Xhilaration Bikini

Affordable Swimwear That Doesn’t Compromise on Style or Quality

Summer is finally here, and there’s no better time to refresh your swimwear collection. If you’ve been scrolling through social media, flipping through magazines, or walking past your local Target, chances are you’ve spotted the vibrant and trendy Xhilaration swimwear line. But what exactly makes these bikinis stand out in a saturated market? Today, I’m diving deep into everything you need to know about this popular swimwear brand that has become a staple in many beach bags across the country.

As someone who has spent countless summers testing different swimwear brands, I’ve developed a keen eye for quality, comfort, and style. When it comes to affordable yet fashionable options, Xhilaration bikinis offer incredible value without compromising on design or durability. Let’s explore why these swimsuits might be your perfect summer companion.

What Exactly Is an Xhilaration Bikini?

For those unfamiliar with the brand, Xhilaration is Target’s in-house junior’s clothing and swimwear line that has been delivering on-trend styles for years. The swimwear collection, in particular, has garnered quite a following for its ability to capture current fashion trends while maintaining affordability.

Xhilaration bikinis are known for their youthful, playful designs that appeal to teens and young adults, though many women of all ages have found pieces they love within the collection. The brand prides itself on creating swimwear that encourages self-expression through vibrant colors, eye-catching patterns, and diverse silhouettes.

What sets Xhilaration apart is its commitment to keeping up with fashion trends while ensuring its swimwear remains accessible. From retro-inspired high-waisted bottoms to contemporary cut-out details, the brand consistently delivers styles that feel current and Instagram-worthy without the designer price tag.

Where to Find Xhilaration Bikinis

The most direct answer to this question is Target. As Target’s exclusive junior brand, Xhilaration swimwear is primarily available at Target stores nationwide and through Target’s website. This exclusivity has actually worked in the brand’s favor, as Target’s widespread presence makes the swimwear easily accessible to shoppers across the country.

When shopping in-store, you’ll typically find Xhilaration bikinis in the juniors’ section, though during peak swimwear season (generally spring through summer), many Target locations create dedicated swimwear displays that feature their various brands, including Xhilaration.

Online shopping for Xhilaration swimwear is straightforward through Target.com, where you can filter by size, style, color, and price. One advantage of shopping online is the ability to read customer reviews, which can be incredibly helpful when deciding between styles or determining if a particular piece runs true to size.

While Target is the primary retailer, you might occasionally find Xhilaration pieces on resale platforms like Poshmark, ThredUP, or eBay, often at even more discounted prices. However, for the most current collections and complete size ranges, Target remains your best bet.

The Exclusive Target Connection

Yes, Xhilaration is indeed sold exclusively at Target. This exclusivity is by design, as Xhilaration is one of Target’s private-label brands created specifically for their stores. This exclusive relationship allows Target to maintain control over the brand’s pricing, quality, and design direction, ensuring it aligns with their overall merchandising strategy.

This Target-exclusive status has helped shape Xhilaration’s identity as an affordable fashion brand. Target has positioned Xhilaration to compete with fast-fashion retailers by offering trend-forward designs at accessible price points, making fashion-forward swimwear available to a broader audience.

For shoppers, this exclusive relationship means you won’t find Xhilaration swimwear at other department stores or retailers like Macy’s, Kohl’s, or Walmart. While this might seem limiting, Target’s extensive physical and online presence makes the brand widely available to most consumers across the United States.

Diverse Styles to Suit Every Preference

One of Xhilaration’s greatest strengths is the impressive variety of styles available within their bikini collections. Whether you’re looking for something modest, sporty, flirty, or bold, there’s likely an Xhilaration style that meets your needs.

For tops, the range typically includes:

• Triangle bikini tops (both fixed and sliding)
• Bandeau and strapless styles
• Scoop neck and crop top designs
• Halter and high-neck options
• Push-up styles for enhanced support
• Bralette-inspired tops with trendy details

Bottom options are equally diverse:

• Classic bikini bottoms
• High-waisted styles with varying coverage
• Cheeky cuts for a more revealing look
• Swim skirts for additional coverage
• Side-tie bottoms for adjustable fit
• Boyshorts for athletic activities

Beyond these basics, each season typically brings trend-specific styles. Recent collections have featured cut-out details, asymmetrical designs, ruffles, retro-inspired silhouettes, and various strapping details that add visual interest.

What’s particularly appealing about Xhilaration’s diverse style range is that it allows shoppers to find swimwear that not only fits their aesthetic preferences but also addresses practical concerns like support, coverage, and comfort levels.

The Sizing Question: Do They Run True to Size?

