I’m going to admit it. I’m all over the place when it comes to what I’ll spend on something. My bathing suit drawer features classic styles from Marysia and Tomas Maier right next to Marshall’s clearance finds. I am not a snob. If I love it, I will buy it, and that’s especially true when it comes to trying a trend that I’m not sure about. If I’m not ready to commit, I’ll try it on in an inexpensive version, and then later, if I love it, I might upgrade. I did this with my Old Navy chambray shirt. And my first peplum top, from TJ Maxx. And a midi skirt purchased on clearance at Dillard’s. Some, like the chambray shirt, became favorites. Others were seasonal novelties. Fast fashion gives you permission to dabble without blowing your budget. As with everything else in your closet, trendy swimsuits come in high and low end versions. My tip? Swimwear quality does matter, so if you love it, and plan to wear it for more a season, spring for a well-made version. But to try on a trend, and venture a little outside of your comfort zone, nothing beats a swimsuit steal. Here, a splurge vs. steal for the 5 top swimsuit trends.

1. Digital Print Maillot

Eye-catching digital prints feature everything from animal motifs to scenery to works of art, and a sleek maillot is the best way to show them off.

Splurge

We Are Handsome is a hip Australian swimwear brand known for its innovative eye catching prints.

We Are Handsome “Instinct” strappy back one piece suit, $272, Neiman Marcus. (Picture is linked, so click to shop).

Steal

This simple style from Amazon features a fun print for a song.

Meilaier “Tiger” print swimsuit, $12.99, Amazon. (Picture is linked, so click to shop).

2. Black/White

Sleek black and white suits are a seasonal trend with timeless appeal.

Splurge

This style from Australian brand Seafolly is beautiful and very well made.

Seafolly Costa Maya bikini top, $102, and bottom, $72, Amazon. (Picture is linked, but click to shop).

Steal

A cropped high-neck bikini in black and white in an inexpensive style that’s totally on trend.

Cfanny neoprene full coverage high neck Costa Maya bikini, $17.99, Amazon. (Picture is linked, so click to shop).

3. Strappy Suit

Strappy suits of every description, from those featuring a few simple straps at the back or sides to suits composed entirely of straps, are a significant trend this season.

Splurge

Red Carter’s strappy suit features great fit and quality.

Red Carter Splice and Dice one piece bandeau swimsuit, $157, Amazon. (Picture is linked, so click to shop).

Steal

This trendy style is a fun, inexpensive take on the trend.

Strappy black maillot, $29.79, Amazon. (Picture is linked, so click to shop).

Mesh Panel Suits

Sheer panels of mesh allow you to decide what to cover, and what to reveal.

Splurge

OYE swimwear is the master of mesh and lace, with multiple variations on this maillot. All are impeccably made and built to last.

OYE Swimwear “Bane” swimsuit, $350, Amazon. (Picture is linked, so click to shop).

Steal

The design on this black mesh suit isn’t as intricate as the OYE version, but it’s pretty and sophisticated and super affordable.

May&Maya black mesh panel swimsuit, $19.99, Amazon. (Picture is linked, so click to shop).

Colorblock

The colorblock trend takes a sporty turn in neoprene surf bikinis.

Splurge

A pretty sporty style from Victoria’s Secret features key details, from colorblocking to black piping.

Colorblocked flirt bandeau, $38.50, and itsy bottom, $22.50, Victoria’s Secret. (Picture is linked, so click to shop).

Steal

This colorful suit features the same sporty style, and it’s even more affordable.

GOBUBBY colorblock bikini, $10, Amazon. (Picture is linked, so click to shop).

Trying out a new swimsuit style doesn’t have to be a commitment. Just try one of these stylish trends, at a price that works for your budget!