I Combed the Internet for Preppy Swimsuits That Are Also Cool
Whenever preppy fashion is brought up my mind immediately conjures up images from popular '80s movies like Heathers, Pretty in Pink, Sixteen Candles, and other cult classics. More specifically, I end up picturing well-to-do people from coast to coast in polo shirts, seersucker separates, tennis outfits, plaid blazers, Oxford shirts, and other timeless pieces. While the current take on the style genre is still very much a nod to that exact aesthetic, it has evolved into a more modern, elevated selection of pieces. This was made super clear to me during a recent perusal of swimwear options this season.
With summer at our doorstep, beach and pool-side looks are top of mind and in my search for great swimwear picks of the moment, I ended up coming across some incredibly cool preppy swimsuits. Think bikinis and one-pieces with a variety of details spanning from sporty designs to floral prints, ruffles, trendy cutouts, and even classic solid styles. Ahead, shop 30 standout swimsuits—some will even appeal to the most die-hard minimalist's heart (hi, that's me!).
This gingham print bikini is perfect for getting Sara Ramén's look above.
Shop the matching High-Rise Bikini Bottom ($30).
Pretty in pink for summer? Yes, please.
Shop the matching Lilac Tie Side Bottoms ($59).
How cute is this palm-tree print?
Shop the matching Ursula Bikini Bottoms ($102).
This one shoulder option is super pretty.
Classic one-piece with a bright one-shoulder twist.
The striped top can be worn with or without straps.
Shop the matching Bikini Bottoms ($13).
Here is a fresh take on the smocked trend this season.
Shop the matching Valencia Smocked Bikini Bottoms ($95).
How sweet is the blue blooms print?
Shop the matching Floral-Print Recycled Bikini Briefs ($56).
I'm getting a glam feeling from this high-waisted shorts bikini option.
Shop the matching Shortie Bikini Bottoms ($13).
The cross-front design here is super flattering.
Shop the matching High Waist Gathered Side Swim Bottoms ($55).
There's nothing chicer than a classic white bikini.
Shop the matching Bikini Bottoms ($13).
If you prefer a more modest bikini top, this is a cool option.
Shop the matching Aubrey Ruched High Waist Bikini Bottoms ($88).
I am obsessed with this white bikini.
Shop the matching Stretch-Crepe Bikini Briefs ($109).
How pretty is this twisted blue bikini top?
Shop the matching Bikini Bottoms ($13).
Patchwork prints are having a major moment.
Shop the matching Salmagundi Magritte Side Tie Bikini Bottoms ($75).
This bold green color is one of the biggest trends of the season.
Shop the matching Chania Stretch-Terry Bikini Briefs ($95).
This paisley print bikini is incredibly chic.
Shop the matching Lettuce Edge Tie Full Bikini Bottoms ($76).
Thanks to stretch-recycled fabric this bikini is one of the more sustainable picks of this season.
Shop the matching The String Floral-Print Bikini Briefs ($145).
This goes out to those that love a subtle print.
The scalloped design bring this otherwise classic black bikini to the next level.
Shop the matching Mott Scalloped Recycled Seersucker Bikini Briefs ($156).
Next: These 6 Swimsuit Styling Hacks From TikTok Are Game Changers
Jennifer Camp Forbes is currently an editor at Who What Wear, where she has worked in a variety of capacities for over a decade, including creative director and various editor roles. She’s well-known as a shopping expert that’s sought out for advice and insight on the latest trends, outfit ideas, and fashion picks thanks to her thoughtful shopping roundups, digital moodboards, and extensive knowledge of up-and-coming brands, plus the new arrivals sections of the chicest retailers. Jennifer has had a lifelong interest in fashion which led her to intern at Harper’s Bazaar as an undergraduate. Later, while working towards her masters degree in psychological counseling at Columbia University, she founded two digital fashion publications: Le Fashion and Olsens Anonymous. The popularity of both sites grew and after graduation she decided put her plans to become a therapist aside to pursue a career in fashion. While she has called Los Angeles and New York City home in the past, she currently works remotely from Massachusetts. When she’s not obsessing over and writing about her latest fashion finds, she is delighting in raising two little ones with her highschool sweetheart, perusing TikTok religiously, listening to podcasts and audiobooks, creating abstract photographs, and eating the best Mexican food she can get her hands on.
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