The question of whether Xhilaration bikinis run true to size is perhaps one of the most frequently asked by potential customers, and the answer is somewhat nuanced.

Generally speaking, Xhilaration bikinis tend to run slightly small compared to standard American sizing, particularly in the tops. Many reviewers and regular wearers suggest sizing up, especially if you’re between sizes or prefer a more comfortable fit. This is particularly true for bandeau styles or tops with structured cups, which may offer less flexibility in fit than stretchy triangle styles.

Bottoms usually run more true to size, though high-waisted styles sometimes have less stretch in the waistband than expected. If you have a longer torso, you might want to consider sizing up in high-waisted bottoms to ensure comfortable coverage.

It’s worth noting that sizing consistency can vary between different styles within the Xhilaration line. A triangle top might fit differently than a bandeau from the same collection, even in the same nominal size. This variation is one reason why many shoppers prefer to try on Xhilaration swimwear in-store when possible.

The good news is that Target’s generous return policy makes it relatively risk-free to order multiple sizes online if you’re uncertain. Many shoppers adopt the strategy of ordering their regular size as well as one size up, then returning whichever doesn’t fit as well.

Size Range: Is There Something for Everyone?

Xhilaration’s size range has expanded over the years in response to increasing demand for inclusive sizing across the fashion industry. Currently, most Xhilaration bikini styles are available in sizes XS through XL, which typically corresponds to US sizes 0-16.

For tops specifically, band sizes generally range from 32 to 38, with cup sizes from A to D, though this varies by style. Some structured tops might offer specific bra sizing, while others use the standard letter sizing system.

While this range covers many body types, it’s important to note that Xhilaration’s primary focus has traditionally been on the juniors’ market, which can mean that the cuts and proportions are designed with younger shoppers in mind. This doesn’t mean older shoppers can’t find great options within the line, but it might require trying different styles to find the most flattering fit.

Plus-Size Options: Expanding Inclusivity

In recent years, Target has made significant strides toward size inclusivity across their fashion offerings, and this extends to their swimwear lines including Xhilaration. While Xhilaration’s core sizes typically run from XS to XL, the brand has gradually expanded to include more plus-size options.

Currently, many Xhilaration styles are available in extended sizes up to XXL, and some collections include sizes up to 3X. Additionally, Target often features similar styles in their other in-house brands that cater specifically to plus sizes, such as Shade & Shore, which offers many designs reminiscent of Xhilaration’s aesthetic but in a more comprehensive plus-size range.

The plus-size Xhilaration bikinis generally maintain the same playful, trend-forward aesthetic as their standard-size counterparts, with thoughtful adjustments to provide appropriate support and flattering cuts for curvier figures. These often include features like wider straps, more supportive band structures, and slightly more coverage while still preserving the youthful, fashionable spirit of the brand.

While Xhilaration’s plus-size range is growing, it’s worth noting that the selection in extended sizes may be more limited than in standard sizes, particularly for some of the more trend-specific designs. However, each new season seems to bring expanded options, reflecting Target’s commitment to becoming more inclusive.

Price Point: Affordable Fashion That Doesn’t Break the Bank

One of the most compelling aspects of Xhilaration bikinis is their affordability, especially when compared to other trend-focused swimwear brands. Typically, Xhilaration bikini separates range from $14.99 to $24.99 per piece, meaning a complete bikini can be purchased for around $30-$50.

This price point positions Xhilaration as a budget-friendly option that allows shoppers to experiment with current swimwear trends without making a significant financial commitment. It’s particularly appealing for those who like to refresh their swimwear collection seasonally or try styles they might be hesitant to invest more heavily in.

Despite the affordable price point, Xhilaration maintains a reasonable quality standard. While these bikinis may not last as many seasons as higher-end brands that use premium materials and construction techniques, they generally hold up well through a summer of regular use with proper care.

Target frequently runs sales on their swimwear, particularly later in the season, making Xhilaration bikinis even more affordable. End-of-season clearance can see prices drop to as low as $5-$10 per piece, presenting an excellent opportunity to stock up for the following year.

Mix and Match: Creating Your Perfect Combination

One of the most appreciated features of the Xhilaration swimwear line is the ability to mix and match tops and bottoms. Rather than selling bikinis as fixed sets, Xhilaration pieces are typically sold as separates, allowing customers to create customized combinations that best suit their body shape and personal style.

This mix-and-match approach offers several advantages:

First, it accommodates shoppers who wear different sizes on top and bottom, a common situation that can make buying fixed bikini sets frustrating. With Xhilaration, you can purchase a medium top and small bottom (or whatever combination fits you best) without compromise.

