We’ve rounded up the best options for different categories, depending on your shape and style:

1. Best overall: Kya Swim Coco-Camilia bikini

This bikini keeps its shape despite countless wears and washes. Not to mention, it’s also reversible, and since you can mix and match which side you wear the top and bottom on, it’s basically four different bikinis in one – a great feature if you’re trying to pack light for a holiday.

The Coco Top offers plenty of coverage for big-busted ladies while the cross-front straps lend some subtle lift. The high-waisted bottom, meanwhile, boasts a thick waistband for some added shaping and support.

2. Best budget: Quince Italian V-neck top & high-leg bottom

With this Quince bikini, though, you can stay within your budget without having to compromise on quality. It’s made with materials that are fade and snag-resistant, and they’re 78 to 90 per cent recycled and free of toxic PFAs.

Both the universally flattering top and bottom are compressive enough to offer some structure and support. Nipple coverage isn’t an issue, either, since the bikini top cups are fully lined with removable cups. High-leg bottoms like this are definitely in right now, and it’s not hard to see why. They’re worn high on the hips, visually elongating your legs while accentuating a smaller part of your waist.

3. Best convertible: Dippin’ Daisy’s Amalfi top and Nocturnal bottom

The women-founded company Dippin’ Daisy’s separates come in the same colours and patterns, so it’s easy to mix and match the tops and bottoms – and it doesn’t get any more versatile than this bikini top.

The Amalfi top can be worn three different ways: tied in the middle for a bandeau, criss-crossed in the front for a halter-esque look, or tied with the straps in the back for a classic scoop neck style. While there are a number of bottoms that pair well with it, the mid-rise Nocturnal bottom, which features a flirty high-cut leg and flattering V-shape waistline, seems to be the perfect match.

4. Best for large busts: Cuup’s The Balconette and high-waist bottom

The best swimsuits for large busts tend to have underwire, which provides extra support and shape – not to mention peace of mind that you’re less likely to have a peek-a-boob situation while splashing around in the waves. It’s also a good idea to seek out bikini tops that come in bra sizes rather than the standard XS-XXL sizing to ensure adequate coverage.

This bikini from Cuup covers both bases, with a flexible yet sturdy underwire top that gently lifts and separates without any uncomfortable poking or prodding, and size options that range from 30A to 44H. Also worth mentioning? The ultra-comfortable straps are thick enough that they won’t dig into your shoulders – and since they’re adjustable, you’re bound to get a flawless fit.

Like the top, the retro-inspired bottom is chlorine, sunscreen and salt water-resistant, providing UPF 50 protection. Plus, it retains its fade-proof and curve-flattering shape over time.

5. Best active: Andie Maui top and bikini bottom

Paige DiFiore from Business Insider said of this bikini: “Unlike most string tops, the weight of your chest is held up at your shoulders instead of your neck, so it feels like a cosy bra. I’d wear this supportive, comfortable swimsuit for activities like visiting a water park, surfing or attending a family function because it feels secure and sensible.”

6. Best on Amazon: Shekini Triangle bikini set

It can take a little trial and error to find the best swimsuits on Amazon, but every once in a while, you stumble across a winner like this one that’s budget-friendly and won’t go out of style. The advantage to a triangle top like this is that you can adjust the width and distance of the cups to accommodate your unique bust shape and size. The low-rise bottom can also be tightened or loosened as necessary, which is helpful since this bikini only comes in XS-XXL sizing.

7. Best high-waisted: Left on Friday Pool Days top and Hi-Tide bottom

It’s a no-brainer to call this the best high-waisted bikini: it’s fade and snag-resistant, machine washable and quick-drying. In addition, it comes in 28 colours and accommodates all body types. The scoop front top is snug and compressive while still feeling like a comfy bralette, and the bottoms give ample bum coverage while still letting you show off a hint of cheek.

Something to note: If you’re concerned about your headlights showing, consider popping on a pair of nipple covers since the lightweight top doesn’t have any padding or removable cups.

8. Best plus size: Skims Signature Swim Plunge bikini top and mid-waist bottom

Another thing to love about Skims is that the line is size-inclusive – and this bikini is no exception: it’s available in sizes XXS-4X. To boot, it’s made with 76 per cent recycled nylon.

9. Best with underwire: Vineyard Vines underwire bikini top and high-rise bikini bottom

Fellow full-busted gals will appreciate that both the straps and band are adjustable. There’s subtle ruching on the cups, eye-catching gold accent beads and hardware, and an adjustable drawstring to customise the coverage. You can untie the bow in the front and wrap the ties around your neck for a totally different look.

The high-rise bikini bottom is ideal if you like a bit more coverage around the hips, bum and stomach – and like the top, it offers UPF 50 sun protection.

10. Best bandeau: Shade & Shore jacquard bandeau underwire knot detail bikini top and medium coverage bikini bottom

Bandeau bikinis don’t exactly have a reputation for being supportive – but this one stands out due to the moulded cups with removable padding, underwired cups, side boning and adjustable band. It also comes in bra sizes, which is helpful for achieving a better fit, particularly if you have a small band size and large cup size or vice versa. And since it comes with removable straps, you don’t even have to wear this as a bandeau if you’re looking for a little extra lift. Of course, the cute knot detailing and luxe gold clasp don’t hurt, either.

In case you hadn’t noticed, 1990s trends are back with a vengeance – including low-rise bikini bottoms. This bottom fits the bill and boasts the same thick, opaque material as the top for maximum coverage. The highlight, though, may be the unique ribbed texture, which adds some visual interest to an otherwise simple, solid set.

11. Most trendy: Lulus’ Wave Maker black and white underwire bikini top and Parker black and white high-waisted bikini bottom

This bikini combines two current swimwear trends: 1990s minimalism and bold contrast binding. Plus, thanks to the neutral colour palette, it’s versatile enough to mix and match with any other black and white tops and bottoms you have.

Aside from the head-turning colour-block effect of this top, other notable features are the supportive underwire cups with removable padding and adjustable straps. The tie-back band also allows you to customise the fit to your needs – which is pretty important given that the band provides the vast majority of the support in any swim top.

As for the bottom, the high-cut silhouette and cheeky coverage flatters any and every figure. Note that the top runs a tad small – so choose based on your cup size and if you’re in between sizes, opt for the size up.

12. Best printed: Bydee Cabo top and Cyprus bottom

Bydee is a women-founded, sustainability-minded brand that produces its swimwear from regenerated and recycled materials, and has partnered with ethical manufacturers to receive all shipments plastic-free. All orders are shipped in 100 per cent biodegradable and compostable bags.

This particular bikini is constructed with Italian double-lined fabric, and features a stunning ocean-toned print inspired by the founder’s Greek heritage. What makes the top well worth the investment are a number of thoughtful features, like contrast binding, delicate cotton ruffle trim, adjustable straps that can be converted to a cross back, an adjustable hook and eye back closure, and a thick underbust band. And the flirty, skin-baring bottom can be pulled narrower or wider depending on your coverage preferences.

But what makes this set really special is that no two pieces are the same, given the nature of the brand’s unique prints.