12 Best High-Waisted Swim Shorts, According To A Couture Designer – 2024
Look extra-fabulous every season with must-have fashionable beach clothing.
Mette Baillie is a couture designer with 24 years of experience. She has her own couture company, Freja DesignerDressmaking, in Edinburgh and specializes in making everything from tweed suits to slinky evening dresses and highly structured wedding dresses.
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Experience: 3 yearsSrijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant.
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Experience: 3 yearsRajeshwari is a dedicated fitness and lifestyle enthusiast, deeply committed to enhancing our readers’ well-being and vitality. She has a master’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communication from the University of Calcutta.
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Experience: 2 yearsSrijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in English and Literature from the University of Calcutta, she has honed her writing skills and developed an in-depth understanding of the beauty and fashion world.
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Remember the yesteryear Hollywood actresses posing in their high-waisted bathing suit bottoms? Well, it’s time to bring back that look because retro is the new trend. Give some rest to your one-piece suit and add a spicy twist to your swimwear collection with the best high-waisted swim shorts. They pass stylistic evaluation as they offer the glamor of a two-piece suit along with just enough coverage. High-waisted swim shorts tuck in the extra-flab, have a slimming effect, and flatter your body shape, be it an hourglass, pear-shape, or a boxy figure. The vibrant colors and fun prints make them irresistible and a must-have in your summer wardrobe.
Ever since they made a comeback into the swimsuit industry, many brands have been promoting many different swim short styles and choosing the perfect one becomes challenging. For your convenience, we have rounded up the 12 best high-waisted swim shorts from trusted brands that will make your summer enjoyable.
In This Article
12 Best High-Waisted Swim Shorts You Can Buy In 2024
1. Best Overall: SHAPERMINT Women Ruched High Waisted Bikini Bottom
For those who want to radiate exceptional confidence, the SHAPERMINT Women Ruched High Waisted Bikini Bottom Swimsuit is a perfect choice. It is made of 82% nylon and 18% spandex. You can find the right fit for yourself from a wide range of small to 4X large sizes. The ruching front detail along with the high-waisted front tummy shaping panel provides optimum coverage to your belly. The fabric accentuates your silhouette while supporting your movements. The rear design of this bottom covers your butt area so you can sit and bend comfortably without revealing your butt cheeks. This swim bottom from the tried and tested brand is double-lined and is non-see-through, so you can find the joy of comfortable fitting like no other.
Pros
- Stretchable
- True-to-size
- Snug fit
- Machine-washable
Cons
- None
Fun Fact2. Best For Tummy Coverage: GRAPENT Women’s High Waisted Swim Bottom
The GRAPENT Women’s High Waisted Swim Bottom is made of 86% nylon and 14% spandex. It features a comfortable elastic band for smooth pull-on closure. The ruching layered design in this high-waisted bottom covers your belly bulge so that you do not have to hold your breath while enjoying beach activities. Its stylish fitting will make you look no less than a diva. This good-quality high-rise bikini bottom can be paired with solid-colored swim tops. It provides good bum coverage, so you do not have to worry about revealing your buttcheeks while maintaining a youthful, athletic look. With different fits available in multiple categories from extra-small to tripe-extra large there is a perfect pair for everyone.
Pros
- Soft fabric
- Breathable
- Stretchy waistband
- Full coverage
Cons
- Some may find the leg opening too big
3. Best Breathable Fabric: Bonneuitbebe Women’s Swim Shorts
Bonneuitbebe Women’s Swim Shorts are highly breathable, skin-friendly, quick-drying, and UV-protective. They have an elastic closure system for a better fit and also offer moderate coverage. Their stretchable, high waistband covers your tummy, elongates your legs and torso, making you look slimmer. These elastic shorts offer a great shape and a comfortable fit. Their silky-smooth material with tight-fitting design assures ease of movement. These can be matched with all kinds of bikini, tankini, sports, and yoga tops and are ideal for swimming, water sports, surfing, beachwear, and hot springs. According to reviewers, the shorts provide good coverage and are comfortable.
