Here is your complete guide to the cheetah print swimsuit.
Introduction to Cheetah Print Swimsuit
The cheetah print swimsuit has roared back into fashion, becoming the most sought-after beachwear. Whether you’re lounging poolside or making waves at a tropical resort, this iconic design blends wild elegance with modern versatility. A cheetah print swimsuit isn’t just a seasonal trend-it’s a statement piece that transcends fleeting fads. From high-fashion runways to Instagram feeds, its bold pattern flatters all body types and adapts to endless styling possibilities. In this guide, we’ll explore how to choose, style, and care for your cheetah print swimsuit, ensuring you stand out with confidence.
Why Cheetah Print Swimsuits Are a Must-Have
Cheetah print has dominated swimwear trends since the 1990s, but 2025’s iterations are sleeker, bolder, and more inclusive. Brands like Summersalt and Victoria’s Secret have reimagined the print with sustainable fabrics and inclusive sizing, making it a top choice for eco-conscious shoppers.
Key Reasons to Own One:
- Versatility: Pairs effortlessly with denim shorts, linen skirts, or silk sarongs.
- Confidence Boost: The bold pattern draws attention to your curves in a flattering way.
- Timelessness: Unlike neon or tie-dye trends, cheetah print remains a classic.
Types of Cheetah Print Swimsuit
Bikinis: Cheetah Print Swimsuit
- Triangle Tops: Ideal for smaller busts (e.g., Revolve’s Luli Fama).
- High-Waisted Bottoms: Tummy control + retro vibes (Ark Swimwear).
- Bandeau Styles: Strapless design for even tan lines.
One-Pieces: Cheetah Print Swimsuit
- Cut-Out Designs: Sexy yet sophisticated (Solid & Striped).
- Plunge Necklines: Elongates the torso (Frankies Bikinis).
- Retro High-Leg: Channel 1980s glamour (Marysia).
Comparison Table of Cheetah Print Swimsuit
| Type | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Bikini Set | Petite/Curvy Frames | $50–$120 |
| One-Piece | Apple/Plus-Size Shapes | $80–$200 |
How to Style a Cheetah Print Swimsuit
- Accessories: Gold hoops, tortoiseshell sunglasses, and woven straw bags.
- Footwear: Opt for strappy sandals (day) or wedge espadrilles (night).
- Layering: Throw on a denim jacket or linen shirt for a casual vibe.
Pro Tip: Balance the bold print with neutral cover-ups like beige kaftans or black sarongs.
Best Cheetah Print Swimsuits for Every Body Type
1. Hourglass Figures
Top Picks:
- High-Waisted Bikinis: Accentuate curves with adjustable tops and Brazilian-cut bottoms (e.g., Ark Swimwear’s Leopard Bikini with tie-side bottoms)1.
- Plunge One-Pieces: Deep V-necklines highlight the waist (e.g., Pour Moi’s Underwired Swimsuit on Next UK)3.
Pro Tip: Pair with a belted sarong to emphasize the natural waistline.
2. Apple Shapes
Top Picks:
- Tummy-Control One-Pieces: Ruched designs with side panels (e.g., Next UK’s Brown Animal Bandeau Swimsuit with ruching)3.
- High-Neck Styles: Minimize midsection focus (e.g., Calzedonia’s Animal Print Bikini with supportive bandeau tops)5.
Pro Tip: Opt for darker underlays or color-blocked panels to create a slimming effect.
3. Pear Shapes
Top Picks:
- Ruffled Bikini Tops: Balance wider hips (e.g., PrettyLittleThing’s Ruffle Swimwear in cheetah print)6.
- Solid-Bottom Sets: Pair printed tops with black high-waisted bottoms (e.g., Holipick’s Mix-and-Match Options)4.
Pro Tip: Choose bottoms with side-tie details to customize coverage.
4. Plus-Size
Top Picks:
- Underwire Support: Structured cups for larger busts (e.g., Pour Moi’s Padded Underwired Swimsuit on Next UK)3.
