In case you haven’t been reminded in a while, let us start with this: every body is a beach body. Curvy, slim, muscular—whatever it looks like, your body is beautiful and worthy of soaking up the sunshine. Even still, it’s understandable to have anxiety about getting out there and showing some skin (most of us do).
Fortunately, today’s swimwear styles offer a bit more coverage than the string bikinis that were popular during the ‘80s. It feels like trendy one-pieces, casual cover-ups, and high-waisted two-pieces are taking over the poolside fashion scene, and we couldn’t be more thankful for the ever-expanding range of styles offered by modern swimwear designers.
That being said, swimsuit shopping is still notoriously a bad time (thanks, fluorescent dressing room lights). We’re trying to change that here at Rank & Style, which is why we set out to find the best high-waisted bikini bottoms. From affordable options from brands like Target and H&M to flashy investment pieces from online boutiques like SummerSalt, the 10 bikini bottoms below are approved (and loved) by real women like you.
How We Found The Internet’s Best High-Waisted Bikini Bottoms
Truthfully, this isn’t our first rodeo. From shampoos to shoes, we only want to shop the best of the best, and that goes for swimwear as well. So, how are we confident that the 10 high-waisted swimsuit bottoms below live up to that standard? It’s simple: data. Every Top 10 list on our site is curated through our algorithm, a tool that ranks products based on information such as user reviews, social buzz, and editorial recommendations. Ready to see which bikini bottoms are the most flattering according to data? Grab your wallet and scroll on.
Next up, check out the 10 Best Bikinis. Opening image: madewell.com
April 18, 2022
Written By:Sierra Rogers
Product Expert:Georgia Jones
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
Beach Riot Highway Bikini Bottom
Overall Score
4.3
10
Beach Riot Highway Bikini Bottom
4.4
65 User Reviews
2.5
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
WHAT TO LOVE: Beach Riot’s high-waisted bikini bottoms are slightly cheeky, but not so much that you’ll feel exposed. And thanks to the ribbed, polyester-spandex fabric blend, they're both form-fitting and slimming—exactly the combination we want in a pair of bikini bottoms.
USER REVIEW: “ABSOLUTELY LOVE this suit. I originally bought it in red, but the white is amazing too! Most flattering high-waisted bottoms I've tried on. They do run a tad bit small though. I normally order small, and the medium is much better.”
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Sunsets High Road Bikini Bottom
Overall Score
4.35
09
Sunsets High Road Bikini Bottom
4.63
67 User Reviews
2.5
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
WHAT TO LOVE: If you’re looking for a high-waisted bikini set that offers ample coverage, the search ends here. These bottoms are designed to keep your cheeks covered, and Sunsets has multiple matching top styles to choose from, from tankinis to bralettes.
USER REVIEW: “I’m definitely not a spring chicken or in great shape, but these help me feel a little less self-conscious about my tummy area! Super comfy and stayed in place while I swam with friends.”
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H&M Bikini Bottoms
Overall Score
4.4
08
H&M Bikini Bottoms
4.6
50 User Reviews
2.4
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
WHAT TO LOVE: It’s not often you can find a quality piece of swimwear for under $20, which is why we’re planning on snagging H&M’s high-waisted bikini bottoms in as many colors as possible.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS: Aside from the price tag, we also love that these offer a medium amount of booty coverage and are partially made from recycled materials.
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Summersalt The Classic High Rise
Overall Score
4.45
07
Summersalt The Classic High Rise
4.4
36 User Reviews
2.3
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
WHAT TO LOVE: Have you heard of Summersalt yet? If not, let us introduce you: they create travel-worthy pieces that toe the line between fashion and function. These high-waisted boy short bathing suit bottoms are a great example of that with their full-coverage bottom, slight compression, and rich color options.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS: A few reviewers mentioned that these run slightly large, so consider sizing down if you’re between two size options.
