Swimwear
Jul 25, 2022

I Combed the Internet for Preppy Swimsuits That Are Also Cool

by Jennifer Camp Forbes

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!).

J. Crew Underwire Bikini Top

Underwire Bikini Top

This gingham print bikini is perfect for getting Sara Ramén's look above.

Shop the matching High-Rise Bikini Bottom ($30).

H&M High Leg Swimsuit

High Leg Swimsuit

I love this subtle green color.

Minkpink Lilac Ruched Bralette

Lilac Ruched Bralette

Pretty in pink for summer? Yes, please.

Shop the matching Lilac Tie Side Bottoms ($59).

L Space Float on One-Piece Swimsuit

Float on One-Piece Swimsuit

I'm all for the casual-cool feel of this one-piece.

Eberjey Cassidy Bikini Top

Cassidy Bikini Top

How cute is this palm-tree print?

Shop the matching Ursula Bikini Bottoms ($102).

Good American Always Fits Hot Shoulder One Piece

Always Fits Hot Shoulder One Piece

Classic one-piece with a bright one-shoulder twist.

H&M Balconette Bikini Top

Balconette Bikini Top

The striped top can be worn with or without straps.

Shop the matching Bikini Bottoms ($13).

Tanya Taylor Valencia Smocked Bikini Top

Valencia Smocked Bikini Top

Here is a fresh take on the smocked trend this season.

Shop the matching Valencia Smocked Bikini Bottoms ($95).

Robin Piccone Chandy Tie Front One-Piece Swimsuit

Chandy Tie Front One-Piece Swimsuit

This tropical print feels elevated and chic.

Xirena Analyse One Piece

Analyse One Piece

This printed halter one-piece feels timeless.

H&M Balconette Bikini Top

Balconette Bikini Top

I'm getting a glam feeling from this high-waisted shorts bikini option.

Shop the matching Shortie Bikini Bottoms ($13).

Bleu by Rod Beattie Kore Bandeau One-Piece Swimsuit

Bleu by Rod Beattie

Kore Bandeau One-Piece Swimsuit

Make a statement in this navy cutout option.

Sea Level Cross Front Multifit Bikini Top

Cross Front Multifit Bikini Top

The cross-front design here is super flattering.

Shop the matching High Waist Gathered Side Swim Bottoms ($55).

Veronica Beard Aniston Swimsuit

Aniston Swimsuit

Here's a great way to jump in on the cutout trend.

H&M Push-Up Bikini Top

Push-Up Bikini Top

There's nothing chicer than a classic white bikini.

Shop the matching Bikini Bottoms ($13).

Robin Piccone Aubrey Tank Top

Aubrey Tank Top

If you prefer a more modest bikini top, this is a cool option.

Shop the matching Aubrey Ruched High Waist Bikini Bottoms ($88).

Norma Kamali Mio One-Shoulder Swimsuit

Mio One-Shoulder Swimsuit

This one-shoulder swimsuit has a cult following.

Haight Gaia Underwired Stretch-Crepe Bikini Top

Gaia Underwired Stretch-Crepe Bikini Top

I am obsessed with this white bikini.

Shop the matching Stretch-Crepe Bikini Briefs ($109).

H&M Flounced Shaping Swimsuit

Flounced Shaping Swimsuit

A wrap-around effect makes this one-piece swimsuit standout.

H&M Balconette Bikini Top

Balconette Bikini Top

How pretty is this twisted blue bikini top?

Shop the matching Bikini Bottoms ($13).

Solido Ruffle One Piece

Ruffle One Piece

This ruffled one-piece has a lovely open-back design.

Artesands Salmagundi Vermeer Bikini Top

Salmagundi Vermeer Bikini Top

Patchwork prints are having a major moment.

Shop the matching Salmagundi Magritte Side Tie Bikini Bottoms ($75).

Faithfull the Brand

Adara Stretch-Terry Bikini Top

This bold green color is one of the biggest trends of the season.

Shop the matching Chania Stretch-Terry Bikini Briefs ($95).

PQ Swim Lettuce Edge Triangle Bikini Top

Lettuce Edge Triangle Bikini Top

This paisley print bikini is incredibly chic.

Shop the matching Lettuce Edge Tie Full Bikini Bottoms ($76).

Matteau + Net Sustain the String Floral-Print Triangle Bikini Top

+ Net Sustain the String Floral-Print Triangle Bikini Top

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).