String Bikinis: Sexy, Adjustable Tie Swimwear

A string bikini is a swimsuit built from thin string ties that knot at the neck, back and hips instead of fixed bands, so you set the fit yourself. Because "string" is the construction rather than a coverage level, it ranges from a classic tie-side look to barely-there cuts.

It's named for its signature string ties — the slim straps that fasten the top and bottom with knots rather than clasps or fixed bands. Those ties are what make the style adjustable and give it its distinctive, minimal look.

Yes — "stringkini" is just a shortened spelling of string bikini. It's the same tie-string style, with the same range of cuts; the spelling doesn't change the product.

Yes — that's their biggest advantage. You tighten or loosen each tie to your shape, which makes them forgiving if you're between sizes or a different size top and bottom. It's also why string styles mix and match so easily.

When sized and tied correctly, yes. Set even tension on both sides and finish with a secure, even bow rather than a tight knot. They're built for lounging, tanning and confident swim moments rather than laps or high-impact movement. If the strings slide out of place, go down a size.

Untie it first, then retie it on your body so it fits you, not the hanger. Set equal tension on both hip ties so the bottom sits level, and finish with a simple, even bow that's secure but easy to undo — never double-knot, since tight knots damage the strings. Adjust the neck tie for lift, and untie after each wear to keep the shape.

Yes — minimal fabric means fewer tan lines, and you can reposition the ties through the day for an even tan. That's a big part of why string and minimal cuts are tanning favorites. Go narrower with a g-string back for the fewest marks.

They overlap. "Triangle" describes the cup shape; "string" describes the tie construction — and most triangle bikinis are string bikinis because they fasten with ties. A string bikini can also use other top shapes, so string is the broader term.

A g-string bikini has the narrowest back of any cut — a thin strap in place of a fuller seat — for the cleanest line and the fewest tan marks. It's the most minimal string back. See g-string bikinis.

Both describe the shape the back straps make — a "V" or "Y" of string instead of a full seat. They sit alongside the g-string at the most minimal, narrowest end of string back cuts.

It's a string set scaled down to minimal coverage — small cups on slim ties with a narrow bottom. For the smallest cuts we carry, see tiny and micro bikinis.

A string bikini with a brazilian back — cheeky, contoured coverage that's bolder than a classic seat but more balanced than a thong. It keeps the adjustable tie sides. See brazilian bikinis.

The tie construction makes string one of the more forgiving, plus-size-friendly options, since you adjust each tie rather than relying on fixed sizing. Look for halter-tie tops for added support. Check each product's size range for specifics.

Standard string tops give light support, but you don't have to skip the style. Look for padded string tops, or styles with underwire, which add real hold for a fuller bust. A halter-style tie also adds lift while keeping the string look. Set the ties snug and even.

Very — a classic triangle string is a smaller bust's easy classic, and minimal string styles wear especially well. You also have the most freedom to go to the barely-there end if you want.

Yes — and there's no need to buy a matching set, which is part of the appeal of two-piece swimwear. String is the easiest cut to mix because the ties adjust to fit: pick a top and bottom separately, in different sizes if needed, or pair a bold top with a more balanced bottom. Keep one color story and the two pieces read as a set.

Rinse in cool water after every swim, hand wash gently, and lay flat to dry. Undo the knots before washing so the ties keep their stretch, and avoid heat and harsh detergents, which weaken the elastic. Store flat and fully dry.

HauteFlair's string bikini edit gathers adjustable tie-side swim in one place — classic, brazilian, thong, g-string and tiny back cuts. Browse the styles above, or compare every coverage level in all bikinis.