Google swimsuits in the '40s, '50s, and '60s, and you'll probably be surprised by how many of the styles back then are more than relevant if not trending right now. It's hard to imagine, but there was a point when the high-rise bikini felt extremely forward after a decade of string bikinis and low-rise jeans, but now, bottoms with more coverage are only continuing to gain steam and as of late, another retro swim bottom has graced the market and that is swim shorts.
I can almost assure you that back in the day your grandmother used to wear swimsuits that had a lower-half offering so much coverage that they resembled little shorts. Today, that iconic retro style has translated into literal swim shorts. These "grandma" bikinis of 2020 (yes, that's what I've decided to call them) are honestly the new bikini trend we needed this year—even if we aren't spending summer exactly how we thought we would.
Swim shorts so far have been selling as either the literal bottom portion of a bikini or as sort of a third piece to your typical two-piece set. Can't decide which you would prefer? Then scroll down to see the best swim shorts on the market. Whether you buy one now to wear around your house or for later when we can all finally go on vacations again, this new swimsuit trend will ring up feelings of nostalgia and sartorial greatness all at once.
This sweet tie detail is a nice contrast to the more sporty-feeling swim shorts.
Not to pick favorites, but these are my personal favorites of the bunch.
Shop the matching Richard Bikini Top ($143).
A summer vibe for sure.
A one-shoulder top is the perfect counterpart to swim shorts.
And these polka dots are making this particular suit a no-brainer.
Great for mixing and matching.
Shop the matching Suede Tear Drop Crop Bikini Top ($56).
Vintage-inspired for sure.
That slight ruffle trim is too good to pass up.
Prefer even more coverage? These bike shorts will do.
Shop the matching Komala Bikini Top ($121).
She's an icon.
When a string bikini just doesn't feel like enough, throw on the shorts that follow.
Or wear them as your regular bottoms. At least this set gives you the option!
In case you get sick of the mismatched bottoms.
Just throw on the matching swim shorts instead.
A simple suit that you'll keep around for years to come.
Shop the matching Sidestroke Bikini Top ($50).
This also comes in an assortment of solid colors too, but the leopard just feels timely right now. You know, considering Tiger King and such.
Shop the matching Kumu 2 Top ($112).
Everyone loves a soft floral print.
Especially when it comes with matching swim shorts.
I don't think a lavender swimsuit has existed that I haven't fallen in love with.
Shop the matching Cuba Underwire Bikini Top ($80).
Even Bottega is jumping on this trend train.
From now on, I only plan on styling string bikinis with swim shorts.
Especially ones that are glittery and colorful.
Is it just me, or does this swimsuit look really expensive?
First it will look expensive, then it will look trendy with these cinched-side swim shorts.
If neon colors aren't your thing, stick to pastels.
That includes your swim shorts too.
Sporty spice.
Last but certainly not least, these ruched swim shorts from Rick Owens will be on my mind for a long time.
Next up, shop some of the new bag designers we're loving now.
