String Bikini Styles: Every Type Explained

A string bikini is defined by one thing: fine ties in place of fixed bands. Ties at the neck, the back or the hips mean the bikini sits exactly where you place it, on your proportions rather than a pattern block's. That is why the style has never left. This guide covers every string bikini type, how each one fits, and how to choose the right cut for the way you wear it.

What Makes a Bikini a String Bikini

The construction. A fixed-band bikini holds one shape and asks your body to match it. A string bikini runs adjustable ties through the points of tension, so the fit is set by you each time you put it on. Less fabric, fewer seams, and nothing rigid between the fabric and your skin. The result reads clean and minimal, in a solid tone or an exclusive print.

String Bikini Tops

Triangle String Tops

The classic. Two shaped cups on fine ties, tied at the neck and back. Triangle bikini tops keep the neckline open and the shoulder line light, and the ties give you complete control over lift and spacing. If you own one string top, it is probably this one.

Multi-Way String Tops

A step further: ties long enough to wrap, cross and re-tie in different configurations, so one top gives several necklines. Halter one day, crossed back the next. One piece of swimwear, several looks, which is exactly what a suitcase wants.

String Bikini Bottoms

Side Tie Bottoms

Side tie bikini bottoms put the ties at the hips. Worn high, they run a longer line through the leg. Worn lower, they sit relaxed. The back coverage is a separate decision, from a full seat to minimal, so the tie detail never limits the coverage you want.

String Thong Bottoms

Thong bikini bottoms with string sides keep the back bare and the waistband weightless. This is the cut for all-over sun and the least possible fabric, held by ties you set once and forget.

Micro String Bottoms

Micro bikinis take the string construction to its smallest expression: narrow panels, fine ties, minimal coverage front and back. The cut relies entirely on fabric quality, because there is nowhere for poor fabric to hide.

How to Choose Your String Bikini

Coverage first, then color. Decide how much you want through the back and the bust, then pick the cut that delivers it: side tie for adjustability, thong for minimal, micro for the smallest line. Take the top in the size that fits your bust and the bottom in the size that fits your hips; that is the point of separates. Then let the shade do the talking. Green reads rich and quiet, white reads crisp, and leopard gives the fine ties something bold to hold.

Do String Bikinis Stay Put?

A well-made one does. The tie points take the strain, so they need reinforced stitching and fabric with proper stretch recovery. Tie the knots flat and double-knot for swimming. A string bikini in quality fabric feels more secure than a badly fitted banded one, because you set the tension yourself.

String Bikini FAQs

What is the difference between a string bikini and a regular bikini?

Ties instead of fixed bands. A string bikini adjusts to your exact shape at the neck, back or hips; a regular bikini holds one fixed shape.

Are string bikinis good for small or large busts?

Both, for different reasons. Small busts suit the open triangle line; larger busts benefit from the adjustable lift and spacing that fixed cups cannot offer. Choose the cup size for your bust and set the ties to suit.

What do I wear over a string bikini after the water?

A linen shirt, a sarong or simple shorts. The fine ties sit flat under clothing, so nothing shows but the neckline you choose to show.

Explore the full string bikinis collection, designed in Australia by White Sands and shipped worldwide.