No swimwear wardrobe is complete without at least one stylish bikini. This sexy swimsuit has been popular for decades, but today’s luxury swimsuit designers are taking the bikini to a new level. Advancements in both bikini design and swimsuit fabrics have allowed designers to create countless gorgeous swimwear options. We have gathered up nine of our favorite designer bikinis for summer.
Bikini History
While there is evidence that forms of bikini-style garments have existed for thousands of years, it was French clothier Louis Reard who popularized the swimsuit in the mid-’40s. Reard visited St. Tropez and noticed how many women were rolling up the edges of their swimwear to get a better than. This inspired him to create a two-piece bathing suit that exposed the wearer’s mid-drift. He named the suit the bikini, after the Bikini Atoll where post-war nuclear tests were being done!
The scandalous suit became incredibly popular due to clever marketing on Reard’s part. He hired skywriters to fly over the French Riveria declaring his suits to be “smaller than the smallest bathing suit in the world.” He was also known to say that a suit could not be called a true bikini unless it could be pulled through a wedding ring!
Versace
‘V’ for Versace Bandeau Bikini – $375
Strapless, bandeau bikini top, with central ‘V’ emblem feature.
Louis Vuitton
This swimsuit top features a unique cut, with bare shoulders and mini sleeves. The new embroidery motif, letters spelling out LOUIS VUITTON, provides an eye-catching effect that’s both sophisticated and fun.
Dolce & Gabbana
Romantic roses fuse with color and printed stripes in this clothing and accessory collection.
Polo Ralph Lauren
Tasseled ties and a crocheted overlay put a boho-chic spin on this halter bikini top.
Mara Hoffman
Mila wrap around bikini top in peach with adjustable spaghetti straps.
Calvin Klein
Cutting Edge Triangle Top – $70
Made with avant-garde shaping, this cutting edge top features a nylon stretch blend, lined triangle cups, an asymmetric cut-out strap and logo detailing. designed with elevated yet bold branding, this style is part of our cutting edge collection, made for the progressive fashionista.
Zimmermann
Lovelorn Curve Bra Bikini – $375
Lovelorn Curve Bra Bikini, from our Resort Swim 18 Collection, in Mink Italian lycra.
Norma Kamali
Bill Bra with Rhinestones – $610
Our Bill Bra w/ Rhinestones is the sweetheart of all bikini tops. Adorned by rhinestones, with a shirred mesh overlay, and wide-set halter straps.
Lisa Marie Fernandez
Genevieve Black Seersucker Bikini Twin Set – $595
Our Genevieve High-Waist Bikini Twin Set bikini pairs our classic Genevieve bikini with the matching cardigan. Wear the button down cardigan swimming in the sea or to lunch and protect your shoulders from the sun.
No matter which of these designer suits you choose, you will be sure to be the most stylish woman at the beach this summer. If you would like to add a one-piece suit to your closet as well, be sure to check out our 2018 picks!