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Make a Spring Break Splash: The Bikini Trends Taking Over This Season

  • 1 hour ago
  • 2 min read

By: Brooke Erickson


Hey Spring Breakers! With vacation and the festival circuit right around the corner, it’s officially time to start thinking about swimwear. With the rise of 90s chic minimalism blended with the whimsy of 2026, this season’s bikini trends mix playful nostalgia with modern nuances. Bringing together sporty silhouettes, retro prints, and statement details, these are just some of the styles that perfectly capture this year’s beach debonair. 

Here are some of the swim trends defining the season.


Swim Shorts & Swim Skirts: Sporty Meets Stylish



One of the biggest trends in swimwear this year is the rise of swim shorts and swim skirts. These pieces bring a sporty edge to traditional bikinis while offering a little more coverage and versatility. Swim shorts, ranging from fitted micro-mini styles to relaxed surfer cuts, pair easily with classic triangle tops or bandeaus. Swim skirts, on the other hand, add a playful, feminine twist with wrap silhouettes, pleats, and subtle slits. Either option adds a vintage, pin-up vibe to your look.

The appeal lies in their flexibility: you can go from beach volleyball to boardwalk strolling without needing to change.

The Triangl Bikini Revival



Another major trend making waves this season is the revival of the iconic Triangl-style bikini. Known for its bold color-blocking and neoprene construction, the Australian swim brand became a viral sensation in the early Instagram era and helped define early-2010s beach style. Sparked, of course, by the 2016 renaissance, the iconic look-structured fabric, contrast piping, and vibrant hues are now making a comeback with updated fits and modern colorways. 

The result is a nostalgic yet fresh take on the bikini that instantly channels that sun-soaked, carefree, oversaturated beach aesthetic. It’s cute, it’s camp, it’s a modern-day classic.

Polka Dots Make a Playful Comeback



Classic patterns are also returning to the spotlight, and polka dots are leading the charge. From micro-dots on minimalist triangle sets to oversized retro spots on balconette tops, the print brings instant class and charm to swimwear. Black-and-white remains the most popular combination, but designers are experimenting with soft pastels, cherry red, and butter yellow for a lighter spring feel.

The result is a pattern that also feels equal parts vintage pin-up and modern beach chic.

Bikini Charms and Trinkets



One of the most fun (and DIY-able) trends this season is bikini charms. Think small metallic shells, stars, hearts, and initials attached to straps or center ties. Inspired by Zara Larsson and her never-ending Midnight-sun aesthetic, these tiny accessories add personality and a hint of jewelry to swimwear without overwhelming the look. Some brands even offer customizable charms so you can personalize your bikini the same way you would a charm bracelet. It’s a fun way to craft your look without being overly chaotic or uncomfy. A subtle way to make a simple suit feel unique. 

To Get the Look: Jaded London, Pacsun, Hollister, Garage, WithJean, FrankiesBikinis, Blackbough, MotelRocks


  



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