One of the standout features of 80s swim suits was the high-cut leg. This design gave the illusion of longer legs and became one of the most recognizable silhouettes of the time. It was a fashion statement that also reflected a growing emphasis on fitness and toned bodies. Paired with low scoop backs and thin straps, the look was both athletic and fashion-forward.
Like most things 80s, color was another big story. You’d find neon brights, sharp color blocking, geometric patterns and the occasional splash of metallic. Swimsuits came in sleek black, hot pink or icy turquoise, often with contrasting panels that were designed to flatter the figure. Some even came with belts, zippers or mesh inserts. It wasn’t unusual for a suit to be just as suitable for lounging as it was for actually swimming.
The influence of aerobics and dancewear could be seen in many styles too. Racerbacks, turtleneck fronts and dramatic cut-outs weren’t limited to leotards — they made their way into swim fashion, creating a sporty-meets-glam mix that felt very on-trend for the time. Designers also experimented with texture, using waffle knits and ruched fabric to offer structure and stretch where it mattered.
We’ve pulled together a collection of photos and articles that showcase what made 80s swimsuits so distinctive. From sleek one-pieces to layered three-piece sets, you’ll find lots of inspiration (and maybe a little nostalgia) in the looks that once turned heads from coast to coast.
Fashionable ’80s swimsuits: Here comes the sun (1986)
Time to shine in a swimsuit that makes you look terrific! (Why settle for anything less?)
Brunette Alison and blonde Larisa show off the newest, sexiest summer stunners for every figure type… yours included. Here, Alison’s racy turquoise suit-low, low armholes, high-cut neck-is an all-over slimmer. Strategic color banding on Larisa’s art-inspired print suit streamlines hips and thighs.
Your best beach looks, plus how to get a perfect fit… and a fab tan!
White suits are terrific
Two great tank suits in ever-flattering white . . . the most spectacular color with a tan. Larisa’s has wide-set straps for good bust support, is made of stretchy waffle knit that stays opaque when wet (something to watch out for when you buy a white suit). Alison’s has hourglass seaming, set off by buttons, that pulls the eye along with it, building beautiful curves.
’80s swimsuits: “Do I look too sexy?”
Alison’s suit of icy pink and black has a sleek racer’s T-strap. The black bottom is almost as thinning as a diet! Larisa wears a sliver of cleverly cut extended halter, bosom-baring at the sides and completely backless. The bottom is draped to slim as it skims over hips and derriere.
The best swimsuits in years
Crisscross straps on Alison’s two-toner play up a beautiful back, then wrap around to slim her torso. Larisa’s is seductively bare behind, has a turtleneck front that makes more of a smallish bust.
Below, right: For Alison, a star-struck three-piecer: a boned, bust-building bra and a flip of a miniskirt that camouflages thighs-over a teeny bikini bottom. For Larisa, a starry, supportive sports bra (great if you’re chesty) and fifties-style bottom, cut straight across… very back to the future.
MORE: Smart summery ’50s swimsuits for women (1955)
Below: Larisa’s yummy peach suit has a boned sweetheart top that highlights a ravishing bust line. Alison’s sleek black is draped high at thighs for smoother curves.
Our try-on-room checklist assures a sleek, comfortable fit.
- Bend over. Does swimsuit ride too high on derriere?
- Take a long, full-length look. Is the suit loose where it should be snug? So tight it creates bulges?
- Lean forward to check for fallout. This is especially important if you plan to swim in the suit.
- Relax in a chair to make sure the suit doesn’t bind or gap at the crotch.
- Raise your leg. Does the suit hike up? Does it pull around hips, thighs?
- Jog in place, twist, stretch, bend, to determine how the suit will perform when you are in motion.
- Raise arms above head. Do straps cut into shoulders?
- Consider the bikini area. Is it too skimpy? Do you have the time to spend on frequent waxing or shaving?
Which do you like best?
MORE: Swimsuits to be pretty at seashore and pool (1948)
Little black suits: Fashionable black swimsuits from 1984
Bold splashes of color and sequins, daring new cuts and graceful angles. The classic black swimsuit — with a twist.
