Just use the critical thinking skills you’ve been neglecting to apply in class all semester. Now you can use all the money you saved on what really matters during spring break: dangerous amounts of alcohol and 3am trips to McDonald’s.
Images: Ben Parker / Unsplash
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From one professional spring break yo-yo dieter to another, if you haven’t started your intense workout regimen (aka 40 min on the treadmill while texting), then it’s time to get on it. Remember, unlike January which DRAGGED, February is a short month. Meaning, March is going to be here before you know it, which means spring break trips are just around the corner. So besides just prepping your bod for your getaway, it’s time to start thinking about prepping your wardrobe as well. Like, I know you’re not drunk-eating celery just to wear your dumpy-ass summer clothes from last year, are you??? I sure as hell hope not. I know you’re a smart girl. Which means I also know that you’re currently trying to save for your spring break vacay, or are currently paying off your credit card charge for that expensive plane ticket. So I’ve taken the liberty of finding you guys some essential spring break clothes that are all currently on sale. Uhhh, you’re sooo welc.
1. Brixton Bondi Palm Visor ($56.82, $28.43)
I know you’re not upping your spring break clothes and current workout routine JUST to like, look good for you, or anything. Nah, you do it for the ‘gram!! And this visor is the epitome of Instagram perfection. Oh, and it will also help protect your delicate young skin from the sun, so that’s cool too! It’s on sale of course, so get it while you still can.
2. BEACH RIOT x Revolve Devin Bikini Top and Bottom ($171, $74)
Rainbow stripes are v v v trendy right now. And if you don’t believe me, visit your favorite Intsa blogger’s account right now and I guarantee there will be some variation of the trend on her grid. Not only is this bikini super adorable, it’s insanely on sale. Plus, it’s part of an exclusive collab with Revolve and Beach Riot, so, primarily for all my spring break college betches, you don’t have to worry about your ex’s new gf showing up on the beach in the same suit. She probs doesn’t have good enough taste to order this one anyway, just saying.
3. Tom Petty Boyfriend Tee ($78, $49.95)
An oversize graphic tee may not be the first thing you think of to add to your spring break arsenal, but hear me out. It’s easily the most versatile piece you can pack because it can be worn sooo many different ways. To start, you can wear it on the plane with a pair of cute joggers and oversized sunnies, and you’ll give a total undercover celeb vibe. Well, until you walk past first class to your middle seat in coach, of course. You can also wear it casually during the day with a cute pair of distressed denim shorts and stylish sandals or sneakers. Another way to wear it is as an effortlessly cool cover-up for the beach. And lastly, you could even wear it out to “da club” paired with a leather skirt and heels. Just… don’t end up making it the legit only shirt you wear all spring break, lol.
4. Lovers + Friends Jack High Short ($138, $83)
Speaking of distressed denim shorts, these ones are the ideal pair to wear all vacation long. They too can be worn during the day, as a cover-up, or even out at night. Not to mention, they’re the perfect shade of denim to match whatever top (or even bikini top) you want to pair them with. There’s currently almost a full size-run available, but if you’re all as smart as I think you are, I know they won’t be there for long.
5. Urban Outfitters Oval Metal Sunglasses ($16, $10)
Sunnies are an essential spring break wardrobe piece—you all know that already. But a spring break trip isn’t the time to bring your best Gucci sunglasses that legit cost you half your paycheck. Spring break is for getting drunk, and getting drunk and designer sunglasses simply don’t mix. Trust me, I’ve lost three pairs of Ray-Bans amidst day drinking festivities (RIP). And yes, it still pains me to think of all those sunglasses lost, and the lucky bitches who found them. UGH! Anyway, avoid the self-loathing of losing expensive sunnies and get a cheaper pair that won’t ruin the rest of your trip when you do inevitably lose them. You don’t need another reason to go into an even deeper tequila-induced spiral.
6. Cleobella Swindel Tote ($218, $109)
This amazing tote bag is going to be your new vacation bff. Not only does it work as a beach bag, it can also work as your carry-on bag for the plane! The crochet fabric gives it getaway vibes, but unlike most crochet bags that are white, this one is black, so you don’t have to worry about it looking gross the second it leaves your house. It’s legit the cutest bag EVER, and is conveniently half off! BRB, I’m buying five.
7. All My Love Wrap Slip ($68, $49.95)
This is the perfect little dress to pack in your new crochet bag (see above) for all your spring break activities. Like, sooo many activities!! Wear it during the day with a pair of sandals or cute sneakers, or throw it on for dinner with a pair of heels or wedges. It also comes in a variety of prints and colors, so maybe get yourself a few and you’ll have all your vacation outfits covered. I mean, it is on sale, so why not, right???
Like I’ve emphasized, all of these spring break clothes are on sale, so don’t wait until the last minute or your size will def be gone. Beyond these essentials, don’t forget to pack sunscreen and hangover patches. Both are going to be necessary, and honestly, I don’t know which you’ll realistically need more. Just be prepared.
Images: @laurenboww / Unsplash; Princess Polly; Revolve (2); Free People (2); Urban Outfitters; Shopbop
