The Thong Bikini Boom: 6 Reasons Why the Skimpiest Swimwear Still Captivates

When temperatures skyrocket, most of us are inclined to show off a little more skin. And if there’s one style of bikini bottom that promises to do all that and more, it’s the thong bikini.


Thong bikini bottoms were built to bare (almost) it all, but there’s more to this classic string bikini bottom style than meets the eye. From kissing tan lines goodbye to giving you the mobility to stay active on vacation, this style lets you glide from hotel to the beach to cocktail hour at a moment’s notice.


Still hesitant? In this article we'll discover 6 reasons why thongs deserve a moment in your wardrobe and some choice tips for rocking yours with flair.

The Bikini Boom and the Cultural Rise of the Thong

The current thong bikini trend has less to do with novelty and more to do with rediscovery. Thong bikinis have existed for decades, with early influence from Brazilian beachwear and the work of designer Gernreich, who challenged conventional ideas of coverage swimwear.


Today, the popularity of thong silhouettes reflects:


  • A growing acceptance of daring swimwear
  • A move away from restrictive norms
  • Swimwear as self-expression rather than concealment

This cultural shift has allowed thong bikini bottoms to move comfortably into mainstream fashion circles while retaining their sense of sophistication.


Let’s dive into 6 of this style’s best assets before you set off to reveal yours.

#1 A Flattering Fit Across Body Types

One of the most enduring reasons women choose a thong bikini is its flattering fit. Designed to follow the body’s natural lines, the thong enhances rather than hides.


The thong bathing suit has its innovative structure to thank for making every body type look gorgeous, seamlessly complementing three key zones of your physique:


  • Butt – The typical thong design works to give the illusion of a lifted butt. While the fabric-heavy look of full-coverage swimwear can drown out the natural curves and contours of your rear, thongs create clean, thin lines that work to draw attention up and towards the navel, delivering a visual impression of a toned and enhanced rear.
  • Legs – Because thongs don’t have a panty line beginning at the base of your bottom, it invites the eye further up towards the navel. By refocusing attention upwards, thongs visually extend the line of your legs, making them look longer and leaner — perfect for long, romantic walks on the beach.
  • Waist – The sharp, slim construction of thongs slip on effortlessly over or under your natural waistline, conforming to your natural curves and accentuating your waist in the best ways. To enhance your hourglass figure further, look for tanga-style thongs or designs with tie sides, which enable you to adjust your swimsuit to your measurements.

Bid “Ciao!” to the days of too-tight, pinching bottoms, and “Ola!” to your golden glory days of a trusty thong swimsuit. 

#2 To Reduce Tan Lines

Many of us will end the season with our best-of-summer moments engraved in our memories, but we could do without the tan lines that accompany them. Here's why women wear thong bikinis for sun:


  • Minimal straps reduce visible linesa
  • Barely-there coverage allows you to sunbathe comfortably
  • Ideal for long, uninterrupted days by the poolside or shore

As the next best thing to hitting the beach au natural, a thong beach bikini bottom erases noticeable tan lines, leaving you with luminous legs and glowing glutes. It’s a must-have if your idea of paradise is basking in the sunshine and getting your tan on.

#3 Lightweight Comfort That Moves With You

Contrary to outdated assumptions, thong bikinis are usually even more comfortable than fuller coverage options. Many people avoid thongs because they’re concerned about feeling stuffy, but not so! Thongs are lightweight, and their delicate design gives them a barely-there fit that feels like a dream to wear. Their construction helps you avoid bunching, wedgies, or stretching out your bottoms by fussing with them excessively.


Comfort benefits include:


  • Lightweight swimsuit design
  • Flexible thong-style construction
  • A secure yet barely-there feel

Whether swimming, walking, or transitioning into a beach look, thong styles move with the body rather than against it.


Coziest Thong Bikini Designs


Thongs come in a variety of cuts and designs, but the three below are by far some of the coziest on the market:


  • The Cheeky Bottom – The hybrid between the classic thong and full coverage bikini bottoms, cheeky bottoms are cut in a V-shape. They give beach-goers just a glimpse of your cheeks, with a triangle of fabric cresting the top of your bum to round it into a flattering peach shape. This type of swim bottom goes exceptionally well with a triangle bikini top, which balances out an hourglass silhouette.
  • The Brazilian – A homage to the thongs’ South American roots, Brazilian bottoms provide a slightly lower cut than Tangas. They’re designed to show off some sultry side-cheek while providing more coverage vertically. It’s a quintessential cut for lengthening your legs while providing a snug fit that doesn’t require constant readjustment.

These thong styles are designed to make you feel comfortable physically and mentally, essential for relishing your beach day and having your day in the sun.

#4 Designed for Flexibility and Activity

If you intend to live it up on your next beach vacation, invest in adjustable coverage bikini bottoms that won’t slow you down for a second.


From morning swims to spontaneous beach walks, thong bikinis support movement without restriction. Adjustable thong bikini bottoms, such as tie-side or cheeky variations, allow wearers to tailor fit and coverage.


This flexibility makes thong swimwear a practical swimwear choice for women who value:


  • Ease of movement
  • Adaptability throughout the day
  • A silhouette that stays in place

It’s swimwear designed for living, not posing.

