High Waisted Bikini
21 products
21 out of 21 products
Hunkemöller High-waisted bikinis
A high-waisted bikini is a two-piece swimsuit with bottoms that sit at or above the natural waist, creating a smooth silhouette, defining the waist, and giving a retro-inspired, on-trend look.
The high-waisted bikini has been a staple in swimwear for several seasons now. Thanks to the higher waistline, the bottoms fit snugly around your waist and create a streamlined silhouette. Whether you're relaxing on the beach or lounging by the pool, a high-waisted bikini is a style that's both timeless and on-trend.
What are high-waisted bikini bottoms?
High-waisted bikinis (sometimes called retro bikinis, vintage-style bikinis, or hi-rise bikini bottoms) have a higher waistline than classic bikini briefs, sitting just below or at the navel. They usually sit just below or at the navel. This cut accentuates the waist and elongates the legs, making it one of the most universally flattering bottom styles available.
Features of high-waisted bikini bottoms:
higher waistline that sits at or above the navel
comfortable, fitted cut that defines the waist
suitable for various body types
available in a range of styles, from basic to high-waisted string bikinis
often paired with built-in shaping or smoothing fabric
Discover our full range of bikini bottoms or create your own bikini set with a matching bikini top.
High-waisted shaping bikinis
Many high-waisted bikini styles offer subtle shaping. A high-waisted shaping bikini provides gentle support around the tummy and waist thanks to reinforced fabric or double lining. This creates a smooth silhouette without feeling tight.
This makes high-waisted shaping styles ideal if you want the look of a clean, sculpted silhouette and the feel of comfortable, breathable swimwear. The shaping is built into the fabric so you can wear it all day, in and out of the water.
Looking for more inspiration? Take a look at our bikinis for curvier figures or discover our full range of swimwear in different fits.
High-waisted vs high-leg bikinis
A high-waisted bikini is sometimes confused with a high-cut style. The difference lies in the cut:
- High-waisted: the waistline is cut higher and covers more of the tummy.
- High-cut: the leg opening is cut higher, making your legs look longer.
Some styles combine both, with a high waistband and high leg cut, for a retro, leg-lengthening, hourglass-emphasising look.
Fancy seeing styles with a higher leg cut? Then take a look at our high-cut bikinis.
How to choose the right high-waisted bikini
The right high-waisted bikini comes down to three things: your body shape, the rise you prefer, and how you plan to wear it.
By body shape
Hourglass: high-waisted bottoms emphasise your natural waist.
Pear shape: high-waisted bottoms create a smooth line through the hips.
Apple shape: high-waisted styles with smoothing fabric give a clean line through the midriff.
Athletic / straight: high-waisted bottoms create curve and definition where there's less natural shape.
Petite: look for a slightly lower-rise version of the high-waisted cut (sitting just under the navel) to avoid shortening the torso.
By rise
Just-below-the-navel rise: the most universally flattering that gives waist definition without dominating your silhouette.
At-the-navel rise: classic vintage proportion, perfect for retro-inspired sets.
Above-the-navel rise: the most modest cut with maximum coverage and a clean midriff line, ideal for active wear and pool days.
By occasion
Sunbathing and beach days: classic full-coverage high-waisted bottoms in versatile prints.
Swimming and active: high-waisted bottoms with secure side bands stay in place better than tie sides during active swimming.
Holiday styling: retro high-waisted sets paired with sarongs and statement sunglasses for a polished beach look.
Pool and resort: high-waisted Brazilian cuts give the trend on top and the coverage you want at the waist.
How to style a high-waisted bikini
A high-waisted bikini is easy to mix and match. For example, try:
a bandeau bikini top for a strapless look
a push-up bikini for extra lift
a triangle bikini for a minimalist look
Complete your beach outfit with a sarong or discover the latest swimwear trends.
How to care for your high-waisted bikini
High-waisted bikinis with shaping fabric last longest with a little extra care:
Rinse immediately in cool fresh water after swimming, especially after chlorine, salt water, or sun cream.
Hand wash gently with a mild detergent. Avoid wringing or twisting, which can damage shaping fabric and elastic.
Lay flat to dry out of direct sunlight to preserve elasticity and colour.
Avoid rough surfaces, as sitting on textured stone or rocks can damage delicate fabrics.
Rotate your bikinis if you wear them often. 24 hours between wears keeps the shaping fabric in peak condition.
Frequently Asked Questions about high waist bikinis
What are high-waist bikini bottoms?
High-waisted bikini bottoms are bikini briefs with a raised waistline. The bottoms sit higher on the tummy than standard bikini briefs and provide extra coverage.
Why choose a high-waisted bikini?
A high-waisted bikini offers more coverage around the tummy and accentuates the waist. Many women choose this style because it feels comfortable and is flattering.
What is the difference between a high-leg and a high-waist bikini?
A high-waist bikini has a higher waistline. A high-leg bikini has a higher cut at the leg opening. One style emphasises the waist, the other the length of the legs.
Do high-waisted bikinis have a shaping effect?
Some styles have a slight shaping effect thanks to a firm fabric or extra lining. This creates a smooth look without feeling uncomfortable.
Who is a high-waisted bikini suitable for?
A high-waisted bikini is suitable for anyone who feels more comfortable with extra coverage around the tummy. The style suits various body types and is available in a wide range of designs.
Are high-waisted bikinis flattering on shorter or petite figures?
Yes, but choose a slightly lower rise that sits just under the navel rather than well above it. A very high rise can shorten the look of the torso on petite frames. A high-waisted Brazilian cut works particularly well for petite shapes.
Are high-waisted bikinis flattering on taller figures?
Yes, and you have more flexibility on the rise, as both classic and very-high-rise cuts work well on taller frames, especially paired with a high-leg cut for a leg-lengthening look.