Pros
- Breathable
- Quick-drying
- Skin-friendly
- Versatile
Cons
- None
4. Best Sun Protection: Ekouaer Women’s Swim Shorts
Ekouaer Women’s Swim Shorts is made of a polyester and spandex blend which is soft and breathable. These high-waisted shorts come with an adjustable drawstring closure system and provide a flattering curvy shape to your body. They also offer tummy control and do not ride up. These high-waisted bottoms with UPF protection have a wide waistband that allows for a comfortable fit. These lightweight and durable shorts are ideal to keep you safe from the harmful UV rays of the sun when you are swimming, surfing, canoeing, biking, running, or are just outdoors. The high-quality fabric and the exquisite stitching make them a favorite amongst women of all ages. Pair these with your bikini or tankini top, and you are good to hit the beach or the pool.
Pros
- Quick-drying
- Breathable
- Non-see-through
- Extra coverage
- Sun protection
- Well-stitched
Cons
- None
5. Best Coverage: Holipick Women High Waisted Swim Shorts
Holipick Women High Waisted Swim Shorts are long and non-see-through with an in-built brief to ensure security and comfort. They are made of 82% nylon and 18% spandex. These high-waisted swim shorts provide tummy control, accentuate your curves, and help hide your belly, thereby making you look slim and chic. The fabric is highly elastic and has a fully lined bottom, offering complete coverage. The comfortable swimsuit shorts are made of premium quality soft, breathable, quick-drying material. They have an elastic waistband for easy wearability. These modest shorts are perfect for swimming, surfing, beach sports, yoga, running, and fitness activities and are available from XS to XXL size.
Pros
- Full coverage
- Elastic closure system
- Does not ride up
- In-built underwear
- Breathable
- Quick-drying
- Non-see-through
Cons
- In-built underwear lining visible
6. Best With Pocket: CRZ YOGA Womens Swim Shorts
The CRZ YOGA Womens Swim Shorts is made of 78% polyamide and 22% elastane. The 4-way stretchable fabric of the bottom dries quickly and keeps your skin cool all day long. The 4-inch inseam gives it a perfect high-waisted bottom and its adjustable drawstring offers you a snug fit. The stretched, square-leg cut extends additional coverage and reduces any friction during movement. The bottom also features a zipper pocket on its right side where you can store small essentials and is designed with small slits on both sides. Additionally, the bottom also has a built-in brief liner which imparts optimum coverage and makes you rock the classic style icon look.
Pros
- Built-in briefs lining
- Supportive compression
- Stretchable
- Breathable
- Soft fabric
- Comes with a zipper pocket
Cons
- None
Quick Tip7. Best Casual: Summer Mae Women Swimsuits Bottom Swim Shorts
Be the coolest this season with the stylish Summer Mae Women Swimsuits Bottom Swim Shorts. This high-quality trunk is made of 82% nylon and 18% spandex, while its lining is made of 92% polyester and 8% spandex. The wide waistband of this bottom comes with a drawstring closure that helps you gain your customized fit and offer optimum tummy control. The classic v-slit design on each side keeps your thighs free while you are exercising. This bottom from one of the most favorite swimwear brands has an inbuilt panty that adjusts to your body contours like a glove.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Inbuilt panty
- Double layer lining
- Does not ride-up
- Durable
- Machine-washable
Cons
- None
8. Best Ruffle: Tempt Me Women’s High Waisted Swimsuit Shorts
Tempt Me Women’s High Waisted Swimsuit Shorts are made of 82% nylon and 18% spandex material. Their fabric is thick enough to keep your belly tucked in and also offer good coverage. The high waist bottom along with a flattering ruched panel makes you look slimmer by hiding the belly and is a good addition to your beach wardrobe. The breathable fabric with high elasticity provides comfort and flatters your figure. These swim shorts can be paired with any bikini or tankini top and are perfect for a spring break, pool party, or for a beach vacation. They are available in a wide range of colors and sizes from S to XXL size. This sexy but conservative and modest swimwear gives you confidence and keeps you looking stylish.
