Hey babes 🌞 So, picture this: it’s a blazing Saturday in Byron Bay, and I’m sprawled across a vintage striped towel, iced oat latte in one hand, my phone blowing up with “where is that bikini from?!” DMs. I’m wearing the Penelope Bikini - Nude from Dekota Swim’s bikinis collection, and honestly? She’s giving main character energy.
Here’s the thing though — slaying summer doesn’t have to mean emptying your savings account. Because while TikTok might convince you that every beach look requires a designer price tag, I’m here to tell you… nah. You can absolutely shop bikinis under $100 in Australia and still look like you stepped straight out of a Bondi editorial.
And yes, I’m spilling my secrets. 🫶
Why Splurging Isn’t Always the Vibe
Okay, let’s get real for a sec. We’ve all done it — fallen for a $250 “luxury” bikini that promised to be life-changing… only for the straps to stretch out after two dips in the ocean. Meanwhile, your bank account is crying and you’re stuck hand-washing something more delicate than your situationship.
Honestly? Not the vibe.
I used to think expensive = better, until I started hunting down affordable pieces that actually last. Because quality doesn’t have to cost a fortune — especially when you shop brands like Dekota Swim who design with intention, not overproduction.
They’re not pumping out trend cycles like fast fashion. Instead, they’re dropping small-batch, timeless pieces that give you that luxe look without the luxe price tag. Most of their bestsellers sit at or under the $100 mark — and the durability? Chef’s kiss.
The Secret Sauce: How to Shop Bikinis Under $100 Australia
Alright, bestie. Let’s break it down like the TikTok trend reports do. If you want to buy affordable swimwear without sacrificing style, here’s how to finesse the game:
🖤 Go for Timeless Cuts
Skip the micro-trend chaos. That strappy upside-down halter thing that’s all over your FYP? Cute for a week, but will you wear it next summer? Exactly. Instead, invest in cuts that always slay: triangle tops, classic bandeaus, high-cut bottoms.
Try the Brooklyn Bikini – Citron for that minimal, clean-girl aesthetic — she’s a staple you’ll keep reaching for.
🎨 Choose Versatile Colourways
Colour can totally change the vibe. If you want max wear out of one bikini, go for shades you can mix and match. Neutrals like black, nude, khaki, and white are super versatile.
Think the Penelope Bikini – Black — it’s basically the swimwear version of a little black dress. Always iconic, always TikTok-worthy.
💦 Prioritise Quality-First Design
Here’s the hot tea: at Dekota Swim, pieces are made for longevity — not landfill. That means fewer replacements (read: less waste, more coins saved).
And while they’re not claiming to be fully sustainable just yet, they’re big on slow, intentional production and plastic-free packaging. It’s swimwear that looks good and feels good to buy. If you’re curious, you can learn more about their values on the About Us page.
My Top Picks Under $100 (That Totally Slay)
Here’s what’s currently living rent-free in my head — and my swim drawer:
Penelope Bikini - Nude
Clean, rich, and flattering on literally everyone. This is the one I wore in Byron and got 47 DMs about. She’s that girl.
Maya Bikini – Aztec
A bold, vibey print that screams “main character energy” on holiday. Perfect for beach club photo dumps.
Brooklyn Bikini – Peach
Sweet but not saccharine. Soft pastels are having a glow-up moment, and this one looks elite with gold jewellery.
Calliope Bikini – Black
Ultra-flattering, simple, and sleek. Think of this as your go-to bikini two piece when you can’t decide — she never misses.
Scarlett Bikini – Light Blue
This one just radiates coastal energy. If you’ve seen @ella.in.bali’s reel in this, you know why I’m obsessed.
Most of these come in at under $100 for the full set — so you can snag more than one without the guilt spiral. 🫶
Want to see them all? Explore our full range of bikini two piece styles and find your match.
The Cost-Per-Wear Reality (Math, But Make It Fashion)
Let’s be a little nerdy for a moment — cost-per-wear is the real MVP when it comes to budget-friendly fashion.
If you grab a $90 bikini and wear it 15 times this summer, that’s just $6 per wear. Compare that to a $250 bikini you wear twice (because you’re scared to ruin it) — that’s $125 per wear.
See? Being budget-savvy is actually the glow-up move.
So yes, buying swimwear online doesn’t just save you the trauma of bad change-room lighting — it also helps you think smarter. 💅
Quick Style Tips to Maximise Your Budget Bikinis
Wanna stretch your bikini wardrobe without spending more? Here’s how I do it:
Mix and match tops + bottoms. A black top and printed bottom = new look. Easy.
Style them as crop tops. Pair your bandeau with linen shorts for an instant beach-to-bar fit.
Add accessories. Gold hoops, a silky headscarf, a beach tote — boom. Elevated.
Layer sheer pieces. Mesh skirts, crochet dresses — they instantly make a bikini feel styled.
Suddenly, your one bikini looks like five different fits on the grid. Sass level: unlocked.
A Little Real Talk on “Sustainable” Swimwear
Since we’re being transparent besties, let’s talk about this for a sec.
At Dekota Swim, we’re not perfect — but we’re intentional.
While our current swimwear isn’t made from recycled fabrics (yet!), we focus on quality-first pieces made to last, which means fewer replacements, less waste, and more wear. We also produce in smaller batches to avoid overstock and use plastic-free packaging where possible.
So if you’ve been on the hunt for a sustainable bathing suit that’s genuinely designed with longevity in mind, you’re in the right place. It’s not about perfection — it’s about progress.
Want to see which sets are part of our low-waste ethos? Check out our sustainable swimwear collection.
What About “Bikini Model Bikinis”? 👙
I get this question a lot: “What even is a bikini model bikini?”
Honestly? It’s less about body type and more about attitude. A bikini model bikini is any set that makes you feel like the confident, glowing, centre-of-attention star you are.
And guess what — confidence doesn’t cost extra. Whether it’s the Maya Bikini – Poppy or the Scarlett Bikini – Pink, if it makes you strut down the sand like it’s your runway… it’s a bikini model bikini. Period.
FAQs From My DMs 💌
Q: Will under-$100 bikinis last more than one season?
A: Absolutely — if they’re made well. Dekota Swim’s pieces are lined, supportive, and designed to withstand actual ocean swims (not just poolside lounging).
Q: How do I make sure it fits when buying swimwear online?
A: Check the size guide (they run true to size), and don’t be afraid to mix sizes between tops and bottoms for your perfect fit.
Q: Can I return it if it doesn’t fit?
A: Yep! Dekota Swim offers returns on full-priced items — check the policy online before you order.
Ready to Slay on a Budget?
Babes, consider this your official permission slip to look expensive without spending big. Because the truth is, style has never been about the price tag — it’s about confidence, creativity, and knowing what works for you.
So next time you’re tempted by a $300 bikini with a micro-string the width of dental floss… remember this guide.
Start with one timeless set (I’m still rooting for the Maya Bikini – Blackberry), mix it up, and make it your own. Summer slay secured. 😘
Shop bikinis under $100 Australia with Dekota Swim — and tag me @dekotaswim.official when you pull this look. I’ll probably repost it, no cap. 💌
