Tickets are booked, carry-ons dusted off, and vacation rentals soon to be fully occupied. Travel is officially back, and if your first trip requires beach essentials for the July 4th holiday, you’re going to want to pack accordingly. 

Of course, if you’re already near water and have all your beach essentials on lock, bravo. But if you’re not as prepared and still plan on hot-footing it to the nearest shore for a splash-filled getaway, consider this a comprehensive guide to everything you’ll need for the long weekend ahead (or any other one that follows). 

From roomy totes and engaging beach reads to pretty swimsuits and matching cover-ups, we put together an all-star list for summer adventures consisting of sun-dappled snaps, tipsy brunches, and lazy afternoons whiling away in the sand. Shop our must-haves below.

Beach-bag mainstays

At the bare minimum, your beach tote should include a pretty towel and SPF (though more on that later). Some form of entertainment, like a book or low-key game, will keep you busy in between taking a dip and sipping coconut water with pruned fingers. An umbrella for shade is always welcome—as is a pool lounger or deck chair to keep you horizontal at all times.

Suns out, buns out

A beach? Without sunscreen? We would never. Cover all your bases with SPF for the face and body, then bring a bottle of soothing aloe lotion for after-sun skin hydration. Add a few other essentials in the mix, like a shimmery body oil for an all-day glow, plus some nourishing hair care products to ensure your waves look smooth pre- and post-dip. Not sure about you, but we can feel water drops glistening on our skin already…

Swimsuits and cover-ups 

Half the fun—if not a solid 75%—of going to the beach is deciding what swimsuit and cover-up to wear. Maybe your siren call comes in the form of a breezy linen dress over a strapless bikini, or maybe it’s something more chill, like a cabana shirt topping off a high-waisted set, or a sarong wrapped around a one-piece. Here’s all three, just in case. 

Snap-worthy outfits

If you want a look you can wear for the next 72 hours straight, we have a few ideas in mind. Opt for a boho print top and short shorts if you’re going for a no-fail casual combo. Care for something more dressed up? Try a cropped, puff-sleeve blouse with a flowy midi skirt for a minimalist take on a summer dressing. Lace-up sandals, quite literally, tie it all together.

The finishing touch

From ‘90s-inspired shades to summer camp jewelry and the perfect crochet bag, we’ve got you covered with every accessory needed to complete your ~lewk~ on and off the beach. Think terry cloth bucket hats (a.k.a. wearable hair towels), sunglasses straps, belly chains, sparkly chokers, and more. Consider this season your sartorial oyster! 

All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Temps are on the rise, vaccinations are rolling out, and plans are being made. Whether you’re taking a trip or keeping it local, summer calls for cute bikinis, and there are endless styles for every kind of summertime vibe. It’s hard to understate just how excited we are for the changing of the season—and we don’t just mean the weather. While we’re still taking important precautions to keep ourselves and our community safe, there’s no denying that people will be showing up and showing out with more enthusiasm than ever as summer kicks off.

We already did a deep dive on the best swim brands and one-piece swimsuits to shop this season, but if you’re dead set on rocking bikinis, this is the list for you. We broke down six key trends you’re about to see everywhere, from classic cuts to head-turning details. No matter which direction your beach mood board is going, there’s a pick for you on this list. So read on for the 24 cute bikinis we’re eyeing for long-awaited poolside hangs and beach days ahead.

One-Shoulder

Asymmetry is having a moment, and one-shoulder designs are destined to be the main character of so many wardrobes this summer. You can find one-shoulder bikinis in just about every print and color under the sun, in various thicknesses, and paired with a range of bottom styles. The playful trend is key for channeling elevated minimalism this season since it brings instant edge that doesn’t read overly trendy. It’s chic and sophisticated but still fun and offbeat.

Floss Detailing

Let’s face it—summer 2021 is going to be one of the horniest yet. So why not put your sex appeal on full display with the risqué floss trend? It’s hard to say why thin strips of fabric wrapped around the torso reads so sexy, but we’re guessing it has a little something to do with bondage—so hop on this trend if you’re ready to bless your followers with ample thirst traps. Whether you go with a flirty print or a solid color, you’ll be sure to turn some heads with this one.

Retro Prints

There’s no doubt that the ‘90s and early 2000s are still going strong in the trend department, but prints that nod at the ’60s and ‘70s are popping in swimwear. If you peruse the Instagram pages of top swim brands this season, you’ll find paisley, tie-dye, and retro floral print that will inspire you to play ABBA’s entire “Waterloo” album. So don’t be afraid to get a little groovy with your bikinis, whether your ’70s goddess of choice is Cher or Diana Ross.

