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Growing up on the Outer Banks means I've gone through my fair share of swimsuits. All it takes is one summer of surfing wipeouts, sun bathing, swimming, and hitting up the shops (because you really do everything in a bathing suit on the OBX) to know exactly which bathing suit brands are worth buying — and which are cheap enough to avoid forever. I took to social media to ask real Outer Banks locals which bathing suit brands they can't get enough of, and rounded up suits that are under $100. Keep reading for all the details!
Target
Image via Target
I know y'all love Target just as much as I do — and along with their home decor, cute shoes, and comfy clothes, their bathing suit options are some of my friends' favorites. Target's got a ton of diverse and affordable swimwear options that is full of different styles, sizes, and prices. That means there's something for everyone! I'm obsessed with this Underwire Bralette Bikini Top and High Waist High Leg Extra Cheeky Bikini Bottom.
The print is a super cute and summery leaf pattern that will make you feel as tropical as your vacation ;). And thanks to the wide straps, you also don't have to worry about uncomfortable strings digging into your shoulders.
The bottoms come in sizes XS-XL, while the top ranges from 32B-38DD, making this a great option for all kinds of bathing suit wearers! While underwire styles can be uncomfortable, one reviewer notes that "it is such a durable and comfortable material and style that it has quickly become my go to."
Kitty And Vibe
Image via Kitty and Vibe
Kitty And Vibe will make you feel cute, confident, and bold, all at the same time. I love the coverage this brand offers — and how they have different bottom sizes depending on YOUR bottom. The Bandeau Top and High Leg Mid Rise Bottoms in Paloma are making me crave a cocktail.
While you can wear the bandeau top as pictured, is also comes with removable and adjustable shoulder straps and removable cups.
The top is available in XS-4X, while the bottoms are available in XS-6X. "I love it so much my new fav bathing suit fit very well highly recommend," according to a reviewer.
Aerie
Image via Aerie
Aerie is perfect for Outer Banks fans because it's one of the most-used bathing suit brands on the show! This store balances style with comfort and casual, and TBH half the swimsuits are cute enough to be tank tops. Their bathing suits will make you feel confident and add a pop of color to your summer wardrobe! This Smiley® String Triangle Bikini Top and Cheekiest Tie Bikini Bottom are a great place to start.
The smiley flower pattern on this bathing suit is a super friendly print that will always put you in a better mood. And the bright green is vibrant and eye-catching.
This bikini top ranges from XS-XL, while the bottoms are currently offered from XS-L.
Kortni Jeane
Image via Kortni Jeane
Kortni Jeane lets you mix and match different vibes to create a bathing suit that's unique to you and your personal aesthetic. I'm confident Kiara would love this Bandeau Top and All Ruffled Up Bottoms.
I love that both this top and bottom are fully lined, and that the top has elastic hems so it fits just right.
These suits come in XS-XXL, and are super comfortable according to reviewers. "Great coverage, just like the top. So comfortable, far more comfort than any other swimsuit I have gotten!"
Old Navy
Image via Old Navy
Old Navy is a great place to shop for affordable basics, and that definitely extends to swimsuit season. Their bathing suits come in a range sizes, and they're durable, classic, and super affordable (a lot of them are under $20!). They also have just enough Americana edge to live out your '00s rom-com dreams. I can't stop looking at the Zip-Front Bikini Swim Top and High-Waisted Bikini Swim Bottoms.
The bright, punchy orange will turn heads, whether you're at a pool party or on the beach.
I love that this bathing suit is offered in so many different sizes. You can grab both the top and bottoms in an XS-4X. Multiple reviews point out how comfortable the top is, which immediately gets a thumbs up from me.
AlySwim
Image via AlySwim
If you're looking for the true Outer Banks experience, then you should grab a suit made by someone who grew up there! AlySwim is totally customizable, and a lot of the suits are reversible so you get two looks for the price of one. With trendy patterns and vibrant colors, bathing suits like the Blue Hawaiian Eva Top and Bottoms will make a bold statement.
These handmade swimsuits have the perfect amount of personality and color for all your summer adventures.
Because Alyswim suits are custom ordered, there are fewer sizes available right now online BUT that just means you can directly order a suit that fits you like a glove!
Kenny Flowers
Image via Kenny Flowers
This suit immediately reminds me of Palm Royale every time I look on their site because of the old school vibe and bright colors. I NEED the Acapulco Underwire Bikini Top and High Waist Bikini Bottom!!
The shape and silhouette is flattering and adjustable (which is super important when you're surfing one minute and grabbing açaí bowls the next). Plus the fabric is soft AND made with SPF 30+.
You can grab a bathing suit for yourself in sizes XS-XL. According to a review, "Everything I’ve purchased from Kenny Flowers is high quality and a great fit! I have about 7 of their swimsuits, and keep coming back for more!"
Maaji
Image via Maaji
This bathing suit brand is the thing of our '90s dreams, and each bathing suit will make you feel the summer magic we crave all year long. I love the Hot Magenta Adhara V Wire Bralette Bikini Top and Sublimity Regular Rise Classic Bikini Bottoms!
This suit is reversible and recycled, and is classic enough for almost any kind of summer event.
You can grab this Barbie-approved bathing suit in sizes XS-XL.
Every cute bathing suit needs equally cute accessories so check out The 5 Most Comfortable Walking Sandals For Summer, Ranked next!
Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Lead image via Netflix
This post has been updated.
