Cutout swimsuits might sound daring, but they’re the perfect way to show off just enough skin. From just a hint in one-pieces to itty bitty bikinis, there are options out there for every style—and body type. “Cutouts are just cute and sexy,” says Sandra Davidoff, Director of Corporate Marketing/PR at SWIM USA. “These silhouettes provide a peek-a-boo essence, camouflaging target areas while providing support and comfort.” That’s what can make them the perfect alternative to bikinis. “The retro hi leg or low side one-piece style is a great option, covers the tummy and still has a sexy appeal, showing some skin but still providing coverage,” Davidoff says. “Strategic cutout silhouettes are a good alternative—a little skin can go a long way.”
The secret for shopping for a cutout swimsuit? “First of all, always make sure the swimsuit fits you well,” Davidoff says. “You should be able to raise your hands over your head without anything spilling out, bend over without anything showing, and then make certain the cutouts are strategically placed so that your movements are not hindered. The suit should support your bust and cover your tush.” These cutout swimsuits are a great place to start shopping:
Daylight Dip One-Piece Swimsuit, $79, modcloth.com. Nautical nonchalance meets a bit of patriotism in this red, white and blue number. It’ll make a splash long after the Fourth of July.
Tabula Rasa Binu Crochet Swimsuit, $495, tabularasa-ny.com. So many pretty details make this a standout swimsuit: the crochet flourish, double one-shoulder strap, fun fringe, and cinching cutout design.
Summersalt The Intercoastal, $95, summersalt.com. This one is a trend twofer: colorblocking and cutouts for a contemporary preppy vibe. The contrasting band at the waist makes it extra slimming.
Malia Mills Emmanuelle Maillot, $405, maliamills.com. Talk about a velvet crush! The rich blue classic maillot has subtle cutouts in the front but a party in the back.
LOFT Beach Strapless Twist One Piece Swimsuit, $89.50, loft.com. The sweetheart neckline, ruching, and mild cutouts make this a triple hit for flattering the body. Plus, the bright hue looks good on every skin tone.
La Porte Ricah Cut Out Cheeky Bikini, $98 for top and $88 for bottom, laporteswim.com. Get double the wear with this reversible suit. The high-neck crop top delivers more coverage than a typical bikini.
Seafolly Active Swim Multi Strap Surfsuit, $202, seafolly.com. Whether or not you actually will hang ten in this surfsuit, the sleek yet sporty silhouette gets a sassy touch with the cutout details.
Amoressa Only Live Twice Sonder One Piece Swimsuit, $168, bloomingdales.com. Play just a bit of peek-a-boo with this subtle yet flirty cut. The gold hardware makes the cutouts pop even more.
Sweaty Betty Carve Swimsuit, $120, sweatybetty.com. Talk about white hot! The cutout in the back flaunts a hint of skin, while the mesh side panels are a fun tease. Plus, the sporty silhouette and fabric make it ideal for beach volleyball or frisbee.
MOD by Parfait Bold Cut-Out Swimwear, $45 for top and $24 for bottom, classicshapewear.com. Bra sizing means the bikini top will fit juuuust right, while side bones and an underbust band keep it in place.
Beach Betty by Miracle Brands Women’s Slimming Control Colorblock Cut Out One Piece, $59.99, target.com. The two-tone orange and burgundy make an unlikely combo for the beach. Even better: the control fabric slims while the high cut legs elongate your stems.
Miraclesuit Jena One-Shoulder One-Piece Swimsuit, $164, nordstrom.com. The sheer panels let you experiment with the cutout trend while delivering full coverage. Plus, the suit promises to shave off 10 pounds with its shaping Miratex fabric and draped panels.
Ashley Graham x Swimsuits For All Meknes Underwire Swimsuit, $108, swimsuitsforall.com. When model Ashley Graham teams up for a design collaboration, you know it’s going to be good. The pretty teal, intricate cutout design, and flattering silhouette are in for the win.
