In case you’ve yet to hear it repeated all across the internet, we’re in the midst of a Hot Girl Summer, and the term is reaching a fever pitch. We’re not only hitting high summer, but our social lives are also starting to return to what they once were. But having a Hot Girl Summer is more of a mentality than anything, one that’s centered around self-love, empowerment, and, of course, some fire ‘fits.
In just a matter of months, thong bikinis went from being low-key polarizing to becoming a key swimwear look, and I’m so here for it. If you ask me, the risqué swimwear trend is the ultimate embodiment of Hot Girl Summer because wearing it makes a bold statement and pretty much guarantees you’re channeling your most confident and badass self when doing so. And really, there’s nothing better than that, regardless of what you’re actually wearing.
But let’s talk specifics. There’s quite a range of ways to get in on the cheeky swimwear look, whether it be classic thong bikinis, ’80s-style high-cut bottoms, or even high-waisted styles that provide more coverage everywhere else. (If you’re looking for an introductory thong, I’d suggest a high-waisted one.) We generally seem to have drawn the line before straight G-strings, but don’t take my word for it. Keep scrolling to see how the thong bikini has taken over and to shop the barely-there bikinis that will have you living your best and hottest Hot Girl Summer all season long.
Hike these up on your hips for a cheekier look or wear them lower for more coverage—cute and fully adjustable. Shop the matching Colby Ruffly Bikini Top ($100).
Have you seen anything more stunning? Shop the matching Underwire Bikini Top ($108).
Simple but statement making.
According to the reviews, this suit is ultra-comfortable.
Because not all thong bikinis have to be skimpy. Shop the matching Parker Bikini Top ($84).
I’m not saying you should wear your bikini strings as a visible thong with something low-rise, but you’d definitely be on-trend if you did. Shop the matching Kyra Bandeau Top ($90).
I mean, this print is everything. Shop the matching Vintage Bikini Bottoms ($130).
Bring on the shimmer.
I’ve never considered a bikini to be elegant, but I’d say this one is. Shop the matching Tulum Top ($87).
Don’t get this if you don’t like having fun.
Frankies Bikinis always gets it right. Shop the matching Ryan Tie Front Bikini Top ($100).
Okay, H&M—I see you with these Brazilian-cut bottoms. Shop the matching Bikini Top ($18).
Retro florals are a hard yes from me.
Personally, I think this is *the* color of the summer. Shop the matching Bixi Bikini Bottoms ($60).
EmRata approved. Shop the matching Amara Top ($85).
The contrasting colors are so good here.
This color always gets me.
Everything about this suit is perfect to me. Shop the matching Mona Top ($75).
So chic. Shop the matching Liza Bikini Bottoms ($83).
Crochet feels especially right this summer.
Twenty-one dollars of fun.
Groovy.
Perfect for those minimal tan lines.
The gathered detail makes this so chic. Shop the matching Gathered Bikini Top ($80).
High-waisted thong bikinis are harder to come by than you’d think, but Myra Swim has some great options. Shop the matching Levi Top ($99).