- Skirted Swim Dresses: Flowy hemlines for thigh coverage (e.g., Next UK’s Brown Leopard Skirted Swim Dress)3.
Pro Tip: Look for reinforced side seams and power-mesh lining for longevity.
5. Petite Frames
Top Picks:
- Micro Bikinis: Elongate the torso (e.g., Alibaba’s Cheetah Print Micro Bikinis)7.
- High-Leg One-Pieces: Create the illusion of height (e.g., Calzedonia’s Retro High-Cut Styles)5.
Pro Tip: Avoid excessive ruching or horizontal seams that shorten the silhouette.
6. Athletic Builds
Top Picks:
- Cut-Out One-Pieces: Add curves with strategic detailing (e.g., PrettyLittleThing’s Strappy Bikinis)6.
- Bralette Tops: Soften angular shoulders (e.g., Ark Swimwear’s Leopard Bralette)1.
Pro Tip: Use bold prints to create the illusion of curves.
Comparison Table
| Body Type | Best Style | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Hourglass | High-waisted bikini | Adjustable waist emphasis13 |
| Apple | Ruched one-piece | Tummy-control panels35 |
| Pear | Ruffled top + solid bottom | Hip-balancing volume46 |
| Plus-Size | Underwire swim dress | Full-coverage support35 |
| Petite | High-leg one-piece | Height-enhancing cuts57 |
| Athletic | Cut-out designs | Curve-creating detailing61 |
Final Notes:
- Fabric Matters: Prioritize quick-dry, stretch-recovery materials (e.g., Ark Swimwear’s seamless fabric)1.
- Pattern Placement: Diagonal or asymmetrical prints flatter all body types46.
Top Cheetah Print Swimsuit Brands
| Brand | Official Link | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ark Swimwear | arkswimwear.com | Custom leopard prints, minimalist designs, and adjustable styles1. |
| Frankies Bikinis | frankiesbikinis.com | Celebrity-loved, high-fashion designs with plunging necklines3. |
| BĀMBA SWIM | bambaswim.com | 80s-inspired cuts, bold prints, and sustainable materials4. |
| John Lewis | johnlewis.com | Curated animal print swimsuits from brands like Pour Moi5. |
| CELINE | celine.com | Luxury leopard print suits with Triomphe chain detailing6. |
| SKIMS | skims.com | Body-inclusive sizing and seamless construction7. |
| Norma Kamali | mytheresa.com | Retro-inspired cheetah prints via retailers like Mytheresa8. |
Best Occasions for Cheetah Print Swimsuits
1. Beach Vacations
A cheetah print swimsuit adds instant glam to tropical getaways. Pair it with a wide-brim hat and oversized sunglasses for a chic Riviera-inspired look5.
2. Pool Parties
Stand out at daytime gatherings with a high-cut one-piece or a ruffled bikini. Layer with a sheer cover-up for effortless sophistication57.
3. Instagram Photos
The bold pattern is ideal for content creation. Style with gold jewelry and neutral backgrounds to let the print pop58.
4. Resort Evenings
Transform your swimsuit into eveningwear by pairing it with a maxi skirt or linen pants for a dinner-ready ensemble57.
5. Staycations
Elevate backyard lounging with a tummy-control one-piece and matching sarong for a mini escape vibe46.
6. Music Festivals
Wear under denim shorts or a mesh top for a festival-ready look that transitions from day to night57.
7. Yacht Trips
Opt for a sleek one-piece with cutouts to balance luxury and practicality on deck35.
8. Summer Brunches
Layer with a linen button-down and sandals for a casual yet polished brunch outfit57.
9. Romantic Getaways
Choose a plunging neckline or high-waisted bikini for flirtatious beachside moments58.
10. City Pool Clubs
Pair a minimalist cheetah bikini with heeled sandals and a clutch for urban poolside chic57.
Best Makeup, Hairstyles, Nails & Accessories for Cheetah Print Swimsuits
Makeup
- Neutral Glam: Pair the bold print with warm bronzer, nude lips, and soft brown smokey eyes1.
