Strappy Bikini Briefs: How to Style and Wear Them
By Miss Mandalay - D+ Bras, Swimwear & Bikinis | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to style and wear strappy bikini briefs with confidence, including fit tips and outfit ideas for the Rizzo and Canyon prints.
Quick answer
Strappy bikini briefs add edge and visual interest to your swim look, but the key is balancing the straps with your body shape and choosing the right top.
Why strappy sides work differently on different body types
The side straps on a bikini brief draw the eye outward, which can make hips appear wider. If you have a straight or athletic frame, this creates the illusion of curves. If you already have wide hips, a lower-cut strap placement (like the Canyon Print) may flatter more than a high-cut one (like the Rizzo).
Straps also create visual breaks, so they can shorten the leg line. To counter that, pair strappy briefs with a high-leg cut or a monokini-style top that elongates your torso.
How to style and wear strappy bikini briefs in 4 steps
- Choose the right strap height for your hip shape: If your hips are narrow or straight, pick a brief with straps that sit high (like the Rizzo) to add width. If your hips are already curvy, go with a lower strap (like the Canyon) to avoid a widening effect. Common mistake: buying a strappy brief based only on print, ignoring strap placement.
- Pair with a top that balances the visual weight: Strappy bottoms draw attention to the hips, so wear a top with similar visual interest—like a bandeau with a front knot or a triangle top with adjustable ties. Avoid a plain, solid-color top unless you want to emphasize your lower half. Checkpoint: hold the set together in front of a mirror and see if the eye moves evenly between top and bottom.
- Adjust straps to prevent digging or slipping: Strappy briefs rely on tension to stay in place. Before you hit the water, tighten the straps just enough so they lie flat against your skin without pinching. If the straps are loose, they can flip or dig in when wet. Common mistake: leaving straps too loose, then having them twist or snap against the skin after swimming.
- Style for the occasion—beach vs. poolside: For active beach days (swimming, volleyball), choose a brief with a single, lower strap like the Canyon—it stays put better. For lounging or photos, the double-strap Rizzo adds a fashion-forward edge. Cover with a sheer sarong or high-waisted shorts when walking away from the water. Checkpoint: if you plan to be active, test the straps by doing a few squats or a quick swim in the changing room.
Products mentioned
- Rizzo Strappy Bikini Brief: The Rizzo Strappy Bikini Brief is a cut-away style with two straps on each side, in a purple print. The two straps sit higher on the hip, making this a good choice if you want to emphasize your waist-to-hip ratio.
Rizzo Strappy Bikini Brief - Canyon Print Strap Bikini Brief: The Canyon Print Strap Bikini Brief has a cut-away side detail in a rust print, with fully lined front and good coverage. The single-strap detail sits lower, which can be more forgiving on wider hips and still gives that strappy look without adding bulk.
Canyon Print Strap Bikini Brief
