Okay, let's be real here. Bella Hadid's swimwear game has been absolutely insane this year, and honestly? I'm obsessed. Like, who doesn't want to look like they just stepped off a magazine cover while lounging by the pool, right?
But here's the thing - and I learned this the hard way after spending way too much money trying to recreate celebrity looks - you don't need to drop your entire paycheck on designer bikinis to nail that effortless Bella vibe. Trust me on this one.
I've been following her style evolution since she started dating that cowboy (Adan Banuelos, in case you're wondering), and wow, the western influence is real. Her recent Frankies Bikinis collab is gorgeous, don't get me wrong, but $ for a bikini? My wallet is crying just thinking about it. That's rent money for some of us!
Why Bella's Swimwear Hits Different in 2025
So here's what I've noticed about Bella's whole swimwear thing this year. She's not just throwing on any old bikini and calling it a day. There's this whole narrative happening with her looks that feels so authentic and... I don't know, lived-in? Maybe it's the Texas ranch life, but everything feels more grounded now.
Her partnership with Francesca Aiello makes total sense when you think about it. They've been friends for like, fifteen years or something crazy like that. And you can tell in the pieces - there's this personal touch that you just don't get with those generic celebrity collaborations that feel like they were designed by committee.
The suede bikinis though? Game changer. I never thought I'd be into the idea of suede swimwear (seems impractical, right?), but something about the texture and the whole cowgirl aesthetic just works. Plus, she's single-handedly brought back the tankini, which honestly, thank god. Some of us need that extra coverage!
The Best Affordable Dupes That Actually Work
1. Western-Style Suede-Look Sets ($25-$35)
I spent way too much time hunting for affordable versions of those gorgeous suede bikinis from her collection. The real ones are $140+, which is just... no. But I found some amazing alternatives that give you the same vibe without the financial panic.
Look for anything with that suede texture - doesn't have to be real suede, obviously, because that would be weird for swimwear anyway. The key is finding pieces in those earthy tones she loves. Tan, terracotta, that rich brown color that looks amazing on literally everyone.
I've had the best luck with triangle tops and string bikini bottoms. The adjustable ties are crucial because, let's face it, not all of us have supermodel proportions. Being able to customize the fit makes such a difference.
2. Plaid Patterns That Don't Look Cheap ($20-$30)
Okay, this one took me forever to get right. I bought so many plaid bikinis that looked cute online but arrived looking like they came from a costume shop. Not cute.
The trick is finding pieces where the plaid actually looks real, not like someone just printed a pattern on fabric. Bella's red and white tartan moment was everything, and while her version costs over $200, you can definitely find similar vibes for way less.
Gingham works too! Sometimes even better than tartan because it's a bit more subtle. I love how preppy it looks but still has that edge when you style it right.
3. Leopard Print with Personality ($22-$40)
Leopard print can go wrong so quickly, but when it's done right? *Chef's kiss* Bella's "Lucky Leopard" pieces with those little heart charms are adorable, but finding exact dupes with custom hardware is basically impossible unless you want to spend big money.
Instead, focus on leopard prints that don't look like they're from a Halloween costume (you know what I mean). The spots should vary in size, the colors should look natural, not cartoon-y. I've learned to avoid anything too bright or with spots that are all exactly the same size.
Ring details or chain accents can add that elevated touch that makes cheap pieces look more expensive. It's all about the details, honestly.
4. High-Waisted Retro Vibes ($18-$28)
Can we talk about how flattering high-waisted bikinis are? Like, why did we ever think low-rise was a good idea for everyone? Bella gets it - these styles work for so many body types and they're comfortable too.
The key is getting the waistline right. Too high and you look like you're wearing your mom's swimsuit from the 80s. Too low and you lose the whole point. I always look for pieces with a bit of ruching or shirring because it's forgiving and adds visual interest.
Mix and match is your friend here. Sometimes I'll pair a high-waisted bottom with a completely different top to create that curated look Bella does so well.
5. Simple Triangle Bikinis with a Twist ($15-$25)
Sometimes the simplest looks are the hardest to pull off, you know? Bella's minimal triangle bikinis look effortless, but there's actually a lot of thought that goes into making "simple" look good.
It's all about the proportions and the little details. Maybe it's an interesting tie detail, maybe it's the way the straps are positioned. Don't just grab the first triangle bikini you see - look for ones with something special about them.
These basics are honestly the foundation of any good swimwear collection. You can dress them up or down, layer them, mix them with other pieces. They're workhorses.
Where to Actually Find This Stuff
Alright, so where do you actually shop for decent dupes without getting totally ripped off or ending up with something that falls apart after one wash?
I've learned to avoid the super generic sites where everything looks the same. Instead, I look for retailers that are actually paying attention to current trends. You want places that are clearly trying to capture what's happening in fashion right now, not just selling the same basic bikinis they've had for five years.