Ruffles

We can’t talk about cute bikinis without bringing ruffles into the mix. After fashion took a backseat for over a year, you can count on statement textures and adornments to take center stage this summer—and the pool is a great place to play around with ruffles and bows. A little ruffle action adds a spritely zhoosh of playfulness and pizazz that’s top tier for a summer like this. Now isn’t the time to play things safe with style, so take a chance on dramatic silhouettes you’d normally avoid.

Hardware Accents

If you’d rather stick to a classic bikini but still want some extra flair, opt for metal details. Straps with metallic rings add retro flair while still appearing current, and how cute are the metal hearts on this hot pink number below? Also can never go wrong with pearls—they’re so classic and cute at the same time. 

Metallics

If there was ever a time to shine, it’s now, and there are plenty of shimmery swimsuits to choose from. It’s amazing how millions of teensy spots of glitter can take your suit up a notch, and just imagine how gorgeous these bikinis will look during golden hour. Take your pick from the dreamy hues here and get ready for luminescent sunset selfies that are straight fire.

Congrats! You made it through another winter of subzero temps and blanket-sized scarves, and it’s officially time to unearth the best swimsuit brands for the long-awaited summer ahead. We’re still practicing safety precautions, but things are looking a whole lot brighter than they were this time last year—which means it’s prime time to stock up on bathing suits you love. With a hot (vaccinated) girl summer ahead, balconies and patios will continue to serve as mini sanctuaries, but we’ll likely see more outdoor soireés this season—and hopefully more friends and family.

Plenty of dreamy trends for all style preferences and body types cropped up this year. From one-shoulder numbers to textured bikinis and metallic one-pieces, swimwear is looking offbeat (in the best way). It’s also looking more eco-friendly than ever, with a number of sustainable swimwear brands creating recyclable pieces that don’t skimp on style—or throw your budget to the summer breeze. Grab your sun hat, trusty face mask, and favorite SPF moisturizer—then shop the best swimsuit brands of 2021 ahead. 

Everlane

In our book, no wardrobe is complete without a few elevated basics from Everlane. The San Francisco-based brand prides itself on quality fabrics and craftsmanship at a competitive price point, and it launched its very first swim collection just in time for summer. Five Glamour staffers put the Everlane swim line to the test, and we weren’t disappointed. The suits were impressively well-made for the less-than-$100 price tag, and the cuts and colors felt modern yet timeless.

Summersalt

If you usually gravitate towards sporty or frilly swimsuits, head to Summersalt right now. The brand has an extensive selection of plus-size options, suits for long torsos, and flattering designs for every body type in between. Get in on florals, ruffles, solids, and modest designs for whatever’s on your summertime agenda.

Solid and Striped

Solid and Striped may be on the verge of turning 10, but the brand keeps its designs as fresh as ever. While you can still find plenty of classic bikinis and one-pieces that will never go out of style, Solid and Striped has a surprisingly trendy lineup this summer—from boho-esque knitwear to retro cut-outs and graphic prints.

Jade Swim

Jade Swim has a knack for minimalist silhouettes with modern, experimental details throughout. Think classic one-pieces with diagonal cut-outs in the back, barely-there triangle tops with high-waisted bottoms, and strapless numbers with ruched detailing and metallic finishes. Everything from the sustainable swim brand feels elevated but not overly fashun, striking a perfect balance for chic pool parties or getting the shot on your inaugural beach trip.

Madewell

Thought Madewell was just for cozy knitwear and damn good denim? One scroll through the brand’s swim section proves otherwise. True to form, it’s got plenty of quality basics, but also fresh cuts like square necklines and one-shoulder tops, board short-and-bikini-top sets, and groovy prints like ditsy floral and abstract geometry—at the reasonable price point we know and love.

Mara Hoffman

Greenwashing is real, and the fashion industry is notorious for smoke and mirrors around sustainability practices (here’s our take on what it really means to be planet-friendly with clothes). Despite all of the murkiness around sustainability in fashion, Mara Hoffman is the real deal—the trailblazing designer isn’t new to this, she’s true to this. And aside from her breezy yet elevated ready-to-wear, she makes seriously good swimwear that ranges from minimalist to risqué.

Faithfull the Brand

Shopping for a summer spent draped in prairie dresses? Be sure to drop by Faithfull the Brand’s swim section. All of the gingham, paisley, and floral print will be waiting for you—along with solid one-pieces and bikinis with details that hint at the brand’s signature dainty vibe.

