The Best Designer Bikinis Under £100

Let me be honest with you: I have spent an embarrassing amount of money on swimwear over the years. Tiny scraps of fabric that cost more than a decent winter coat. And while some of those pieces were absolutely worth every penny, I have also learned that price and quality do not always move in the same direction. Some of the most-worn bikinis in my drawer cost less than a round of cocktails in Ibiza.

So I set myself a challenge. Could I put together an edit of genuinely desirable, well-made designer bikinis -- all under the £100 mark? Turns out, yes. Easily.

L*SPACE: The Undisputed Queen of Affordable Luxury

If you have not discovered L*SPACE yet, you are genuinely missing out. This California-born label consistently delivers bikinis that look and feel far more expensive than they are. The Hazel top in Brown Sugar is one of those pieces that just works on everyone -- the underwire gives real support without feeling structured, and the warm tone is universally flattering. At £78, it is a steal.

Then there is the Tyla top in Espresso, which has become something of a cult favourite this season. The strap detailing is delicate without being fussy, and the coverage hits that sweet spot between minimal and modest. At £84, you are getting a bikini top that photographs beautifully, holds up in the sea, and does not stretch out after three wears. That last point matters more than most brands want to admit.

The Mako top at £94 is about as sleek as swimwear gets. Clean lines, modern silhouette, nothing unnecessary. If you prefer your bikinis to whisper rather than shout, this is your piece. And the Tulip top in Sail Along Stripe brings a nautical charm that feels fresh rather than dated -- at £99 it just scrapes under the budget but earns its place comfortably.

Monday Swimwear: Relaxed, Flattering, Dependable

Monday Swimwear built its reputation on one thing: making women feel genuinely good in swimwear. Not self-conscious, not like they are wearing a costume, but actually comfortable and confident. Their pieces tend to run slightly more generous in cut, which means less adjusting and more actually enjoying your holiday.

Their triangle bikinis in particular are worth investigating if you are after something simple and elegant. The fabrics feel substantial -- not that flimsy, see-through-when-wet situation that plagues cheaper brands -- and the colour palette leans into rich, earthy tones that suit plenty of skin tones. Several of their tops and bottoms come in well under £100, especially during their seasonal drops.

The Bottom Line

Designer swimwear under £100 is not about compromising. It is about knowing where to look. L*SPACE and Monday Swimwear both prove that thoughtful design, quality fabric, and genuinely flattering cuts do not have to come with a price tag that makes you wince. My advice? Pick one top, one bottom, and actually wear them. The best bikini is the one that makes you want to take your cover-up off, not keep it firmly wrapped around your waist.