Skirted Bikinis Are The Retro Swim Trend Taking Over 2026
Our take
It’s officially swimsuit season. And while barely-there bikinis and skimpy cut-out water-friendly pieces are certainly rampant this year, I just can’t get on board. That’s not to say I’m not indulging in some cute swimwear. In fact, there’s a specific trend that’s hitting hard at the moment: swim skirts. Yes, the retro-inspired, frilly look is taking over all manner of summer collections, and I’m fully on board.
The skirted swim look is appealing to me in that it allows for a flirty, sultry moment without skewing too sexy — right up my alley. To be clear, I have high regard for cheeky, plunging suits, they’re just not something I feel fully comfortable in. So skirted bikinis feel like the ideal happy medium for the beachy season ahead.
With that said, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to this throwback swim category. Sure, you can go the classic coquettish route and opt for a precious gingham set from For Love & Lemon and Lemons or a floral pastel option from Free People. You can also go sleek and elevated with a textured skirted bikini from Montce (one of my personal favorite swim brands of all time) or a dainty elegant satin option from Frankie’s Bikinis. There’s also sportier styles, courtesy of Gap — I’m loving the brand’s wrap skort sets.
Ahead, check out the smorgasbord of swim skirts for summer that I’m adding to cart ASAP.
For a little less coverage, but still a bit of skirt, Montce’s ruffled bottoms are an ideal — and flirty — option.
This simplistic textured ivory bikini top complements the coordinating skirt well without overpowering it.
Go sporty with a water-friendly take on a wrap-around skort.
This striped bandeau bikini top offers lots of coverage and support for plenty of beach frolicking.
The animal print trend that ran rampant this winter is extending to summer, as evidenced by this cool ruched swim skirt.
The matching push-up bikini top makes for a total “va-va-voom” moment.
Embrace a retro moment with this floral-print skort that reads oh-so pin-up.
Tying together the ‘50s starlet look is this sweetheart halter top.
Channel your inner country cutie with a gingham bikini skirt.
The bandeau bikini top features tie straps that add some interest – and keep you comfortable and secure as well.
Set in an ice blue color way, this satin bottom is the picture of poolside elegance.
The matching satin balconette-style top is giving Bridgerton vibes.
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