Pros
- Full coverage
- Breathable fabric
- Available in multiple sizes
Cons
- See-through-material
9. Best Vintage Look: Tomlyws Women’s High Waist Swim Shorts
Tomlyws Women’s High Waist Swim Shorts are made of nylon and spandex material. These vintage-inspired briefs have ruffles and an elastic closure for a flattering fit. They are sexy, fashionable, and extremely comfortable. They are available from S to 3XL size, go well with any of your swim tops, and are perfect for the beach, pool, or a holiday. They are a good combination of sexy and modesty and are well-liked by women of all age groups.
Pros
- Elastic closure system
- Good coverage
- Comfortable to wear
- Available in multiple sizes
Cons
- No lining in the rear
10. Best Tummy Control: Yilisha Womens Tummy Control Swim Shorts
Yilisha Women’s Tummy Control Swim Shorts are made of premium quality stretch nylon and spandex material. These are quick-drying, elastic, and comfortable, while their UPF 50 sun-protection feature offers protection from UV rays. These boy shorts possess a wide, high waistband that reaches the belly button, offers full coverage, and flattens your tummy area. They come with a 6-inches inseam and in-built briefs for support and comfort for maximum security. You can easily match these with bikini tops, short-sleeve tees, tankini tops, crop tops, or yoga tops.
Pros
- Do not ride up
- Side slit for a sporty look
- Good coverage
- Quick-drying
- UPF sun protection
Cons
- None
11.Best Skin-Friendly: Tournesol Women’s Swim Shorts
The Tournesol Women’s Swim Shorts is designed with quick drying, breathable spandex fabric. It prevents your skin from being damaged by the harmful UVA and UVB rays. It has an adjustable tie design with a skin-friendly inner lining and is perfectly compatible with any body shape. You can wear this pair for any physical activities like swimming, hiking, yoga, pilates, or even for gym workouts. For a flattering look, match them with your favorite bikini or tank tops.
Pros
- Breathable
- Quick-drying
- Sweat-absorbent
- Offers UV protection
- Made of good quality fabric
- Adjustable tie design
Cons
- Might have size issues
12. Best Fit:Mycoco Women’s Super High Waist Swim Shorts
The Mycoco Women’s Super High Waist Swim Shorts are designed with 80% nylon and 20% spandex material. The high-waisted design offers tummy control and the ruched front design looks more elegant. You can wear them for all water sport activities including swimming, paddlesports, diving, kayaking, or for just hanging out on the beach. According to reviews, the product provides good tummy control and fits well.
Pros
- Made of skin-friendly materials
- Breathable
- Comfortable
- Tummy control
- Great fit
Cons
- Limited sizes
Swimming is a great physical activity that keeps your body fit and mind relaxed. Here are the important points to consider before buying the best high-waisted swim shorts.
Things to Consider Before Buying Best High-Waisted Swim Shorts
Fabric:
Go for swim shorts made from premium materials like nylon, spandex, and polyester which are breathable and comfortable to wear for long stretches. The elastic around the waistline must be soft and not cause rashes or uneasiness on your skin. The cloth material should be stretchable enough for various activities such as yoga, swimming, or running. If you are an environmentally conscious consumer then you can look for sustainable materials.
The material should be non-see-through to keep you comfortable if you decide to wear them at pool parties, sports activities, or busy beaches.
Coverage: The swim shorts must offer protection from the harmful UV rays that can cause skin allergies. They should be lightweight and comfortable to wear. The shorts must offer good coverage to your legs, torso, and tummy while making your physique look more sculpted.