#5 Reduces Panty Lines for Seamless Styling

If you’ve ever worn a full-coverage bikini bottom with your favorite pair of tight-fitting jeans, you know the struggle: smoothing out panty lines throughout the day, and generally feeling all stuffed up.


Thong bikinis integrate effortlessly into complete beachwear looks. Their slim profile makes them ideal under:


  • Sheer dresses
  • Lightweight skirts
  • Relaxed beach layers

Unlike bulkier swimsuit styles, thong bikini bottoms remain invisible under clothing, making them a natural companion for modern resort dressing.

#6 To Show Off Your Fashion Sense

If you spend all day at the beach, you want to make an impression that lasts longer than a sandcastle at high tide—so thank goodness the thong bikini bottoms trend is back and better than ever.2


For many women, the thong represents self-assurance and body positivity rather than attention-seeking.


Thong bikini styles today range from:


  • Classic and minimalistic
  • High-cut and chic
  • Micro thong silhouettes for those drawn to bold simplicity

Each option allows for self-expression while maintaining sophistication and balance.

Celebrity, Influencer, and Runway Influence

Visibility plays a role in normalising the thong bikini silhouette. Many influencers and celebrities wear thong bikinis with ease, reinforcing the idea that the style is wearable, not extreme.


Where we see thong bikinis embraced:


  • On the runway in high fashion collections
  • Across platforms like Instagram and TikTok
  • On shows like Love Island and in curated social media feeds

This presence reframes the thong as stylish rather than shocking.

How to Choose a Thong Bikini That Feels Chic

To choose a thong bikini that feels refined, focus on construction and proportion rather than trends.


Key considerations when you choose a thong bikini:


  • Supportive bikini tops to balance the silhouette
  • Thong bottoms that sit comfortably without digging in
  • Fabric quality that offers stretch and recovery

The right thong bikini should make you feel confident, not self-conscious.

Tips For Looking Gorgeous In Your Thong Bikini

The virtues of the thong bikini are seemingly endless, but the most important thing you can do before slipping into your beachside skivvies is to amplify your confidence.


Read on for three tips for feeling like a siren in your bare-it-all bikini bottoms.


Embrace Your Unique Shape


With so many variations on the thong theme, this style of bikini is built for all body types—but it can help to know which summer styles bring the best of your figure to the fore.3


Here’s a quickfire guide to choosing designs to worship three common body types:


  • Apple – Adorable “apple” figures look even more gorgeous with swimsuits that accentuate their waistline. Opt for high-rise thongs—these offer plenty of coverage in the front, visually cinch the waist, and lift your bum all in one go.
  • Pear – If you have a pear or hourglass silhouette, look for a fuller coverage thong that can keep you feeling comfortable while highlighting your derriére. Brazilian cuts strike a happy and shapely medium for thong novices—and if you’re feeling glamorous, shoot for styles that feature frontal hardware.
  • Banana – Tall, athletic, or leaner body types look ravishing in cheeky thongs that sit lower on the hips. While high-rise designs can often fall or slip down, low-rise bottoms rest at your waist to hug your bum snugly. Add shape and vibrancy by choosing one in a flirty, colorful pattern.


Toss On Some Accessories


Those bringing their thongs on beach sands can elevate their ensemble with statement beach accessories that jive with their style. These essentials work like a charm for turning the boardwalk into a catwalk:


  • Anklet – Thongs are your #1 ally when it comes to lengthening your legs, so why not add a little flair at your ankles? A boho anklet serves as a subtle yet flirty piece of jewelry to complement a feature that’s normally kept under wraps.
  • Sarongs – Speaking of wraps, effortless, breezy oh-so-chic beach sarongs keep your skin protected while letting you indulge in a timeless fashion moment. It’s the ideal accessory if you need a backup garment to drift from the beach to a golden-hour cocktail party.
  • Sandals – Pair your swim bottoms with a pair of thonged sandals—and if you want to double down on your booty boost, go with heels. By combining the power of heels with a notice-me thong, you’ll make your beach day outfit unstoppable.

The takeaway? Just because thongs flaunt less fabric doesn’t mean you need to leave your sense of style at home. With a few delicate touches, you can transform your threadbare bottoms into a full-on fashion statement.

Get Your Thong Bikini Fix with ViX

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Whether you just want a peek of Cheekies or are tempted by Tangas, introducing a chic thong bikini bottom to your swimwear rotation is sure to inspire your personal summer of love.

ViX’s bright, beautiful luxury designer swimwear pieces are built to last—and make a lasting impression. Shop our diverse array of string bikini bottoms, tops, one-pieces, and accessories to find your next signature piece and your beachside bliss.

her you just want a peek of Cheekies or are tempted by Tangas, introducing a chic thong bikini bottom to your swimwear rotation is sure to inspire your personal summer of love.



ViX’s bright, beautiful luxury designer swimwear pieces are built to last—and make a lasting impression. Shop our diverse array of string bikini bottoms, tops, one-pieces, and accessories to find your next signature piece and your beachside bliss.

Isabella Martins

Contributing Writer