International travel is still up in the air, but no matter. The UK weather is blessing us with a heatwave, and I’ve found the best bikinis for you to take with you on your next staycation, or simply enjoy in the comfort of your garden/balcony.

Two-pieces can be off-putting, but choose the right cut and shape, and they’ll be your most flattering piece of swimwear. And where swimsuit trends come and go, you can always count on a classic bikini to stand the test of time, just make sure you don’t scrimp on the quality.

Not sure where to start? GYKO swimwear founder Sophie shares her top tips for bikini shopping, from which styles suit your body shape to which fabrics to look out for.

Best bikinis for small busts

‘Want some extra lift without lots of structured padding? Look for double lined tops which feature ruching in the middle or halter tops that lift and draw inwards. Avoid tube tops which flatten and often slip down’.

Best bikinis for large busts

‘Just because you have a larger bust doesn’t mean your bikini should have to look like a supportive bra. Opt for thicker shoulder straps and under-bust banding instead of underwire. You’ll still get all the support you need and as long as the straps are adjustable you should find the perfect fit’.

Best bikinis for short women

‘To elongate your legs opt for a high-cut bottom or one-piece or choose a pair of bottoms that you can style above your hip such as a tie-side’.

Best bikinis for hourglass figures

‘You know that perfect pear of high waisted jeans you have which you feel nips in your waist just perfectly? The swimwear version of this can be found in high-waisted bottoms which feature a tie mechanism at the waist, or panelled swimwear with simple vertical and horizontal seams which do the same trick’.

How to buy a timeless bikini

‘Colour is everything, it’s fun to choose colours you wouldn’t usually go for. Whilst I love being bold, if you find yourself always choosing bright colours and being annoyed at the colour they fade to next summer (note: good swim fabric shouldn’t do this so check-in on the quality first), then why not try earthier tones, a rust or khaki green – natural colours look brilliant on a wide range of skin tones’.

How to style a bikini

Great bikini tops can easily work as daytime outfits, paired with the right high-waisted trouser or skirt. If you can’t be bothered to layer, you’ll be pleased to hear sarongs have made a huge comeback for this season. Opt for airy fabrics such as silk or linen, in simple hues or prints that will enhance your swimwear rather than clash with it. Make sure you accessorise with a gorgeous beach bag too.

Where to buy bikinis online

Scroll down for our edit of the best bikinis for summer 2021, including some beautiful triangle bikinis, bandeau tops and high-waisted bottoms.

The post The best bikinis to cover all your staycation needs appeared first on Marie Claire.