Farewell to Black Bikinis—Gen Z is drawn to this trendier swimwear style that embodies the essence of 2026.

      A few summers ago, if you had suggested that tankinis would make a comeback in my swimwear collection, I probably would have been skeptical, yet here we are. After years of black bikinis characterized by minimalist, understated luxury taking over beaches and social media, fashion enthusiasts are now reaching for a distinctly nostalgic swimwear trend—the tankini.

      Before you conjure up memories of the tankinis from the early 2000s, it's worth noting that this revival is much more fashion-forward than its earlier versions. The new tankinis are more playful, with textured fabrics, retro prints, and vibrant color combinations that give the style a surprisingly modern twist. Today's tankinis are typically paired with low-rise bikini bottoms, a stark contrast to the more modest mid-2000s styles that focused on as much coverage as possible.

      Interestingly, this revival doesn't stem from the original reasons tankinis gained popularity. In the early 2000s, they were often promoted as an alternative for those reluctant to wear traditional bikinis. The current trend, however, isn't about concealing—it’s about embracing nostalgia.

      Gen Z has already revived a range of styles from capri pants to jelly sandals, so it was only a matter of time before swimwear trends followed suit. For a generation that grew up seeing tankinis everywhere, the style today feels less like "mom at the local pool" and more fun, quirky, and charming.

      Consider this your cue to step away from the black bikini. This summer's tankini trend is vibrant, nostalgic, and surprisingly difficult to resist.

      **Tankinis for the Fashion-Forward**

      **Shop the Best Tankinis**

      *Damson Madder*

      Trudi Tankini Top

      This striped tankini is adorable.

      *Hunza G*

      Nari Crochet Tankini

      This sunny Staud tankini has been stuck in my mind.

      *& Other Stories*

      Square-Neck Tankini Top

      *Goldie Swimwear*

      Sonia Tank Top

      This terry cloth tankini completely embodies a Brazilian summer vibe for obvious reasons!

      *Djerf Avenue*

      Tankini Top Guava

      Djerf Avenue’s size-inclusive tankinis are ideal for anyone seeking a comfortable, dependable choice. The brand offers sizes up to 3X.

      *Djerf Avenue*

      Tankini Top Tangerine

      The orange version is also super cute.

      *& Other Stories*

      Tankini Top in Brown and Blue Stripe

      Can you tell I have a preference for striped tankinis?

      *Fruity Booty*

      Reef Tankini

      I’m obsessed with everything from the London brand Fruity Booty.

      *Dippin Daisys*

      Canela Tankini Top in Luna Verde

      Gen Z embraces more prints!

      *Reclaimed Vintage*

      Tankini Top With Keyhole in Yellow and Brown Polka Dot Print

      Colorful polka dots are a favorite for Gen Z on everything from bags to swimwear, and the tankini trend is no exception.

      *Goldie Swimwear*

      Margo Halter Tank Top

      Emma Arletta's Goldie Swimwear collection is out, and you can bet that the size-inclusive tankini will be the first to sell out.

      *Goldie Swimwear*

      Margo Halter Tank Top

      Another spotted tankini that I can't stop thinking about.

      *Damson Madder*

      Wren Tankini Top

      Damson Madder on sale? Hurry up while it lasts!

      Staud swimwear is at the top of my summer wish list.

      *Fruity Booty*

      Celine Polka Tankini

      I'll leave you with this lovely bridal option that I've been considering.