Size and fit: One must avoid high-waisted swim shorts that are either too loose or too tight. Buy swim shorts that fit your body type ensuring that they are comfortable and can be carried well. Some people feel comfortable in short swimwear while others may go for the ones that cover the upper thighs. It is important to measure your waist and thighs before buying swim shorts of the right size and fit. The right swimwear should give a slimming effect to your thighs and cover the extra flab for a flatter body shape.
Design: Choose the swim shorts that compliment your body shape. Some people may prefer swimwear with an -built brief while others feel better in snug-fit shorts. In terms of color, go for the one that matches your personality. Many people prefer to wear swim shorts having vibrant colors and designs while some may feel comfortable in traditional colors like black.
Added features: Go for a sweat-wicking and quick-drying material. The fabric should be chlorine resistant which makes it easy to wear in water for a long time. Finally, go for budget-friendly but good-quality swimwear that is suitable for swimming, jogging, gym workouts, and other physical activities.
The Bottom Line
High-waisted swim shorts will become your go-to swimwear if you want to wear a two-piece swimsuit but are self-conscious of that extra flab. The SHAPERMINT Women Ruched High Waisted Bikini Bottom makes for a great choice for those looking for full-coverage bottoms, while the Ekouaer Women’s Swim Shorts comes with sun protection to protect the skin. But, if you are looking for anti-chafing shorts, opt for the CRZ YOGA Womens Swim Shorts. These are sexy, elegant, and modest, and help you tuck your belly in, giving you a flattering and slimmer figure. The bestselling products mentioned above in the list have been selected after thorough fashion analysis and boast unique designs, offer tummy control, and UV protection, and are made of soft, skin-friendly materials. So, when it comes to swimming, surfing, and beach holidays this summer, do not shy away from pairing your bikini and tankini tops with the perfect high-waisted swim shorts!
Frequently Asked Questions
What high-waisted swim shorts are most flattering?
The most flattering high-waisted swim shorts cover the belly-button and are long enough to hide the flab on the thighs. They have a snug fit, an elastic waistband, and an in-built lining that makes them non-transparent. These attributes will help accentuate your curves and flatter your body shape.
Do high-waisted swim shorts look good on everyone?
Yes, they do. Irrespective of your body shape, high-waisted swim shorts will look good on everyone. These shorts flatten and reduce midriff and give you the perfect figure, whether you have an hourglass, pear, or square-shape body.
Are high-waisted swimsuits still in?
High-waisted swimsuits are still in style. They are extremely comfortable and are definitely an effortless statement piece.
What is the difference between swim trunks and swim shorts?
The main difference between swim trunks and swim shorts is the length of the garment. Swim shorts are longer and come down to knee-length as compared to swim trunks which are usually mid-thigh length.
How long should your swim shorts be?
As a general rule, the length of swim shorts should be mid-thigh or 3 inches above the knee at the longest. The inseam should be anywhere from 6 to 8 inches.
Can you wear high-waisted swim shorts casually?
Yes, you can wear high-waisted swim shorts casually if you are comfortable with displaying some skin.
Can you go out in swim shorts?
In theory, yes, you can go out with swim shorts on, especially if you are heading to the gym or going for a more casual occasion such as a picnic or a pool party.
Can I wear compression shorts for swimming?
Yes, you can wear compression shorts under swim trunks while swimming especially if you want to reduce friction and prevent skin irritation. However, keep in mind that the chlorine and salt in water can wear out the material and damage the compression shorts.
How tight should high-waisted swim shorts be?
High-waisted swim shorts should fit well and snugly around the waist without riding up or leaving imprint. Make sure you are able to pinch around ½ to 1 inch on either side of your thighs.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Srijani Roy Chowdhury, the author of this article, is a fashion aficionado who loves to experiment with different fashion trends. She has conducted thorough research and gone through various trusted online forums to research product specifications and online reviews before curating this list of the best high-waisted swim shorts. These shorts are stylish, stretchable, and offer great coverage. They are available in various colors and sizes to choose from.
Read full bio of Mette Baillie
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Read full bio of Rajeshwari Das
Read full bio of Srijita De
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