Shopping for swimwear online can be tricky, especially when it comes to the back view. One brand's "Classic" is another brand's "Micro," and figuring out exactly how much skin you'll be showing is often a guessing game.
Choosing the right cut isn't just about modesty—it's about highlighting your best assets. Whether you want to elongate your legs, accentuate your curves, or just feel comfortable while swimming, the right cut makes all the difference.
Welcome to your ultimate bikini bottom coverage guide. Let’s break down the differences between Full, Cheeky, and Brazilian cuts so you can find your perfect fit.
1. Full Coverage (The Classic & Modest)
Full coverage bottoms are designed for maximum comfort and modesty. They typically cover about 80-90% of the buttocks.
Who it's for: If you plan on being very active—think surfing, diving, or chasing kids around the beach—full coverage is your best friend. It stays put and ensures you don't have to constantly adjust your suit.
Style Tip: Full coverage doesn't mean "frumpy." Look for High-Waisted styles. As seen in our Gingham collection below, a high-waist cut with full coverage accentuates the smallest part of your waist while offering a chic, vintage silhouette.
2. Cheeky Coverage (The Flattering Middle Ground)
This is currently the most popular cut in the swimwear world. A Cheeky bottom offers less coverage than a classic brief but more than a thong. It usually cuts across the cheek diagonally.
Who it's for: This is the "Goldilocks" cut—not too much fabric, not too little. By cutting across the cheek rather than under it, cheeky bottoms actually create a lifting effect, making the bum look rounder and perkier than full coverage styles.
3. Brazilian Coverage (The Bold & Bare)
When discussing Brazilian vs Cheeky, the main difference is the angle and the amount of skin shown. Brazilian cuts are V-shaped and offer minimal coverage, typically exposing 50% or more.
Who it's for: If your main goal is tanning and elongating your legs, this is the cut for you. Because Brazilian bottoms usually sit higher on the hips and have less fabric at the back, they create an optical illusion that makes your legs look miles long.
4. Summary: Which Should You Choose?
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Full Coverage: Best for modesty, heavy activity, and vintage aesthetics.
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Cheeky: Best for lifting the glutes and balancing coverage with tanning.
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Brazilian: Best for minimal tan lines and maximum confidence.
At Ocean Mystery, many of our side-tie bottoms allow you to adjust the coverage slightly by sliding the fabric along the string, giving you the versatility to switch between cheeky and Brazilian depending on your mood.
Ready to find your fit? Explore our complete collection of bikini bottoms to find your new summer staple.