80s swimsuits you can buy today
- Materials: bikini sets for women made with lightweight and stretchy fabric, comfortable to wear in summer day.
- Features: tummy control swimsuits for women with v neck, crisscross back, soft removable padded cups. The tops features cross back, and tie knot details. The back is adjustable so you can pick how it...
- Design: high waisted bikini sets for women with ruched bottom. Both sides of the bottom have drawstrings so you can have more coverage. The drawstring is attached with a metal ring, chic and...
- Quality and lightweight: the neon semi rimless sunglasses are made from PC and rubber, lightweight and will not burden you, not easy to break and can be applied for a long time
- Fit most people: the overall of the zigzag sunglasses is about 14.5 x 5.4 cm/ 5.71 x 2.13 inch, the temple of the sunglasses is about 15 cm/ 5.9 inch in length, the nose gap is about 2.8 cm/ 1.1 inch...
- 3 Styles: the package contains 3 pairs of semi rimless sunglasses in different styles, all frames of them come with different design including white frame, black frame and gradient color frame...
- Sufficient Quantity: the package contains 1 piece of fanny pack and 1 piece of bucket hat, which are colorful and cool, sufficient quantity and stylish style to meet your matching needs
- Suitable Size: the size of this men fanny pack is approx. 35 x 14 cm/ 13.78 x 5.51 inches, which has a large capacity to store many items, and it is with a buckle for to adjust; The 90's hat is...
- Reliable Materials: waist bag is mainly made of quality polyester fiber, which has delicate stitching and nice workmanship, smooth and reliable to use, not easy to fade, deform or tear, reusable and...
- Material: The 80s beach coverups for women is made in lightweight chiffon,soft,breathable,quick drying and stays cool to enjoy your summertime.
- Size: 90s Sarong coverups is 55 x 19 inches(140*48 cm) in one size.And be rolled into a compact size for your beach bag.
- Design: The tie of the beach sarong is long enough,it is easy to tie,there is extra room and wear in multiple ways as you like.You can tie the beach towel on your hips,chest,or put it on your...
- Features: The women one piece swimsuits with square neckline retains popvil's distinctive neon colors, which contrast with the neon shell edge stitching for a playful touch. Make you stand out.
- Slimming Tummy Control: The black one piece swimsuit for women designed with both style and comfort, provides excellent tummy control and support. Adjustable thick straps give the swimsuits a great...
- Occasion:The women swimsuit is suitable for Swimming, Tropical Vacations, Summer, Beach & Pool, Honeymoon, Cruise. A Best Holiday Gifts for Mom, Wife, or Women You Love.
- Bandeau Square Neck One Piece Swimsuits:Featuring a timeless square neckline and delicate spaghetti straps, these one piece bathing suit for women offer a chic, minimalist look. Perfect for your next...
- Removable Padding:This padded bathing suit comes with soft, removable cups that allow you to customize your level of support and shape. Ideal for active swimmers or those looking for a smooth, modest...
- Cheeky Coverage: The cheeky swimsuit is fully lined, and the one pieces bottom provide just the right amount of medium coverage, protecting privacy while visually lengthening your legs
- Material:98% Nylon, with pad,All of color swimsuits are not see-through.All of swimsuits are Front and Rear lined. The colour in this material will not fade.
- low back.high cut,slim fit,show off sexy curves.High elasticity fabric ,Neon Shine color ,Classic style
- Classic swimsuit,Make Your Legs Look Longer in this Swimsuit,This swimsuit is a such a flattering cut for all body types and a classic edition to any wardrobe
- 80s Neon Earrings:Multi-color 80s neon earrings,different color can be match different styles,making you look more beautiful, eye-catching accessories in retro style.
- Material Size:These colorful lightning made of acrylic,There is a protective film on the surface,you can peel it off when wearing,the earrings will more brighter, not easy to fade, comfortable to...
- Unique Design:This 80s retro acrylic earrings are bright color and retro design, so they will make you stand out in your 80s party and attract eyes of audience,and especially suit for Halloween party.
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Can You Identify All Of The Models In These Pictures?