Best Swimwear Styles for Tanning (Minimal Tan Lines)

Let’s be honest, nothing ruins a sun-kissed glow quite like awkward tan lines. You spend hours relaxing under the sun, only to discover crisscrossing straps or patchy marks that weren’t part of your plan. Whether you’re prepping for an upcoming vacation, looking for the perfect honeymoon swimwear, or just craving that smooth, even tan, finding the right swimwear to avoid those pesky lines can feel like an impossible task.

But don't fret, the perfect tanning-friendly swimsuit does exist. In this guide, we’ll explore the best bikini styles for minimal tan lines, helping you choose pieces that not only flatter your body but let your skin glow naturally. From strapless bandeaus to sleek thong bottoms, you’ll discover stylish solutions to make your next beach day your most radiant yet.

Some swimwear styles are stunning, but when it comes to tanning, they’re more of a challenge. Before you shop, it’s worth knowing which suits might leave you with those stubborn, unwanted lines.

Classic one-piece swimsuits are beloved for their elegant, sculpted fit, but when you’re working on your tan, they’re not always your best friend.

• Full-coverage styles tend to block large areas of your torso, creating harsh tan lines along the shoulders and hips.

• Straps, seams, and high necklines contribute to those tell-tale swimsuit marks.

If you love the simplicity of a one-piece, save it for overcast days or shaded lounging.

Cutouts? Absolutely stylish and sexy, but they’re also a recipe for unpredictable tan patterns.

• Intricate cutouts create uneven exposure, leading to irregular, patchy tan lines.

• Designs that seem sleek in shade might surprise you when you peel off your suit post-beach day.

Keep cutout swimsuits for after-hours pool parties, when the sun isn’t stealing your moment.

A high-neck bikini gives you sporty, chic vibes, but can leave you with bold tan lines right around your neck and collarbone.

• The high neckline interrupts your chest area, leaving a clear, unflattering line.

• These styles are best reserved for active days when sunbathing isn’t your priority.

Now for the good news: certain bikini tops are practically designed to help you tan better. Ready to shop smarter?

Bandeau bikinis are the gold standard for minimal tan lines —hello, strap-free glow! 

• The lack of straps gives you a smoother tan, while the sculpted fit keeps everything comfortably in place as you move.

• Got for soft, stretchy fabrics, which offer secure support without compromising comfort.

For an elevated option, consider the So Chic Bandeau Bikini Top in Rum. Crafted in a warm brown hue that flatters sun-kissed skin, this bandeau top features a luxe gold ring at the center for a touch of glamour. It’s a minimalist essential with a bold twist, perfect for lounging poolside or catching rays on the sand.

When you still want some support without heavy straps, halter neck bikinis strike the balance.

• A tie-around-the-neck design keeps shoulders bare and reduces traditional tan lines.

• Choose slim, adjustable ties for even less interruption while you soak up the sun.

• The adjustable coverage means you control how much skin you show, perfect for balancing tan goals with comfort.

Gooseberry Intimates' So Chic Halterneck Triangle Bikini Top in Soleil offers all the versatility you need for your next beach day. Designed with a timeless triangle cut, gold ring accents, and ties at both the neck and back, this double-lined top lets you customize the fit and the look. Whether worn classic or crossed in front for a fresh twist, it’s a must-have for stylish, sun-drenched days.

For the minimalist at heart, triangle bikinis with slim strings are a smart option.

• Thin straps can be loosened, slid, or adjusted as needed, helping you manage where your tan lines fall.

The So Chic Triangle Bikini Top in White from Gooseberry Intimates delivers exactly that. Featuring gold hardware details and premium double-lined fabric, this top blends delicate aesthetics with day-long comfort. Adjustable straps ensure your fit feels personalized, while the classic triangle shape flatters every curve.

Choosing the right bikini top is only half the battle. If you’re dreaming of a smooth, even tan from top to bottom, your bikini bottoms matter just as much.

High-cut styles do more than just elongate your legs—they also minimize tan lines.

• By sitting higher on your hips, these bottoms leave more skin exposed to the sun.

• A flattering, comfortable fit means you can lounge without constantly adjusting.

Look for sleek, minimal seams and double-lined fabric that hugs your body gently while letting the sun do its thing.

If your goal is the least amount of lines possible, seamless or thong bikini bottoms are your best friend.

• Thong bikinis offer minimal coverage, ensuring almost no tan lines on your hips or lower back.

• Seamless edges help avoid harsh indentations and create a smooth tanning experience.

These styles are perfect for confident tanning. They're comfortable, daring, and fuss-free.

Gooseberry Intimates' So Chic Thong Bikini in Cassis is a standout choice. This Brazilian-cut brief combines a mid-rise fit with minimal back coverage, giving you the freedom to tan confidently while showcasing your curves. Double-lined for comfort yet unapologetically bold, this piece is made for women who want their beachwear as sleek as their tan lines.

String ties or side tie bikini bottoms aren’t just cute, they’re practical for tanning too.

• String bikinis have thin, adjustable ties that let you customize your fit and shift your straps as needed to reduce tan lines.

• The side-tie design exposes more skin along the hips, leaving fewer marks behind after a day in the sun.

• Quick tip: Adjust the side ties as you tan to switch up the strap placement and avoid any harsh tan line buildup.

For a flirty, versatile option, the So Chic Side-Tie Bikini Briefs in White are perfect. These cheeky bottoms feature adjustable side ties and just enough coverage to keep things playful while minimizing tan lines across the hips. The gold ring details and double-lined fabric add that signature Gooseberry touch.

Somewhere between thong and cheeky, Brazilian cut bottoms hit the sweet spot.

• These styles offer slightly more coverage than a thong without sacrificing that minimal tan-line effect.

• The flattering cut accentuates your curves while keeping lines minimal and chic.

They’re especially perfect for lounging in tropical locations or sun-drenched weekends by the pool.

While minimizing tan lines is key, your swimwear still needs to work for your body and your plans.

It’s not all about minimal coverage—you’ll want styles that support you too.

• Look for bandeau tops with internal support or halter bikinis with adjustable ties.

• If you’re bustier, structured triangle tops (like those from Gooseberry) offer both shape and hold.

Because feeling good is just as important as looking good.

Nothing disrupts a tanning session like an ill-fitting suit.

• Opt for adjustable features: sliding straps, tie-sides, and flexible fabric make finding the perfect fit much easier.

• Avoid anything too tight, which could dig in and create harsh marks, or too loose, which won’t stay in place.

Swimwear that moves with your body allows you to tan in total comfort.

Think about how you plan to spend your day in the sun:

• Lounging poolside? Go strapless with a bandeau.

• Planning for paddleboarding or beach volleyball? Choose triangle bikinis or halters with slim straps for balance between security and minimal tan lines.

Whether you're soaking up rays or playing in the waves, there’s a style that suits your lifestyle.

Tanning doesn’t have to come with sacrifices. With the right swimwear, you can enjoy smooth, golden skin without the battle of odd lines and strap marks.

At Gooseberry Intimates, we design swimwear that’s as practical as it is beautiful. From the strap-free ease of our bandeau bikinis to the barely-there elegance of our thong bikini bottoms, every piece is crafted for confident tanning and effortless style.

So whether you're chasing rays on a secluded beach or lounging poolside, shop Gooseberry for swimwear that lets your skin glow as beautifully as you feel.