Second, it allows for creative expression through color and pattern mixing. While Xhilaration designs coordinating pieces within each collection, nothing prevents you from creating unique combinations across different style lines or even seasons. This flexibility helps extend the wearability of your swimwear, as you can create multiple looks from just a few pieces.

Finally, the separate pricing model means you can prioritize where to spend more based on your specific needs. If you require more support up top, you might opt for a slightly more expensive structured top while pairing it with a simpler bottom.

Target typically displays Xhilaration swimwear in a way that suggests coordinating pairings while making it clear that pieces can be purchased individually, encouraging shoppers to create their ideal combinations.

High-Waisted Options: Retro Appeal with Modern Flair

Following the revival of retro swimwear trends, high-waisted bikini bottoms have become a significant part of Xhilaration’s offerings. These styles, which typically sit at or above the navel, have gained popularity for their blend of modest coverage and vintage-inspired aesthetic.

Xhilaration’s high-waisted bottoms come in various iterations:

• Classic high-waisted designs that provide full coverage across the stomach
• High-cut styles that elongate the legs while still providing midriff coverage
• Ruched versions that offer texture and a flattering fit
• Cut-out variations that combine the coverage of high-waisted styles with strategic revealing elements

Many shoppers appreciate high-waisted styles for their ability to provide more coverage while still feeling fashionable and current. They can be particularly flattering for those looking to minimize focus on their midsection or who prefer not to wear more revealing traditional bikini bottoms.

Xhilaration’s high-waisted options typically maintain the brand’s playful approach through vibrant colors, interesting patterns, and trendy details, ensuring that the increased coverage doesn’t come at the expense of style.

When shopping for Xhilaration high-waisted bottoms, it’s worth noting that they tend to have less stretch than traditional bikini bottoms, so sizing up might be necessary, especially if you have a longer torso or prefer a more comfortable fit around the waist.

Material Matters: What Goes Into Xhilaration Bikinis

Xhilaration bikinis are primarily made from synthetic blends designed to provide stretch, quick drying, and durability in water. The most common material composition is a nylon/spandex blend, typically in ratios around 80-90% nylon and 10-20% spandex (elastane).

This composition offers several benefits:

• The high nylon content provides durability and resistance to chlorine and saltwater
• The spandex component delivers the necessary stretch for comfort and fit
• The materials dry relatively quickly compared to natural fibers
• The synthetic nature of the fabrics helps maintain color vibrancy even with sun exposure

Some Xhilaration styles incorporate additional materials for specific design elements, such as mesh inserts for visual interest, crochet overlays for texture, or metal hardware for embellishment. These details contribute to the trendy aesthetic that Xhilaration is known for while generally maintaining the swimwear’s functionality.

While the material quality is appropriate for the price point, it’s worth noting that Xhilaration bikinis typically use a lighter weight fabric than premium swimwear brands. This makes them comfortable for most casual swimming and beach activities, though they may not provide the same level of compression or structure as higher-end options.

Performance: Beyond Just Looking Good

Despite their fashion-forward design and budget-friendly price point, Xhilaration bikinis are indeed designed for actual swimming, not just poolside lounging. The materials and construction are intended to withstand exposure to chlorine, saltwater, and sun, making them suitable for typical beach and pool activities.

That said, there are some considerations regarding performance:

For casual swimming and water activities, Xhilaration bikinis generally perform well. The synthetic materials maintain their stretch when wet and dry relatively quickly. Most styles provide adequate coverage to stay in place during normal swimming and light water play.

However, for more athletic water activities like surfing, swimming laps, or water sports, some Xhilaration styles may not provide the level of support and secure fit required. Styles with tie closures or minimal coverage might not stay in place during vigorous movement, and the lighter weight fabric doesn’t offer the compression and structure that performance swimwear brands prioritize.

If you’re planning to use your Xhilaration bikini primarily for active water sports, look for styles with more secure closures (like back clasps rather than ties), higher necklines that won’t shift, and bottoms with adequate coverage and a snug but comfortable fit.

Care Instructions: Maintaining Your Swimwear

To get the most life out of your Xhilaration bikinis, proper care is essential. While these swimsuits are designed to be relatively low-maintenance, following a few simple guidelines can significantly extend their lifespan:

Yes, Xhilaration bikinis are generally machine washable, but hand washing is preferred for longevity. If you do use a washing machine, opt for a gentle cycle in cold water and place the swimwear in a mesh laundry bag to prevent stretching or snagging.

