These 25 Retro Bathing Suits Are a Vintage Dream
Nostalgia vibes tuggin' at your heartstrings.
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When thinking about "retro style," does the image of Betty Boop wearing a polka-dot bathing suit instantly pop up in your mind, or is it just me? We're def onto something with that lil thought bubble, but while the word "retro" in a fashion context may conjure images of pinup girls in high-waisted swimsuits, the term actually applies to all past decades, just like "vintage" does! If you're a nostalgic person, you're prob into reviving old styles into your everyday–especially your swimwear. Maybe that's because it's just way easier to switch up your entire vibe in swim styles as opposed to your everyday looks, because there's not as much material to work with! Or, maybe there's just something about being near a pool that makes you feel your most carefree, adventurous, and open to trying to new things all at the same time.
Whatever it is, we feel ya and we're here to help you find an iconic retro bathing suit style! Considering there are seriously endless vintage swimsuit designs that are still pretty popular today, you may be interested in a few of your own. We've curated a diverse list of the best retro bathing suits you need to live out your beach bum dreams. Oh, and if you're typically not as into retro fashion, brace yourself. You just might be converted by these super chic examples below!
Our top retro bathing suit picks of 2023:
Keep scrolling for a deep dive (see what I did there?) of vintage swimsuits and see if you're ready to be a whole retro mood the next time you take to the water (or just wanna bask in the sun)! From high-waisted styles to lowback and other fab one-pieces, here are all the all the swimsuit vibes you need.
Alexandra Miro Whitney Belted Swimsuit
We love a black & white moment, don't we? This look is perfectly simple and stylish.
Leslie Amon Marilyn Gingham Bikini
We obviously had to include gingham! This adorable set is perfect for hangin' pool side or for your next lunch date.
Montce Mara Floral Cabana (w/ Trim) Bikini Top
Montce Mara Floral Cabana (w/ Trim) Bikini Top
This ditzy floral print is romantic and timeless. Also, these removable shoulder details are major!
Norma Kamali Bill Mio Shirred s=Wwimsuit
Norma Kamali Bill Mio Shirred s=Wwimsuit
This stunner is reminiscent of the suit Rachel McAdams wears in The Notebook... if you're a bird, I'm a bird, right?!
Retro Stage 1950s Cherry Summer Halter Swimsuit
Retro Stage 1950s Cherry Summer Halter Swimsuit
Here's a nod to the 1950s with this playful cherry-print number featuring a halter neckline and ruching details.
Lisa Marie Fernandez Poppy Button-Embellished Bikini
Lisa Marie Fernandez Poppy Button-Embellished Bikini
Honestly can't get over the button details on this high-waisted style. The mix and match colors = classic glamour. You'll be sure to stand out like the vintage queen you are.
Summersalt The Ruffle Oasis
I don't make the rules...but polka dots never go out of style! This suit provides support with built in soft cups and coverage with a seam at the natural waist. We love to see it.
Marysia Salento Top in Azure
Mama Mia. The design of this set is reminiscent of a few different stylish decades. Def add this one to your cart if you're all about old-Hollywood vibes.
Hammies Bikini
Get into this coral! Inspired from a 1960s original style, this bikini is a vintage gal's dream.
Alemais Lou Belted One-Piece Swimsuit
This eye-catching suit is an instant example of bridging the gap between vintage and current! The mosaic pattern, belted waist, and trim details are fabulous!
Frankie's Bikinis Farah Ruffle One Piece Swimsuit
Frankie's Bikinis Farah Ruffle One Piece Swimsuit
Calling all ladies in waiting! This lavender swimsuit is giving Bridgerton in all the best ways.
Asos Reclaimed Vintage Inspired Geo Print Bikini Set
Asos Reclaimed Vintage Inspired Geo Print Bikini Set
Send peace, love, and all the positive vibes everywhere you go in this groovy, geo-print bikini.
PQ Swim Link Belted One Piece Swimsuit
PQ Swim Link Belted One Piece Swimsuit
This gorgeous blue one-piece is sleek and racks up instant cool girl points. We're v into that link belt, too.
SAME The Grace Top (Ribbed Black/Cream)
SAME The Grace Top (Ribbed Black/Cream)
Grace Kelly meets Marilyn Monroe with this lady-like black and white set—we are talking ultimate, it-girl beach fit.
Karla Colletto Basics Ruched Swimsuit
'90s Barbie gals, get yourself this cute pink number! (Square necklines were staples then.) This swimsuit features a supportive silent underwire and sculpting side-ruching.
Fleur Du Mal Suspender One Piece Swimsuit
Fleur Du Mal Suspender One Piece Swimsuit
This one-piece features fun suspender-style rings and cutouts to really amp up the '80s workout-meets-beach babe look.
Joanie Clothing Coralie Polka Dot Print Halter Neck Adjustable Swimsuit
Joanie Clothing Coralie Polka Dot Print Halter Neck Adjustable Swimsuit
This highly-rated swimsuit features a sweetheart neckline, ruched padded cups, and bum coverage. It's the classic polka-dot fashion bombshell feel you've been waiting for!
CIN CIN Disco Hoop One Piece
CIN CIN Disco Hoop One Piece
You'll tap into eclectic vibes wherever you are in this fun print! Throw on your favorite oversized sunnies and transport back to the '70s in no time!
Unique Vintage White Shirred Skirt Swim Bottom
Unique Vintage White Shirred Skirt Swim Bottom
Bring all the drama to the beach with some ruffle action! This solid, white bikini is fully lined and sure to bring out your flirty side.
ModCloth Let Fun Bloom One-Piece Swimsuit
ModCloth Let Fun Bloom One-Piece Swimsuit
This one boasts a scoop neckline and full-coverage bottoms with a darling A-line dress silhouette. Complete with an all over '70s-inspired bouquet print, this breezy style is ready to make a splash!
Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien is the fashion editor at Cosmopolitan, writing weighty and witty stories that run the gamut of gushing over Zendaya to convincing you of everything you need in your closet! She began her journey in the industry with a fashion and faith blog and an internship at Elle.com almost 10 years ago. Since then, she's also served as the style editor at The Haitian Times. The Haitian-American pageant queen is a Syracuse Masters graduate and the author of two books, including: Claim Your Crown. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter: @iamtarahlynn.
Laynie Rouch is the Fashion Assistant at Cosmopolitan where she has a hand in all things fashion. She covers the Scandinavian, Australian and Asian markets as well as homeware, denim, lingerie, and swimwear. In between editorial shoots she contributes to shopping pages and trend roundups online. Laynie has previously worked for Harper’s BAZAAR and InStyle Magazine. Find her on Instagram and follow along!
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