Bikini bottoms are where fit and confidence come together. The right cut creates balance, the right size eliminates awkward adjusting, and the right fabric keeps everything in place whether you're lying on Mindil Beach or diving into Litchfield's rock pools. Here's your complete guide.
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Bikini Bottom Styles and Coverage Levels
Tie-Side Bikini Bottoms
Adjustable ties at the hip give a customisable fit and create a flattering V-shape on the hip. Popular in Australian beach fashion. Good for hourglass and pear-shaped figures. The ties can come undone in rough surf — better for low-activity beach days.
Cheeky Bikini Bottoms
Higher cut at the back, less coverage, elongates the leg. Popular for sunbathing. Best when the fit is snug so the bottom stays put during activity.
Mid-Rise Brief / Classic Brief
The most versatile style. Moderate coverage front and back, flattering on most body types. Works equally well for sunbaking and active swimming.
High-Waist Bikini Bottoms
On-trend, retro-inspired, full tummy coverage. Excellent for women who prefer more coverage or who want to visually define the waist. Pairs beautifully with triangle and bandeau tops.
Full Brief
Maximum coverage. Great for active water sports, reef snorkelling and anyone who wants total confidence in the water. Often pairs with rash vest tops for full UV protection.
Brazilian / Micro Bottoms
Minimal coverage, high-cut legs. For the beach only — not recommended for swimming laps or water sports.
How to Size Bikini Bottoms
Measure your hips at the fullest point. Most Australian brands use a 10–16 sizing system where:
- Size 10 = approximately 88–92cm hips
- Size 12 = approximately 93–97cm hips
- Size 14 = approximately 98–103cm hips
- Size 16 = approximately 104–109cm hips
If you're between sizes, size up for more coverage styles and size down for tie-side (as you can adjust the ties).
Mix and Match Tip
One of the biggest advantages of bikini separates is getting different sizes on top and bottom. Many Australian women wear a different size up top versus the hip. Buying separates solves this perfectly. See our Mix and Match Guide for pairing tips.
Best Brands for Bikini Bottoms
- Seafolly — Wide range of prints, excellent mid-rise and tie-side options
- Baku — On-trend cuts including high-waist and cheeky styles
- Tigerlily — Boho prints, great tie-side and cheeky options
- Bond-Eye — Fashion-forward, minimal styling, Instagram-popular
- Sunseeker — Full-figure range up to size 24, excellent brief options
- Sea Level — Modest full brief options, great for reef and active swimming
Shop Bikini Bottoms at Splash Swimwear
Browse our full range of bikini bottoms — all available as separates so you can mix and match with our bikini tops range.