After wearing your bikini, always rinse it promptly in cool, fresh water to remove chlorine, salt, sunscreen, and body oils, all of which can degrade the fabric over time. This quick rinse is especially important after swimming in chlorinated pools, as chlorine is particularly harsh on swimwear fabrics.

When washing, use a mild detergent specifically formulated for delicates or swimwear if possible. Regular detergents can be too harsh and may break down the elasticity of the spandex.

Never wring out your swimwear, as this can damage the fibers and affect the garment’s shape. Instead, gently press out excess water and lay flat to dry. Avoid direct sunlight when drying, as UV rays can fade colors and damage elastic fibers.

Finally, avoid contact between your swimwear and rough surfaces like concrete pool edges or unfinished wood, which can cause pilling, snags, or tears in the fabric.

With proper care, an Xhilaration bikini can easily last through a full season of regular use, and potentially longer if worn less frequently.

Seasonal Collections: Staying on Trend

One of Xhilaration’s strengths is its commitment to offering fresh, seasonal collections that reflect current swimwear trends. Typically, new Xhilaration swimwear begins appearing in Target stores and online around late winter to early spring (January-March), with the fullest selection available by April or May in most locations.

Each season’s collection generally features a mix of:

• Updated versions of classic styles in new colors and prints
• Trend-specific designs that reflect current runway and street style influences
• Coordinating cover-ups and beach accessories
• A range of mix-and-match pieces that can be combined in multiple ways

The seasonal nature of Xhilaration’s release schedule means that specific styles may only be available for a limited time. If you find a style you particularly love, it might be worth purchasing a backup, as the exact same design may not return in subsequent seasons.

Target typically transitions seasonal focus around July or August, when swimwear begins moving to clearance to make room for back-to-school and fall merchandise. This end-of-season period offers excellent opportunities for discounted purchases, though size availability becomes more limited.

For shoppers in warmer climates or those planning winter beach vacations, limited swimwear options, including some Xhilaration styles, are usually maintained year-round in many Target stores and online, though the selection is significantly reduced compared to peak season.

Color and Print Variety: Express Your Personal Style

Xhilaration bikinis are known for their vibrant color palette and diverse range of prints, offering options for virtually every aesthetic preference. Each seasonal collection typically includes:

Solid colors ranging from basic black and navy to bright neons and pastels. These solid pieces are particularly useful for mix-and-match styling and can serve as versatile basics in your swimwear collection.

Classic prints like stripes, polka dots, and florals, often with contemporary updates that keep them feeling fresh and on-trend. These timeless patterns have enduring appeal while still fitting within current fashion sensibilities.

Trend-specific prints that reflect broader fashion movements, which might include tropical motifs, animal prints, geometric patterns, tie-dye effects, or whatever pattern trends are currently popular.

Novelty prints featuring fun, unexpected elements like fruit, animals, or abstract artistic designs. These playful options particularly appeal to younger shoppers and those who enjoy making a statement with their swimwear.

Color blocking and contrast details that create visual interest through the strategic use of different colors within a single piece.

The wide variety of colors and prints available makes Xhilaration a good option for those who like to express their personality through their swimwear or who prefer to have multiple options for different moods and occasions.

Strapless and Bandeau Options: Versatility for Every Occasion

For those concerned about tan lines or who simply prefer the look of strapless swimwear, Xhilaration offers several bandeau and strapless options within their collections. These styles typically feature:

Classic bandeau tops that create a clean, minimal line across the chest. These often include removable padding for shape and modesty, and many include removable straps that can be added for additional support when needed.

Structured strapless tops with molded cups and underwire for those who require more support. These engineering features help the top stay in place without straps while providing shape and lift.

Multi-way styles that can be worn traditionally, as a halter, or as a bandeau by removing or reconfiguring the straps. These versatile options effectively give you multiple tops in one.

When shopping for Xhilaration bandeau or strapless styles, it’s particularly important to consider sizing, as these designs offer less forgiveness in fit than styles with adjustable straps. Many shoppers find sizing up helpful for strapless styles to ensure they stay in place comfortably.

It’s worth noting that while Xhilaration’s strapless options are designed to stay in place during casual beach or pool use, they may not provide sufficient security for active water sports or swimming in rougher conditions. For such activities, styles with secure straps are generally more reliable.

Maternity Options: Limited But Possible

When it comes to maternity-specific options, Xhilaration’s offerings are quite limited. As a junior-focused brand, Xhilaration does not typically design swimwear with pregnant women in mind, and you won’t find dedicated maternity styles within their line.

