Shopping for a swimsuit at sixteen is a total minefield. Seriously. You’re stuck in this weird limbo where the "junior" section feels way too young—like, no thanks to the glittery butterfly patches—but the adult boutiques are sometimes a little too "resort wear" or just don't fit a teenage frame right. If you’re hunting for bathing suits for 16 year olds two piece styles, you basically want something that looks good on Instagram but won’t fall off the second you actually try to dive into a pool. It’s about that balance.
Most girls this age are looking for something that reflects their personality, whether that’s "clean girl" aesthetic or something more alt. Honestly, the biggest struggle isn't finding a suit; it's finding one that doesn't make you feel like you're wearing a costume.
Why the Sporty Cut is Dominating Right Now
You've probably noticed that the tiny, stringy triangles are kind of taking a backseat to the "sporty chic" look. Think brands like Jolyn or even the more athletic lines from PacSun. These aren't just for competitive swimmers. A square-neck top or a fixed-back crop top is basically the gold standard for bathing suits for 16 year olds two piece shoppers this year.
Why? Because they stay put.
If you’re at a beach volleyball game or just hanging at a lake house, you don't want to be adjusting your straps every five seconds. A thick-strap bikini top provides a lot more security than a halter. Plus, they double as a cute top if you throw some denim shorts over them. It's practical. It's easy. It just works.
I’ve seen a lot of 16-year-olds gravitating toward the ribbed fabric too. It’s thicker, which feels a bit more "premium" and less like those paper-thin suits you find in the clearance bin at the mall. The texture adds a bit of a vintage 90s feel that’s very much back in style.
High Waisted vs. Cheeky: The Great Debate
This is where things get controversial. Or at least, where everyone has a very strong opinion. High-waisted bottoms were the "it" thing for a few years because they offer that retro, secure feeling. They’re great for hiding a bit of midriff if you’re not feeling super confident that day, but some people find them a bit "diaper-ish" if the cut isn't exactly right.
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On the flip side, the "V-cut" or "cheeky" bottom is everywhere.
Retailers like Aerie have basically built an empire on the "Real Good" v-cut crossover waistbands. They sit lower in the front and higher on the hips, which honestly makes everyone’s legs look a mile long. If you’re 16 and still growing into your proportions, this cut is usually way more flattering than a standard hip-hugger.
Mix and Match is the Only Way to Go
Don't buy sets. Just don't.
Unless you are perfectly proportional, buying a "small" set usually means the top fits and the bottom doesn't, or vice versa. The best bathing suits for 16 year olds two piece setups are the ones you piece together yourself. Maybe you want a solid black athletic top with a funky, patterned bottom. Or maybe you need a Medium top for the support but a Small bottom.
Realistically, your body is still changing. Buying separates allows you to customize the fit to your actual measurements rather than some arbitrary size chart created by a designer who hasn't seen a teenager in twenty years.
The Materials Matter More Than the Brand
Let’s talk about sustainability for a second because it’s actually relevant here. A lot of cheap fast-fashion suits are made from low-grade polyester that loses its shape after three wears in chlorine. If you’re spending your own hard-earned money (or your parents'), look for "Econyl" or recycled nylon.
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- Chlorine Resistance: If you’re a pool person, look for PBT or Xtra Life Lycra.
- UPF 50+: Yeah, it sounds like something your mom would say, but getting a sunburn through your suit is a real thing.
- Double Lining: If the suit isn't lined, it's going to be see-through the second it hits water. Always check the "hand feel." If it feels like a t-shirt, put it back.
Brands like Frankies Bikinis are huge on social media, but they can be pricey. If you're looking for that look without the $150 price tag, places like Cotton On or even the "Wild Fable" line at Target often have similar silhouettes. Just check the seams. A good suit has reinforced stitching. A bad one starts unraveling the moment you stretch it.
Dealing with Body Confidence at Sixteen
It's tough. We’re all staring at edited photos all day.
When you’re looking for a two-piece, the "perfect" suit is the one you aren't constantly thinking about while you're wearing it. If you're tugging at the bottoms or worried about the top slipping, you aren't having fun.
Confidence comes from comfort.
If you like your shoulders, get a racerback. If you want to highlight your waist, go for the high-cut leg. There’s no "right" way to look in a bikini. It’s literally just fabric on your body.
Where to Actually Shop
If you're tired of the same three stores at the local mall, here’s where the actual variety is:
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- Aerie: Still the king of the "natural" look. Their "Offline" collection is solid for active days.
- PacSun: They carry brands like LA Hearts and Billabong, which have that classic California surf vibe.
- Cider: Great for trendy, weird patterns that you won't see everyone else wearing at the beach.
- Amazon (The "Zaful" Era): Hit or miss, but good for trying out a trend (like a one-shoulder top) before committing real money to it.
The Trend Forecast for This Summer
Expect to see a lot of "coconut girl" aesthetics—think hibiscus prints and bright blues. Also, the "longline" bikini top is making a huge comeback. It looks almost like a sports bra but in swimsuit material. It’s a great middle ground for someone who wants a two-piece but wants a bit more coverage than a traditional bra-style top.
Earth tones are also sticking around. Moss green, terracotta, and chocolate brown look amazing against a summer tan and feel a bit more "grown up" than neon pink.
Taking Care of the Suit
Rinse it. Seriously.
Saltwater and chlorine eat elastic for breakfast. If you just toss your wet suit in a heap on your bedroom floor, it’ll be stretched out by July. Rinse it in cold water, squeeze (don't wring!), and lay it flat in the shade. Never, ever put your swimsuit in the dryer. The heat kills the spandex fibers, and that's how you get that weird "crunchy" feeling or the dreaded saggy bottom.
Next Steps for Your Swimwear Hunt
First, grab a flexible measuring tape and actually measure your bust and hips. Don't guess. Size charts vary wildly between brands like H&M and Roxy. Once you have your numbers, look for retailers that offer "mix and match" separates so you can get the right fit for your specific shape.
Focus on finding one "active" suit for the beach or lake and one "chill" suit for tanning or hanging out. That way, you're covered for whatever the summer throws at you. Most importantly, ignore the "size" on the tag—if it feels good and stays put when you jump, it’s the right one.
Check the return policy before you click buy. Most places are strict about the hygiene liner being intact, so make sure you try things on over your underwear first. Happy hunting. Summer is short; don't spend it worrying about your straps.