A well-placed cutout can do more than show a little skin. It can create the illusion of a higher waist, define your shape, add drama to a simple black one-piece, or turn a classic bikini into the look everyone notices by the pool. This season's cutout swimsuit trends are less about wearing the tiniest suit possible and more about choosing striking details that feel flattering, wearable, and completely your style.
Why Cutout Swimsuits Keep Having a Moment
Cutout swimwear has staying power because it gives you options. A bikini can feel fresh with a side cutout or a center ring detail, while a one-piece can deliver the coverage and support you want with a bolder, fashion-forward finish. The effect is confident without requiring a head-to-toe statement print or an overly complicated silhouette.
The best styles balance exposure with structure. Think stretchy fabric that holds its shape, adjustable ties that help you personalize the fit, and strategic seams that keep everything where it belongs. When those practical details are right, cutouts feel less like a special-occasion swimsuit and more like a favorite you will pack for every warm-weather plan.
There is also a cutout for nearly every mood. Minimalists can choose one clean waist opening in a solid color. Maximalists can go for strappy fronts, crisscross sides, metallic hardware, or a high-cut leg paired with unexpected negative space. Whether your plans involve a beach weekend, resort photos, a rooftop pool, or a long afternoon on the sand, the right design makes a splash without sacrificing comfort.
The Cutout Swimsuit Trends to Watch
Side Cutouts That Shape the Waist
Side cutouts are one of the most flattering ways to wear the trend. On one-pieces, open panels at the waist can create a curvier, more defined silhouette, especially when paired with a high-rise leg. They give a classic suit an instant upgrade while still offering coverage through the bust and back.
For a softer take, look for curved side openings instead of sharp geometric shapes. Curved cutouts tend to follow the body naturally and feel easier to wear for a full day. A black, chocolate brown, deep red, or ocean blue one-piece with side cutouts has a polished, luxury-inspired look that works beautifully with oversized sunglasses and a breezy cover-up.
Front Keyholes and Center Details
Front keyholes are having a major comeback, and they are far more versatile than they sound. A small keyhole under the bust adds a subtle hint of skin, while a larger center cutout brings more attention to the neckline. The difference comes down to placement, support, and how much coverage makes you feel your best.
Hardware is part of the story here. O-rings, tortoise-inspired links, shell-inspired accents, and simple gold-tone details can make a solid swimsuit feel elevated. If you want the detail to stay the focus, keep the rest of your beach look clean: a sheer sarong, slide sandals, and a simple tote are all you need.
Asymmetrical One-Pieces
A one-shoulder swimsuit with a waist cutout is the kind of piece that looks instantly styled, even before you add accessories. Asymmetry draws the eye upward and creates a strong line across the body, making it a standout choice for anyone who wants a sleek, modern swimsuit.
This is also one of the easiest cutout swimsuit trends to take from poolside to lunch. Choose a one-piece with secure straps and comfortable lining, then wear it with wide-leg linen pants or relaxed denim shorts. It reads more like a bodysuit than traditional swimwear, which means you get more outfit potential from one great piece.
Strappy Bikinis With Adjustable Energy
Strappy cutout bikinis bring the playful side of the trend. Think bikini tops with wraparound strings, bottoms with double side straps, or crisscross details that frame the hips. They can look daring, but adjustability makes a big difference. Ties and movable straps let you decide how high, snug, or revealing the fit feels.
The trade-off is tan lines. More straps mean more lines after a sunny day, so this style may not be your first pick if you are trying to keep your tan even. But for a pool party, a resort day, or a vacation photo moment, the impact is hard to beat.
High-Cut Legs With Strategic Openings
High-cut swimwear and cutouts are a natural pair. A higher leg opening visually lengthens the legs, while a small waist or hip cutout adds extra definition. This combination can work on bikinis and one-pieces alike, and it is especially effective in solid colors, color-block designs, and retro-inspired prints.
The key is finding a leg height that feels good when you move. A very high cut can be glamorous and flattering, but it may not be ideal for surfing, swimming laps, or chasing kids around the shore. If activity is on the agenda, choose a suit with a secure seat, wider straps, and a cutout that stays away from areas likely to shift.
How to Choose a Cutout That Feels Like You
Start with the area you want to highlight. A shoulder cutout draws attention to the neckline and collarbone. Side cutouts emphasize the waist. A center-front opening puts the focus on the bust, while hip cutouts create a bolder, lengthened-leg effect. There is no single most flattering option because fit, preference, and your plans all matter.
Next, think about support. If you need more hold through the bust, look for underwire, molded cups, removable padding, thicker straps, or a shelf-bra construction. Halter and triangle shapes can be gorgeous, but adjustable straps are especially helpful for getting the lift and security you want. For smaller busts, a center cutout or wrap-style top can add shape without needing heavy structure.
Fabric matters, too. A smooth, stretchy lycra blend is a reliable choice for everyday beach and pool wear. Neoprene-inspired fabric can offer a more sculpted look and a sporty edge, though it may feel warmer in intense sun. Lined suits generally feel more comfortable and can help a cutout design sit neatly against the body instead of rolling or gaping.
Before committing, do a quick movement check at home. Raise your arms, sit down, bend, and twist. A fashion swimsuit should still let you enjoy the day. If straps dig in, the cutout pulls oddly, or you find yourself constantly adjusting, size up, try a different cut, or choose a style with more adjustable features.
Styling Cutout Swimwear Without Overdoing It
Cutouts already bring the statement, so styling works best when it feels intentional rather than crowded. A solid-color swimsuit can handle bolder accessories such as large hoops, a raffia hat, or a bright beach bag. A strappy or hardware-heavy suit usually looks best with simpler finishing touches.
Cover-ups can change the entire vibe. A sheer mesh dress keeps the look glamorous and lets the swimsuit show through. A button-down shirt adds relaxed coastal energy, while a wrap skirt or sarong gives you easy coverage for walking from the beach to a café. For a sporty one-piece, try loose shorts and sneakers for a casual, active beach-day outfit.
Color can make a cutout feel either dramatic or understated. Black, espresso, navy, and white keep the silhouette polished. Hot pink, lime, bright coral, and electric blue make the design feel playful and photo-ready. If you love prints, choose one with enough open space around the cutout so the shape does not get lost.
Make the Trend Work for Your Beach Plans
The most stylish swimsuit is the one you actually feel excited to wear. Cutout swimwear can be bold, sleek, sporty, romantic, or retro depending on the silhouette, color, and details you choose. You do not need to follow every trend at once. One perfect cutout, a secure fit, and a little attitude are more than enough to turn a simple swim day into your main-character moment.