String Bikini vs Brazilian vs Cheeky: What is the Difference?

String bikini, Brazilian, cheeky, tie-side - all those names for bikini bottoms can be confusing. In this guide we explain the difference so you know exactly what you are ordering and what suits your figure best.

The 4 Main Types

1. String / Tie-Side - Minimal

Thin side strings and minimal fabric front and back. Maximum tan, minimum tan lines. Popular in Brazil and Ibiza.

• Least fabric - fewest tan lines
• Sexiest option

Browse our string and tie-side collection

2. Brazilian - The Middle Ground

More fabric than a string but still shows a large part of the buttocks. Flatters almost every figure and makes legs look longer optically.

• Flatters hips and buttocks
• Makes legs look longer
• Best for: most body types

Browse our Brazilian bikini collection

3. Cheeky - Playful and Flattering

Shows the lower part of the buttocks. Trendy and flatters rounder shapes.

• Rounder buttocks look great
• Adjustable straps give extra control

Browse our cheeky bikini collection

4. High Waist - Maximum Coverage

Fully covers the tummy, retro-chic look, light compression and longer leg line.

• Fully covers tummy
• Legs look longer
• Best after pregnancy or when you want tummy coverage

Browse our high waist collection

Which Type Suits Your Figure?

Full body type guide: Which bikini suits my figure? Complete guide 2026

• Slim hips - Brazilian or cheeky for optical curves
• Wide hips - Dark Brazilian with details at the top
• Round buttocks - Cheeky shows your best side
• Tummy - High waist for light coverage. See: Corrective swimsuit guide
• After pregnancy - High waist or corrective. See: Bikini after pregnancy 2026

Size Guide

PilyQ tie-side bottoms run true to size. Garotas run true to size. Towers run small - order 1-2 sizes up. Full size chart: Bikini Size Guide 2026

Our Top Picks per Type

String / Tie-side:

• Garotas Lilac String Set

Brazilian:

• Fanned Blue Brazilian - PilyQ lace

Cheeky:

• Luxury Cheeky with Pearl Details

High Waist:

• All High Waist bottoms

Browse all bikini sets or build your own Mix & Match combination. Free shipping NL, BE, DE, AT and ES.