String Bikinis: Ultra-Thin Straps for Minimal Tan Lines
String bikinis are defined by their ultra-thin elastic ties — narrow straps at the shoulders, hips, and back that maximize skin exposure and minimize tan lines. At Oh Lola, our string bikinis pair those signature thin ties with Brazilian-cut bottoms and adjustable tops, giving you a fully customizable fit whether you're lounging by a pool, walking the beach, or on a boat. Every piece uses swim-grade fabrics with reinforced seams where the strings meet the fabric — the point of highest stress on a string bikini and where lesser brands fail.
Shop String Bikinis by Style
Find the string cut that matches your trip:
- String triangle tops: classic triangle cups with thin ties at neck and back — the most versatile style.
- String bandeau & halter: strap-free or single-strap tops with tie closures for zero shoulder tan lines.
- Brazilian string bottoms: narrow rear cuts with tie-side closures — our signature look.
- G-string & V-front bottoms: the smallest coverage in the collection, in string-tie constructions.
- String scrunch: gathered rear fabric with side-tie adjustability, for a fuller silhouette without losing the string cut.
String + Micro + Sheer: Where the Categories Overlap
Most of our string bikinis are also micro bikinis — narrow ties and minimal coverage go together naturally. Many sheer bikinis also use string constructions. If you're browsing by coverage rather than by tie style, our Micro Bikinis collection covers the same design DNA. For see-through fabrics with string closures, see our Sheer Bikinis and read our guide to thong, string, Brazilian and scrunch styles.
How to Choose Your String Bikini Size
Oh Lola sizing runs true-to-Brazilian, which is roughly one size smaller than standard US sizing. String bikinis are more adjustable than fixed-strap styles — the side, back, and shoulder ties let you fine-tune the fit within a range. If you're between sizes, size down for a more minimal look or size up for fuller coverage. Adjustable ties will bridge the difference. See our Size Chart for bust, underbust, waist, and hip measurements, and our Return Policy for exchanges.
FAQs About String Bikinis
What is a string bikini?
A string bikini is a swimsuit where the top and bottom are held together with thin elastic ties — narrow straps at the shoulders, neck, hips, and back — rather than fixed bands or elastic panels. String construction maximizes skin exposure and minimizes tan lines, and the ties allow the wearer to adjust the fit precisely. String bikinis are usually paired with minimal-coverage cuts like Brazilian, thong, or micro styles.
What's the difference between a string bikini and a micro bikini?
They're related but not identical. "Micro" describes overall coverage (very small). "String" describes the closure system (thin ties instead of fixed bands). Most micro bikinis use string construction, and most string bikinis are also micro-cut — but you can have a string top with normal-coverage triangle cups, or a micro bikini with fixed straps instead of ties.
Are Oh Lola string bikinis good for tanning?
Yes — string bikinis are among the best swimwear styles for even tanning. Thin ties leave minimal marks compared to wide straps, and the small fabric footprint of Brazilian and thong bottoms reduces the rear tan line significantly. For the cleanest tan, choose a triangle-string top over a bandeau, and pair with a Brazilian or thong bottom.
Do the strings stay secure during swimming?
Yes, when tied properly. Our string bikinis use flexible high-tension elastic that grips consistently, plus reinforced seams at the tie anchor points (the spot where lesser brands fail). Double-knot the side ties for active swimming; a single bow is fine for lounging. For strong waves or diving, choose a triangle top over a bandeau for the most secure fit.
How do I choose the right string bikini size?
Use our Size Chart. String bikinis are more forgiving on size than fixed-strap styles because the ties adjust — if you're between sizes, size down for a more minimal look or up for fuller coverage. Cup size on triangle tops is the main measurement to check; bottom sizes follow standard Oh Lola Brazilian sizing (roughly one size smaller than standard US).
Can I mix and match string bikini tops and bottoms?
Yes. Most Oh Lola string bikinis are sold as sets but tops and bottoms are also available separately. Mix cup sizes, colors, and prints across sets — string tops in one solid color paired with a printed Brazilian bottom is one of our most-worn combinations. For coordinating pieces across our full range, see our full collection.
How do I care for a string bikini?
Rinse in cold water after wearing — especially after sun, sand, sunscreen, chlorine, or salt water. Hand wash with mild detergent, never machine wash. Untie the strings before washing so they don't tangle or ladder. Air dry flat, away from direct sun. When storing, keep string bikinis loose in a drawer rather than folded — the ties can crease permanently if pressed flat under weight.
Where are string bikinis appropriate to wear?
String bikinis are welcome at most resorts, private pools, adult-only beaches, and clothing-optional venues. Public family beaches in some US and European regions have stricter standards — especially for Brazilian, thong, and G-string bottoms — so check local guidelines if unsure. String bikinis are especially popular for photoshoots, resort travel, boat days, and pool clubs.
How fast is shipping?
Delivery time depends on destination. For the most up-to-date processing and transit estimates, see Orders & Shipping. You'll receive tracking once the courier picks up your parcel.
More about Oh Lola string bikinis
Why Oh Lola String Bikinis
Founded by Zhandra Mattioli, Oh Lola designs Brazilian-inspired string bikinis with a focus on the two places that matter most: the reinforced tie anchors (where cheap string bikinis fail after two washes), and the cut of the fabric panels (where the actual flattering fit lives). Every string piece is made with swim-grade stretch fabric and finished by hand.
How to Style Your String Bikini
For pool and resort lounging, pair a string triangle top with a Brazilian-cut bottom for the cleanest tan lines. Layer a sheer sarong, mesh dress, or lightweight kimono on the walk to and from the water. Body chains, layered necklaces, and delicate anklets work well with the minimalist string aesthetic. For boat and yacht days, choose double-knotted side ties over single bows. Skip heavy accessories that could snag on the ties.
Fabrics & Construction
Our string bikinis use chlorine-resistant, quick-drying swim fabrics with high-tension elastic in the ties. The failure point on most string bikinis is the seam where the tie meets the fabric — we reinforce these with double-stitched construction. For fabric notes and sustainability practices, see our Eco-Friendly Bikinis page.
Resort & Travel Inspiration
String bikinis pack down small — a full 4-piece capsule fits in a mesh laundry bag no bigger than your fist. They're the swimwear category most travelers actually pack in surplus. See real styling references in our try-on hauls & photoshoots archive, and destination ideas in our resort travel coverage.