Aerie

You probably know Aerie is your one-stop shop for comfortable underwear that costs less than a sad desk salad, but have you gotten into the swim section yet? The brand has so many cool options for every kind of summer aesthetic, and flattering designs for every body type. Whether you’re looking to test out some offbeat prints, show some skin, or stay covered, Aerie has a budget-friendly pick that’s right on trend.

Target

No, we still haven’t gotten over the stylish yet ridiculously well-priced swimwear section at Target. Even after all these years, the retailer continues to pump out trend-forward suits that are pleasantly affordable. So why not stock up on a few?

Eloquii

Eloquii is serving up swimwear so good, you’ll want to wear it whether you’re near water or not. Seriously, who knew we needed puff-sleeved bikinis so badly? From chic cut-outs to high-fashion silhouettes, the plus-size retailer did not come to play this season—and you’ll be hard-pressed to add just one to cart.

Onia

If you’re looking for clean lines, textured fabric, and elevated designs that are basic in the best way, shop Onia. These suits are well-made and timeless, so they’ll undoubtedly get plenty of use from season to season.

Vitamin A Swim

It’s not easy to find another brand with as wide a selection as Vitamin A Swim. From timeless bikinis to long-sleeve options, water-friendly athleisure sets, and a bestselling golden metallic fabric that will command any beachside hang, there’s something for everyone here. Yes, including tie-dye.

Swimsuits for All

Gone are the days when shopping for plus-size swimwear meant choosing between two frumpy styles you wouldn’t wish on your worst enemy. Thanks to boundary-breaking brands like Swimsuits for All, women of all shapes and sizes can get in on the season’s best cuts and prints—because every body deserves a plethora of options to choose from.

Andie

There’s no disappointment quite like ordering an amazing-looking swimsuit online, only for it to squeeze you in all the wrong places once you finally try it on. Luckily, Andie Swim created a Fit Finder quiz to ensure your suit is right on par with your personal preferences (and gathered data from wear tests on thousands of women), so you can rest assured you won’t be met with any unwelcome surprises when your package arrives. 

Chromat

Bring the runway poolside with an edgy pick from Chromat. The game-changing bodywear brand is celebrated for empowering people of all shapes, abilities, and sizes to feel amazing in the skin they’re in. And as you can see by the ladies below, these head-turning suits bring a bold, unapologetic energy that will make you feel like that girl this summer. Opt for neon pink or green, or remind everyone just how bold a white-hot moment can be.

Sara Cristina

Searching for something a little more extra? Feast your eyes on Sara Cristina’s swimwear line, chock-full of shimmer, pearls, ruche detailing, and unusual necklines that are sure to turn heads. While Y2K is definitely having a moment, the ‘70s never went anywhere, and we’re digging the disco aesthetic this line is giving.

Stone Fox Swim

Your beachy mood board isn’t complete without Stone Fox Swim. It’s the wanderlust-inducing brand you’ve likely already discovered while tapping for deets on your favorite L.A. influencer’s latest Malibu post. The spring 2021 collection has the most joyful, painterly florals and bold tiger print, but if neutrals are more your thing, it’s got you covered there, too. Scroll through the brand’s extensive selection of cuts that showcase every favorite asset under the sun, and then visit the mini collections to get something cute for your little one, too.

Monica Hansen Beachwear

After more than a year spent isolated in our individual quarantine caves, you can count on the masses showing up and showing out this summer. Monica Hansen Beachwear is the brand to watch if you’re into retro-inspired swimwear that serves ample sex appeal. The designer makes a case for feminine details like cross-body floss, metallic hardware, and super-high-cut silhouettes. This collection gives ‘70s vibes that say “go big or go home,” and we can’t get enough. 

ASOS

While you’re upgrading your summer wardrobe at ASOS, don’t forget to swing by the swim section. The brand has every color, print, and cut you could ever imagine—but it’s especially useful for ladies with fuller busts. Keep the girls in check without sacrificing style thanks to the long list of styles that can actually handle big boobs—starting with the picks below.

Ganni

Western chic, but make it swim. Bring the Ganni cool girl vibes to the beach with the brand’s statement one-pieces and louder-than-life prints. Once you snag a suit all you’ll need is a white button-down, high-rise shorts, and chunky slides for your debut Shot Girl Summer feed post. 

Montce

If you’re here for interesting texture, head straight to Montce for all the scrunched, ribbed, and knit swimwear your heart desires. The spring 2021 collection is an animal print lover’s dream, and it’s got various shades of green for every kind of poolside soireé. 

All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.