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Summersalt The High Leg High Rise
Overall Score
4.45
06
Summersalt The High Leg High Rise
4.7
179 User Reviews
2.6
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
WHAT TO LOVE: Slightly more cheeky than the high-waisted bikini bottoms above, the second pair of Summersalt bottoms on our list has a little less coverage for your backside but just as much compression.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS: It’s worth mentioning that while the Classic High Rise bottoms come in three neutral tones, the High Leg High Rise bottoms have a few more options (eight, to be exact), and all of them are adorable patterns rather than solid colors.
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Madewell Second Wave Retro High-Waisted Bikini Bottom
Overall Score
4.5
05
Madewell Second Wave Retro High-Waisted Bikini Bottom
4
6 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
WHAT TO LOVE: Cute? Yes. Flattering? Yes. Sustainable? Yes! Madewell’s high-waisted retro bathing suit bottoms are made from 80% pre-consumer recycled nylon, so you’ll both look and feel good while splashing around in these this summer.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS: We’re happy to report that these high-waisted bikini bottoms come in plus and standard sizes from XXS to 4XL. And there’s more to celebrate: they also come in four different colors, including a subtle rosy shade called “Pink Icing.” Yum.
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Inclusive
Eco Friendly
Kona Sol Shirred High Coverage High Waist Bikini Bottom
Overall Score
4.5
04
Kona Sol Shirred High Coverage High Waist Bikini Bottom
4.6
84 User Reviews
2.5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
WHAT TO LOVE: Target’s high-waisted bikini selection does not disappoint, as is evident from the fact that its Kona Sol line alone has a long list of options to scroll through. You can’t go wrong with their full-coverage high-waisted bikini bottoms, but they’ve also got a version with a tummy control panel, a V-front option, and plenty of plus-size styles as well.
USER REVIEW: “Very flattering and goes with any bikini swim top. Sexy without showing too much, and great front and back coverage. Extremely comfortable—the elastic bands don't cause any irritation.”
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L*SPACE Frenchi Bottom
Overall Score
4.55
03
L*SPACE Frenchi Bottom
4.44
174 User Reviews
2.6
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
WHAT TO LOVE: While L*Space’s Frenchi Bottoms aren’t exactly a budget buy, you’ll certainly get your money’s worth out of them, because they’re primarily made from nylon (a fabric that’s known for its quick-drying, water-resistant, stretchy nature). That, combined with the high-rise silhouette and cheeky coverage results in a perfectly versatile piece of swimwear.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS: L*Space's swimwear sizing typically fits smaller than their apparel sizing, so we recommend ordering one size up from your usual for more coverage.
More Colors
Aerie High Waisted Bikini Bottom
Overall Score
4.65
02
Aerie High Waisted Bikini Bottom
4.8
666 User Reviews
2.9
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
WHAT TO LOVE: Aerie does swimwear like no one else, so it’s no shock to see them so high on our list. Here’s what to know about their high-waisted bikini bottoms: they offer a medium amount of booty coverage and are available in three different colors, as well as sizes from XXS to 2XL.
USER REVIEW: “You need these bottoms! They fit great, are super comfy, and are slimming! The ruching on the sides adds some detail and makes you look slim! They aren’t too high-waisted, which I like. They hit right above the belly button. I would definitely recommend them!”
More Colors
Aerie High Cut Cheeky Bikini Bottom
Overall Score
4.75
01
Aerie High Cut Cheeky Bikini Bottom
4.8
1492 User Reviews
3.1
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
WHAT TO LOVE: We hate to say “I told you so,” but the truth is Aerie really does rule swimsuit season, and the reason why is simple: they know how to create comfortable, flattering swimwear. Their high-waisted cheeky bikini bottoms have a high-cut leg and a thick waistband that’s sure to give you a confidence boost that will last all summer long.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS: Another thing we love about Aerie? The fun colors and fresh patterns they offer. Here’s a pro tip: find a solid color pair of bottoms you love, then mix and match them all swim season with different coordinating bikini tops.
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