Customer reviews with photos are everything. I don't buy anything anymore without scrolling through the reviews to see how pieces actually look on real people. It's saved me so many bad purchases.
Timing matters too. I've gotten my best deals shopping end-of-summer sales, but if you want the best selection, you have to shop early in the season. It's a trade-off between price and choice.
The Styling Secrets That Make All the Difference
Here's what I've figured out from studying way too many of Bella's Instagram posts (don't judge me): it's never just about the swimsuit itself.
She layers jewelry like nobody's business. Gold chains, layered necklaces, rings, bracelets - but it doesn't look overdone somehow. I think the key is mixing different textures and lengths so it looks intentional but not calculated.
The accessories are huge too. A good hat, the right sunglasses, maybe a bandana tied around your neck or wrist. These little touches make such a difference and they're way more affordable than upgrading your entire swimwear collection.
And can we talk about the photography? Her shots always look so natural and candid, even when they're clearly styled. I think it's because she's not trying to look perfect - she's just living her life and looking great while doing it.
What's Actually Trending Right Now
Based on what I'm seeing Bella wear (and what's all over my social media feeds), is definitely about comfort and versatility. Thank goodness, because I was getting tired of bikinis that only looked good but weren't actually practical for, you know, swimming.
The whole western influence is sticking around, which I love. There's something so cool about mixing those cowgirl elements with beach vibes. It shouldn't work, but it totally does.
Color-wise, I'm seeing lots of earthy tones, which is perfect because they're so much more flattering than those neon colors that were everywhere a few years ago. Browns, tans, sage greens - colors that actually work with most skin tones.
And patterns! Gingham is having a major moment, along with updated florals and some geometric prints. The key is finding patterns that feel fresh, not like they're trying too hard to be trendy.
How to Not Get Ripped Off
I've learned this lesson the hard way, so let me save you some trouble. Not all cheap swimwear is a good deal. Sometimes you really do get what you pay for.
Look for pieces made from nylon-spandex blends - they'll hold their shape better and won't get weird and baggy after a few wears. Check the seams too. If they look like they're barely holding together in the product photos, they're definitely not going to survive actual swimming.
I've also learned to be suspicious of anything that's priced way lower than similar items. There's usually a reason, and it's usually not a good one.
The sweet spot seems to be around $20- for pieces that will actually last. Yes, you can find cheaper, but you'll probably end up replacing them quickly. Better to invest a little bit more upfront.
Questions Everyone's Asking
Where can I find the best Bella Hadid swimwear dupes?
Honestly, it takes some hunting. I've had the best luck with retailers that are specifically trying to capture current celebrity trends, not just selling generic swimwear. Places with good customer reviews and return policies are your best bet.
How much should I spend on quality dupes?
I'd say expect to spend $15- per piece for something that's actually going to hold up. I know it's more than the absolute cheapest options, but trust me, it's worth it. You're still saving hundreds compared to designer pieces.
Can affordable pieces really look as good as the expensive ones?
Yes! But it takes some effort. The key is finding pieces that fit well and styling them right. Bella's impact comes from her confidence and styling choices, not just the price tag on her swimwear.
What should I look for in a good dupe?
Adjustable straps are crucial - fit is everything. Look for quality hardware that won't break or turn your skin green. And pay attention to the details that make pieces look more expensive, like interesting strap configurations or subtle design elements.
How do I make cheap swimwear look expensive?
It's all about the styling. Make sure everything fits properly (get alterations if you need to), invest in good accessories, and focus on creating a cohesive look rather than just throwing on a bikini and hoping for the best.
Are there sustainable options for affordable dupes?
Yes! More and more brands are using recycled materials and ethical production practices. They might cost a bit more than fast fashion, but they're still way cheaper than designer pieces and you can feel better about your purchase.
Final Thoughts
Look, I'm not going to lie and say that achieving Bella Hadid's swimwear style is effortless. It takes some work, some strategic shopping, and definitely some trial and error. I've made plenty of mistakes along the way.
But here's what I've learned: you don't need a celebrity budget to look amazing. You just need to be smart about your choices, pay attention to what actually works for your body type, and not be afraid to put your own spin on trends.
Bella's style works because it feels authentic to her. She's not just wearing expensive things because they're expensive - she's wearing pieces that fit her lifestyle and make her feel confident. That's something we can all recreate, regardless of our budget.
So go ahead, build that dream swimwear collection. Mix those patterns, layer that jewelry, take those Instagram photos. Life's too short to not feel amazing in your swimsuit, and you definitely don't need to break the bank to make it happen.
The western cowgirl beach babe look isn't going anywhere anytime soon, so you might as well lean into it. And trust me, when you find that perfect dupe that makes you feel like a supermodel, you'll know it was worth all the hunting.
