Now that it’s time to swap out your scarves and jackets for a selection of summer dresses, a checkup on that neglected swimsuit drawer is in order. You never really think about bathing suits until you actually need one — and then, well, you know how it goes.
In an effort to avoid that last-minute crisis, we’re helping you plan in advance. And while we appreciate a good halter and classic triangle top, a bandeau bikini is really the most versatile around: It can double as a crop top, easily layer under tees and tanks without straps showing, and basically guarantees tan lines are a thing of the past. Plus, who doesn’t like to start the season off with a brand-new suit? (It's like that first day of school outfit, but better.)
Click through to see all the options we're ready to lounge in.
Wear this piece as pictured, as a crop top with high-waisted shorts, or adjust the strap to a true tube top to avoid tan lines.
Alix Sagamore Bandeau, $155, available at Alix; Alix Espanola Bottom, $110, available at Alix.
This retro-inspired smock bikini isn't just flattering — it's integrated with SPF 50, too (oh, and it reminds us of that strapless Juicy Couture dress we used to love).
Tory Burch Costa Bandeau, $115, available at Tory Burch; Tory Burch Costa Hipster, $115, available at Tory Burch.
Inspired by Man Repeller’s Leandra Medine, this bold, plaid number is a fun way to incorporate the off-the-shoulder trend into your swim wardrobe.
Lisa Marie Fernandez Leandra Off-The-Shoulder Printed Stretch Cotton-blend Bikini, $380, available at Net-A-Porter.
Busty girls: Look to a supportive top that features real cups, a clasp closure, and removable straps.
ASOS CURVE Mix & Match Bandeau Bikini Top with Support, $30, available at ASOS.
Zip it on up.
Missguided Neoprene Frill Bandeau Bikini Top, $24.23, available at Missguided; Missguided Neoprene Bikini Bottom, $16.15, available at Missguided.
Nothing screams glamour like laying poolside, dripping in gold.
Ondademar Ruffled Bandeau Bikini Top, $114, available at MatchesFashion; Ondademar Ruffled Bikini Briefs, $130, available at MatchesFashion.
Colorblocking done right.
Zeus + Dione Daira Cross-effect Two Color Strapless Bikini with Contrasting Trim, $131.03, available at Zeus + Dione.
Replace your go-to black bikini with this sporty-but-sexy mesh option.
NastyGal Match Maker Bikini Set, $68, available at NastyGal.
Proof you can mix metals.
Heidi Klein St. Thomas Bandeau Bikini Top, $128.69 $102.95, available at Farfetch; Heidi Klein St. Thomas Bikini Bottoms, $128.69 $102.95 available at Farfetch.
Alternating stripes offer a fresh take on a summer classic.
J.Crew U-front Bandeau Bikini Top, $54, available at J.Crew; J.Crew Bikini Boyshort, $46, available at J.Crew.
Just think how good this will look in the sun.
Marysia Antibes Printed Scalloped Bandeau Bikini, $272, available at Marysia.
You're likely wearing floral dresses all summer long. Why not take the style further and bring it to your swimwear, too?
Target Women's Plus Size Bandeau with Removable Halter Strap, $34.99, available at Target; Target Women's Plus Size High Waist Bottom, $34.99, available at Target.
Does it get more versatile than a reversible, wear-two-ways bikini?
Onia Allegra Reversible Bandeau Top, $110 $77, available at Onia; Onia Lily Sport Bikini Bottom $95 $67, available at Onia.
A little print goes a long way with this vintage-inspired set.
Out From Under Printed Longline Underwire Bikini Top, $44, available at Urban Outfitters; Out From Under Strappy Solid Bikini Bottom, $36, available at Urban Outfitters.
If you're not into neoprene, opt for an unexpected crochet number.
Missoni Mare Printed Bandeau Bikini, $610 $366, available at Stylebop.
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