A criss cross swimsuit top is really a bikini top with long straps you wrap and tie yourself, so the same piece can cross over the chest, wrap the waist or tie up as a secure halter effect behind the neck. Convertible versions let you move the ties around for different outfits. That flexibility is the appeal, and also the thing to manage, because long ties tangle under shirts and slip under waistbands. The 25 outfits below run from bikini bottoms and sarongs to linen pants and denim shorts, for swimming, lunch by the pool or a walk into town.
Three Ways to Tie a Wrap Swim Top
Most criss cross tops come with two long straps attached to the cups. How you route them changes both the support and the look, so I try each method at home before a trip rather than learning on the sand.
- Over the shoulders and tied behind: take each strap over the opposite shoulder, cross them at your back and tie them under the band. This gives the clearest X at the front and the most even support.
- Wrapped around the waist: cross the straps behind your back, bring them round to the front and tie at the waist. It adds a cinched line over high-waisted bottoms.
- Halter: take both straps up and tie them behind the neck. It's the quickest, but it hangs the weight from your neck, so it works better on a smaller bust.
Swim fabric relaxes a little when wet and knots slip once the straps are soaked, so tie a firm double knot and check it after your first swim. If the ties are long, finish with a small bow tucked under the band so the tails don't dangle or catch on a cover-up.
1. Black Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With High-Waisted Bottoms
Black is the safest color for a wrap top and the easiest to pack around. With a black criss cross swimsuit top, high-waisted bottoms in black look streamlined, while cream or rust bottoms add contrast. A white button-up worn open with rolled sleeves covers the shoulders without hiding the crossed straps. Flat leather slides, a woven tote and a wide-brim straw hat finish it. Black fades in chlorine and strong sun, so rinse it after every swim if you want it to stay black rather than turning gray.
2. White Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With Printed Bikini Bottoms
White swimwear looks fresh against a bright printed bottom, provided the print contains some white. That shared shade ties two pieces from different sets together. The honest catch is transparency once it's wet. Check for a lining or removable cups before you buy, and test it under the shower at home rather than discovering it on the beach. A semi-sheer white sarong covers the walk back to the hotel, with neutral flip-flops and a raffia bag. Small waterproof studs are the only jewelry I'd bring, since salt and chlorine are hard on delicate pieces.
3. Blue Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With Denim Shorts
Heading from the pool to a snack bar? A blue wrap top with high-rise denim shorts and an oversized white button-up is the easiest answer. I'd pick relaxed shorts over rigid, tight ones, because pulling stiff denim over damp swim bottoms is a struggle. Brown flat sandals and a canvas-and-straw tote finish it. Button the shirt at the waist when you want cover, or leave it open to show the neckline. Wet bottoms soak through denim quickly, so sit on a towel until you've dried off.
4. Green Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With Linen Pants
Linen pants give a green wrap top an easy resort feel. White or sand pants with a drawstring waist and a roomy leg pull on easily over matching bottoms. Wait until the swimsuit has mostly dried, though, because pale linen turns see-through and shows a wet outline. Keep the straps visible above the waistband. A straw visor and gold-tone hoops finish it, as long as the jewelry stays out of the water. Linen breathes and dries fast, which makes it one of the best fabrics I know for a seaside lunch.
5. Brown Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With Crochet Shorts
Brown and cream look rich together. A brown wrap top over cream crochet swim shorts brings two textures, and matching brown bottoms underneath make the open stitches look deliberate. Convertible criss cross tops suit crochet well, because the openwork gives a glimpse of the straps at the hip. Look for crochet sold as swim or cover-up wear; everyday cotton crochet soaks up water, gets heavy and stretches out of shape. Tan flip-flops and tortoiseshell sunglasses finish it, with a loose cream shirt for the shoulders.
6. Red Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With White Sarong
Red is the boldest choice here, and a clean white sarong lets it lead. Wrap the sarong at one hip so its knot sits away from the crossed straps. Flat white sandals and a straw tote keep it relaxed. If the top has long wrap strings, tie them off above the sarong instead of tucking them in, where they knot themselves into the fabric. Red swimwear can bleed in its first few washes, so rinse it on its own and never leave it rolled up wet against a white sarong in your bag.
7. Floral Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With Solid Bikini Bottoms
A floral wrap top can lead the whole outfit if the bottom is solid and pulled from the print, coral or navy for instance. That reads as a set without being one. When you tie the straps, check the print isn't twisted across the cups, which makes them look uneven. A solid sarong in the same color family, neutral slides and plain sunglasses keep the print in charge. It's a smart way to use separated swim pieces you already own instead of buying another matching set.
8. Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With a Matching Swim Skirt
A swim skirt gives hip coverage while the outfit still reads as a two-piece. Look for one with built-in briefs, quick-drying fabric and a waistband that sits below the lowest strap. Pair it with supportive water sandals, a visor and a zippered tote. If you plan to swim properly, check it isn't too loose, because a full skirt drags in the water. Matching colors make one smooth line; a contrasting skirt is more playful. Unlike a cover-up, you never have to take it off at the water's edge.
9. Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With Black Board Shorts
For paddleboarding or kayaking, board shorts are the practical choice. A secure waistband and some stretch matter more than the exact length. A bright top in turquoise or orange pops against black. Before any water sport, test the wrap: a convertible top can loosen as you paddle and twist, so tie a firm double knot and tuck the tail away. Water sandals, a cap and a small waterproof belt bag finish it. Put sunscreen on the skin between the crossed straps, because those little diamonds burn first and leave odd tan lines.
10. Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With a Crochet Maxi Skirt
A crochet maxi skirt turns a wrap top into a resort outfit you can walk to lunch in. A solid top and matching bottoms work best under a long cream or black crochet skirt, and a partly lined skirt gives more coverage. Flat metallic sandals and a straw handbag suit it. Keep the straps above the skirt waistband so the crossover shows. If the skirt has a bold pattern, plain swimwear keeps the balance. Long crochet stretches when it's damp, so put it on after you've dried off.
11. Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With Wide-Leg Beach Pants
Wide-leg beach pants are cool and light and still cover the legs. Try black swimwear with striped pants, or a colorful top with a plain white pair. An elastic high waist is comfortable and stays clear of the straps. Slides with a slightly thicker sole keep long hems off wet sand and puddles by the pool. A hair scarf keeps coastal wind under control. Quick-drying fabric matters most if you'll pull these on soon after a swim.
12. Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With a Mini Wrap Skirt
A mini wrap skirt is the most packable cover-up on the list. Pair a solid black top with a printed skirt, or a patterned top with a plain wrap, and keep matching bottoms underneath so you can drop the skirt and swim. Tie the skirt on the opposite side to any prominent knot or bow on the swimsuit, so the details don't pile up in one spot. Make sure the wrap overlaps generously, since a skimpy overlap flies open when you walk or sit. Strappy sandals and a small straw crossbody finish it.
13. Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With High-Waisted Shorts
High-waisted fabric shorts make a wrap top look like part of an ordinary summer outfit. Linen-blend or cotton shorts in tan or olive work best, with the waistband ending below the crossed straps so the top keeps its shape. An open shirt and a small woven bag finish it. Neutral shorts suit a bright top; striped shorts liven up black or white. Smooth bikini bottoms underneath avoid bulky lines. Espadrilles look right here, but their jute soles come apart when soaked, so keep them for dry streets, not the shoreline.
14. Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With a Sheer Beach Dress
A sheer beach dress covers you while letting the swimsuit show through. A loose mesh, gauze or crochet dress with a simple neckline avoids fighting the straps, and a matching set underneath keeps it coherent. Side slits make walking easier on sand. Skip dresses with ties across the chest, which tangle with the swimsuit straps. Flat slides, a large tote and a wide-brim hat finish it. It's the easiest way to walk through a hotel lobby or a beach path with some cover.
15. Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With a Striped Button-Up
A striped button-up over swimwear is the classic coastal layer. Put an oversized blue-and-white shirt over a solid navy or red wrap top, and leave it open or button the lower half for more coverage. Add denim shorts or a sarong, depending on the plan. Tie long waist straps securely before the shirt goes on, or they work loose underneath and you won't notice until they're trailing behind you. Roll the cuffs loosely. White slides and a canvas tote suit the nautical palette.
16. Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With a Kimono Cover-Up
A kimono adds color and arm coverage without hiding the front of the top. Start with a solid swim set and a light printed kimono worn open, so its edges frame the neckline. Knee length is easy; ankle length is more dramatic. Long, wide sleeves trail into food and pool water, so push them up at the table. Neutral flat sandals and a woven tote keep it calm. Take off any non-waterproof jewelry before swimming. I recommend this one to anyone whose shoulders burn easily.
17. Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With Palazzo Pants
Printed palazzo pants turn a plain wrap top into a bold vacation outfit. Match the top to one shade in the print, and choose a soft elastic waist with fluid fabric. Make sure the wrap straps sit smoothly above the waistband rather than disappearing under it. Platform slides and a small shoulder bag finish it, with no patterned accessories alongside a busy print. Wait until the swimsuit is dry before pulling these on, because a wet outline shows through light fabric.
18. Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With a Denim Skirt
A denim skirt gives the wrap top a beach-town feel. A high-rise A-line mini lets you move. Light wash suits a black or white top, while dark denim grounds a bright one. Matching bottoms underneath, an open cotton shirt and flat leather sandals complete it, and a canvas crossbody holds sunscreen better than a delicate purse. If you'll be changing while damp, pick a skirt with a front button or zip, since pulling a tight denim skirt over wet hips is a fight.
19. Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With Cargo Pants
Lightweight cargo pants make a sporty outfit for walking along the waterfront. Nylon or quick-drying pairs in khaki or olive beat heavy cotton. A fitted top balances the roomier pants. Sneakers or sport sandals and a cap suit it. Don't load the pockets: a phone in one and keys in the other will drag a light waistband down. A black top keeps it understated; cobalt adds energy. Cargo pants belong on dry land after a swim, not in the water.
20. Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With a Matching Sarong Set
A matching sarong is the quickest way to make a wrap top look complete. A sarong cut from the same fabric as the swim set makes the whole outfit look planned. Tie it at the side, the front or just above one hip, depending on where the straps sit. Adjust the length by folding the top edge before tying, shorter around the pool and longer for a public path. Neutral slides and a woven tote finish it. A set is already busy enough, so skip extra accessories.
21. Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With Biker Shorts
Swim biker shorts are the active alternative to bikini bottoms. High-rise black shorts in swim fabric give coverage for paddleboarding, beach volleyball or chasing kids into the waves. Check the label first: everyday cotton or gym leggings absorb water and get heavy. Water sandals, a cap and a waterproof backpack finish it. A bright top contrasts; all black looks sleek. Put sunscreen along the strap lines, across your shoulders and on any exposed midriff. Fitted shorts also keep long ties out of the way on active days.
22. Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With a Maxi Sarong
A maxi sarong gives long, adjustable coverage with plenty of movement. Pair a solid top with a printed sarong, or the reverse. Tie it securely and check that the hem clears the ground, since a wet, sandy hem drags and gets heavy. Flat metallic sandals and a straw bag finish it. Skip necklaces, which catch in crossed straps. If the sarong is sheer, matching bottoms underneath look more coordinated. It photographs well because the long fabric moves in the wind while the fitted top holds the shape.
23. Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With an Oversized T-Shirt
An oversized T-shirt is the most comfortable cover-up, and it adjusts easily: off one shoulder, knotted at the waist or pulled fully on. Pair the top with high-waisted bottoms and drawstring shorts, sporty slides and a cap. A white or gray tee goes with any swimsuit. Don't knot the tee tightly over wet swimwear, because damp cotton stretches out and the knot is hard to undo. Cotton suits lounging, while a quick-drying tee suits active days. It's the outfit I'd pack for family beach days with lots of back and forth.
24. Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With a Linen Skirt
A linen skirt softens the fitted wrap top. An elastic-waist midi or maxi in white or terracotta works over coordinating bottoms, with leather slides and a straw bag. Black or brown swimwear gives an earthy look, and a bright top feels more holiday. Keep the waistband below the lowest crossover strap so both details show. Pale linen shows moisture and can be sheer, so check it in daylight and dress once the swimsuit has stopped dripping. A good pick for a poolside lunch.
25. Criss Cross Swimsuit Top With a Matching Cover-Up Set
A matching cover-up set makes packing simple. A lightweight button-up and drawstring shorts in one color or print go over a solid matching swim set, shirt open and shorts sitting below the straps. Flat slides and a large tote finish it. Monochrome feels streamlined, while a printed set livens up plain swimwear. Check that the shirt doesn't snag on any strap rings or hardware. Each piece also works on its own, which gives you several outfits from one small set.
Rinsing Out Salt, Chlorine and Sunscreen
Chlorine, salt and sun all wear down the stretch fibers in swimwear, and long straps take the most strain. A few habits make a wrap top last more than one summer.
- Rinse it in cool fresh water as soon as you can after swimming, even if a proper wash has to wait.
- Hand wash with a gentle detergent. Skip the washing machine and the dryer, since heat breaks down elastane.
- Never wring it. Press the water out in a towel and dry it flat in the shade, not over a hot railing in full sun.
- Let sunscreen sink in before you put the swimsuit on. Some sunscreens leave yellowish marks on white and pale swimwear.
When packing, roll the top with its straps wound loosely around the cups so they don't knot in the suitcase. Keep wet swimwear in its own bag, too, so it isn't pressed against a linen shirt for hours on the way home.
A Wrap Swim Top That Works From Water to Lunch
A wrap swim top works with nearly everything on this list: bikini bottoms, swim skirts, sarongs, denim, linen and active pieces. What makes the difference is the practical side. Tie the straps firmly, check pale fabrics when wet and keep waistbands below the crossed straps so the detail shows. Matching colors look neat, and prints add personality. Bring sun protection, shoes you can walk in and a bag that suits the day, and one top can carry you through a whole trip.
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