- Cheetah Accents: Add subtle leopard/cheetah spots using eyeliner or face gems for festive looks (inspired by TikTok tutorials)1.
- Sun-Kissed Glow: Use peach blush and highlighter to mimic natural warmth6.
Hairstyles
- Beach Waves: Effortless texture that complements the wild print6.
- High Ponytail: Sleek and sporty, balancing the swimsuit’s drama6.
- Braided Updo: Boho-chic vibe for resort evenings6.
Nails
- Neutral Tones: Beige, taupe, or milky white to avoid clashing6.
- Gold Accents: Metallic tips or cheetah-print nail art for cohesion1.
- Matte Finish: Modern alternative to glossy nails6.
Accessories
- Gold Jewelry: Hoops, layered necklaces, or cuff bracelets5.
- Straw Bags: Woven totes or raffia clutches for daytime5.
- Oversized Sunglasses: Tortoiseshell or gold-framed styles6.
- Sheer Cover-Ups: Crochet shawls or linen kaftans5.
Pro Tips
- Balance: If wearing bold accessories (e.g., chunky gold cuffs), keep makeup minimal.
- Layering: For night looks, add a mesh top or sequin skirt over the swimsuit5.
Sustainable Cheetah Print Swimwear
Eco-friendly brands are reinventing animal prints with recycled materials:
- Summersalt: Uses 78% recycled polyamide.
- Vitamin A: Crafts suits from recycled fishing nets.
- Patagonia: Offers Fair Trade Certified styles.
Fabric Guide:
| Material | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Recycled Nylon | Chlorine-resistant, durable |
| ECONYL® | Lightweight, quick-drying |
Cheetah Print vs. Other Animal Prints
| Vibe | Best For | |
|---|---|---|
| Cheetah | Modern, edgy | Night-to-day versatility |
| Leopard | Classic, retro | Vintage aesthetics |
| Zebra | Graphic, high-contrast | Statement looks |
Buying Guide: What to Look For
- Fabric: Prioritize UPF 50+ for sun protection.
- Fit: Adjustable straps and removable padding are essential.
- Budget: Mid-range ($80–$150) offers the best quality-to-price ratio.
Read Also: Bikinis for Small Boobs.
Cheetah Print Swimsuits in Pop Culture
- Celebrities: Beyoncé’s “Formation” music video featured a custom cheetah bikini.
- Movies: Blake Lively’s beach scenes in “A Simple Favor” (2018) revived the trend.
Read Also: Strapless One Piece Bathing Suit.
Care and Maintenance Tips
- Washing: Hand-wash in cold water with mild detergent.
- Drying: Lay flat on a towel-never wring.
- Storage: Use a mesh bag to prevent snags.
Read Also: Best Bra for Side Boob.
FAQs About Cheetah Print Swimsuit
Are cheetah print swimsuits flattering for all body types?
Yes! Opt for ruching or dark underlays to accentuate curves.
Read Also: 50s Swimsuit.
How do I prevent my swimsuit from fading?
Rinse immediately after swimming and avoid direct sunlight when drying.
Read Also: Brown One Piece Swimsuit.
Can I wear a cheetah print swimsuit to a formal pool party?
Absolutely-pair it with heels and a sleek updo.
Read Also: Plus Size White Swimsuit.
Conclusion
The cheetah print swimsuit is the ultimate blend of audacity and elegance. With the right styling, it transcends seasons, body types, and occasions. Ready to embrace your inner fashion predator?
Read Also: One Piece Black Swimsuit.
References and Resources:
- Heidi Klum’s Cheetah Bikini: InStyle.
- Gisele Bündchen’s Postpartum Swimsuit: HOLA!
- Nip Tuck Swim’s Animal Print Collections: Nip Tuck Swim.
- MANGO’s Leopard Print Swimsuits: MANGO OUTLET.
- Arena’s Performance Swimwear: Arena Sport.
- Celine’s Matte Jersey Swimsuit: CELINE.