However, some expectant mothers have found certain Xhilaration styles workable for pregnancy, particularly:

Bikini tops with adjustable ties or stretchy material that can accommodate changing bust sizes. Triangle styles and halter tops with tie closures offer the most flexibility in this regard.

High-waisted bottoms with substantial stretch that can be worn below the bump in early to mid-pregnancy. Some women find these provide comfortable coverage while still accommodating their changing shape.

Tankini styles, when available in the Xhilaration line, can sometimes work for the early stages of pregnancy, though they typically aren’t designed with enough room for later stages.

For more dedicated maternity swimwear options, Target does offer maternity-specific swimsuits in other brands, particularly through their Isabel Maternity line, which features designs specifically engineered to accommodate pregnancy changes while maintaining style.

How Xhilaration Compares to Other Swimwear Brands

When evaluating Xhilaration against other swimwear options, it’s helpful to consider how it stacks up in several key categories:

In terms of price, Xhilaration sits at the budget-friendly end of the spectrum. At approximately $15-25 per piece, it’s significantly more affordable than mid-range brands like Roxy, Billabong, or Vineyard Vines (typically $40-60 per piece) and dramatically less expensive than premium brands like Gottex or Seafolly (often $80+ per piece).

For quality and durability, Xhilaration offers reasonable value for the price point. The materials and construction are generally appropriate for casual use, though they don’t match the longevity or technical performance of higher-end brands. While a premium swimsuit might last several seasons with proper care, Xhilaration pieces typically hold up well for one season of regular use, with some styles potentially lasting longer.

Regarding design and trends, Xhilaration excels at quickly incorporating current swimwear trends at accessible price points. While luxury brands might lead trend creation, Xhilaration is remarkably adept at translating runway and influencer styles into affordable versions, often making these looks available to a much broader audience.

For fit and sizing, Xhilaration offers a reasonable range, though not as extensive as some dedicated swimwear brands. The juniors’ focus means proportions are designed with younger shoppers in mind, which may not work as well for all body types.

In terms of sustainability, Xhilaration (like most fast fashion) falls short compared to eco-focused swimwear brands that use recycled materials or more sustainable production methods. However, Target has been making company-wide efforts to improve sustainability practices across their private labels.

Customer Feedback: What Real Wearers Think

Customer reviews of Xhilaration bikinis tend to fall into consistent patterns that highlight both strengths and limitations of the brand.

Positive feedback frequently mentions:

• The affordable price point that allows for seasonal wardrobe updates
• On-trend designs that look more expensive than they are
• The convenience of mix-and-match options
• Surprisingly good quality for the price
• The wide variety of colors and prints available

Constructive criticism often includes:

• Inconsistent sizing across different styles
• Padding in some tops that can become misshapen after washing
• Limited support in certain styles, particularly for larger bust sizes
• Durability issues with frequent wear, especially for ties and straps
• Thinner fabric than some shoppers expect

Overall satisfaction ratings on Target.com typically average between 3.5 and 4.5 stars out of 5 for most Xhilaration swimwear, with the higher-rated styles generally being those with more secure construction and classic designs.

Many reviewers note that they approach Xhilaration swimwear with appropriate expectations given the price point. Those who view these bikinis as affordable seasonal items rather than long-term investment pieces tend to report higher satisfaction.

Final Thoughts: Is Xhilaration Right for You?

After diving deep into all aspects of Xhilaration bikinis, it’s clear that this Target-exclusive swimwear line offers considerable value for trend-conscious shoppers on a budget. The combination of affordable pricing, diverse style options, and accessibility through Target’s extensive retail network makes Xhilaration an appealing option for many.

These bikinis are particularly well-suited for:

• Shoppers looking to try current swimwear trends without significant investment
• Those who like to refresh their swimwear collection each season
• People who appreciate the flexibility of mix-and-match separates
• Younger shoppers or those who prefer junior-oriented fits and designs
• Anyone seeking affordable options for occasional use or as backup swimwear

However, Xhilaration may be less ideal for:

• Those seeking premium materials and construction for long-term durability
• Shoppers who need specialized support or fit features
• Athletes requiring performance-focused swimwear
• Those at the upper end of or beyond Xhilaration’s size range

Ultimately, Xhilaration bikinis offer incredible value without compromising on design or durability, making fashion-forward swimwear accessible to a broad audience. By understanding both the strengths and limitations of this popular Target brand, you can make an informed decision about whether these affordable, trendy swimwear options deserve a place in your beach bag this summer.

Whether you’re splashing in the waves, lounging by the pool, or simply seeking the perfect Instagram-worthy beach look, Xhilaration provides options that balance style, function, and affordability in a way few other brands at this price point manage to achieve.