The 7 Most Flattering Plus-Size Swimwear for Your Best Summer Look Yet
Updated: Jan. 30, 2024
From on-trend one-pieces to easy-to-wear swim dresses, these are the best plus-size swimwear pieces to make you want to hit the pool ASAP.
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Just like shopping for plus-size shapewear and plus-size dresses, the best plus-size swimwear is notoriously difficult to find. They require an impeccable fit, quality materials and gorgeous silhouettes that help the wearer feel her best. Not to mention, plus-size swimwear that’s comfortable for one person might be a poor match for another. However, we’re here to take the guesswork out of shopping for the best swimsuitsâespecially if you’re looking for an extended size.
Whether you’re heading to a beach resort, a poolside cabana or your very own backyard, these comfortable, feel-good swimsuits have you sunbathing in style. To make these recommendations, we found the best plus-size swimsuit brands and researched their bestselling and top-rated styles, from tummy-control swimsuits to bikinis. Now all that’s left to do is snag your favorite swimsuit cover-up, sunglasses, sun hat, face sunscreen, beach towel and beach chairs, to prepare to hit the sand.
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Best overall plus-size swimwear
MiracleSuit Sanibel Underwire One-Piece
Simple, one-piece plus-size swimsuits are all the rage right now. This one-piece from MiracleSuit has built-in underwire cups and thick, adjustable straps to feel secure and supported in the bust area. It also has light ruching at the waist for a smoothing effect. Wear it with a billowy skirt or linen shorts and chic sandals, and you’ll look ready to hit the Riviera.
“The MiracleSuit is truly that. High-quality materials and construction that helps to hold everything up! Gave me the comfort confidence to walk outside in a bathing suit after decades of hiding under a caftan,” shares verified buyer on MiracleSuit’s website, Riana A. For more, check out our shopping expert’s MiracleSuit review.
Pros
- Available in sizes 16 to 24
- Cleavage-boosting cut
- Supportive underwire cups
- Has adjustable straps
Cons
- Only available in two colors
- Pricey
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Best value plus-size swimwear
Aqua Eve One-Piece Swimsuit
The best plus-size swimwear on Amazon isn’t a pricey designer option. This one-piece from Aqua Eve has an average 4.6 out of five stars from more than 6,500 shoppers. The suit features a high neckline and ruching at the waist, and is made of a quick-drying polyester-spandex blend. The flattering bathing suit boasts a thick material, supportive bust area and full-coverage cut.
“This suit was everything I hoped for and more. It is slimming and very flattering on my 54-year-old plus-size apple [-shaped] body. The stripes pulled attention up and away from my waist and it just fit perfectly. If you are trying to decide just do it!” writes five-star reviewer, Tracy Waugh. Like this? Check out more of our top picks for the best affordable Amazon swimsuits.
Pros
- Won’t break the bank
- Available in sizes 12 to 28
- Comes in 38 color and design options
- Has removable padding in cups
Cons
- Straps aren’t adjustable
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Best bikini plus-size swimwear
Elomi Plain Sailing Ruffle Underwire Bikini
Elomi’s bikini top is just as supportive as your favorite bra. It features an underwire, molded cups, adjustable straps and a thick band. The matching mid-rise bottoms offer full coverage in the back. The ruffled suit features Xtra Life Lycra and chlorine-resistant microfiber, meaning it’s ready for the water and will keep its shape over time. Wearing a bikini you feel good in is an excellent confidence trick for body positivity.
“So Iâm very large-chested and now pregnant on top of that. I was in tears after I tried this on. Not only is it cute it ACTUALLY fits. After buying so many tops that were too small and almost giving up before a vacation this seriously made my day,” shares five-star reviewer, Amanda.
Pros
- Features underwire cups
- Available in band sizes 34 to 44 and cup sizes DD to HH
- Has adjustable straps
- Material combats chlorine
Cons
- Bottoms sold separately
- Only available in two colors
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Best one-shoulder plus-size swimwear
Summersalt The Sidestroke
Summersalt’s line of affordable, sustainable and size-inclusive swimwear makes a real splash, and The Sidestroke suit is one of its bestsellers. Made of 78% recycled materials, this plus-size swimwear features diagonal seams and compressive qualities to keep everything snug and secure. Plus, it comes in 10 colors and designs (like the brand’s signature diagonal stripes) for a fashionable feel. Anyone else feel like showing off this one-piece at a beachfront hotel, like, now?
“If you want to feel like a million dollars in a suit, this one is for you! Support in all of the right places. Beautiful material and cut. I want all of the colors!” writes Melissa M., a verified buyer.
Pros
- One-shoulder is accompanied by diagonal seaming
- Available in sizes 0 to 24
- Available in 10 color options
- Partially made of recycled materials
Cons
- No bra cups or padding
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Best tankini plus-size swimwear
Lands’ End Square Neck Halter Tankini
Lands’ End plus-size swimsuits are made to last. Rendered from Xtra Life Lycra to resist breakdown from chlorine, sunscreen and sweat, this suit has the ability to last 10 times longer than ones made from spandex. The tankini design features an adjustable halter, molded bra cups and flattering ruching at the waist. The fabric also provides Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) 50 coverage from the sun’s rays. Mix-and-match bathing suit bottoms let you choose the style you feel fabulous in, whether on vacation or in your own backyard oasis.
“I have had this over a month. It was great in the pool and fits well. Very comfortable!” says five-star reviewer, Jean.
Pros
- Available in sizes 16 to 26
- UPF 50 coverage
- Chlorine-resistant fabric
Cons
- Top only available in two colors
- Bottoms sold separately
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Best swim dress plus-size swimwear
Swimsuits for All Twist Front V-Neck Swim Dress
Swimsuits for All is the one-stop shop for plus-size swimsuits, cover-ups, beachwear and more. The retailer offers items in a wide range of sizes so nearly everyone can rock the pieces. This printed swim dressâwith an attractive twist-front detail, a shelf bra, adjustable straps and a tummy control front liningâis ready to enjoy the sunshine. Choose from the seven vacation-approved patterns for a fun piece in your summer wardrobe.
“I am very self-conscious in a swimsuit normally. This suit is well-designed to conceal my wide hips and large tummy. It gives me the self-confidence to go out in public without feeling ashamed of myself. It’s a very attractive suit and well-designed for plus-size women,” writes Joan E., a verified purchaser.
Pros
- Has a flowy, A-line silhouette
- Available in sizes 8 to 34
- Has adjustable straps
- Includes wire-free molded cups
Cons
- Deep V-neck may not provide enough coverage for some
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Best trendy cut plus-size swimwear
Eloquii Mixed Media Cutout Swimsuit
Eloquii Mixed Media Cutout Swimsuit
If there’s one trend in plus-size swimsuits showing up everywhere this summer, it’s unique cutouts. This one-piece suit incorporates them tastefully with a midriff and side opening. The bodice comes fully lined (except for the sleeves), and includes a sling shell bra and removable foam cups. Get the matching cover-up pants to complete the ensemble.
“Super stylish and flattering! I get compliments every time I wear it. Definitely could be worn like a cute top with non-swim bottoms as well,” says Tresse, a verified purchaser.
Pros
- Has a cool cutout style
- Features puff sleeves with elastic cuffs
- Available in sizes 14 to 32
- Has a fully lined bodice
Cons
- Medium bust support
- Only available in one pattern
What to look for when buying plus-size swimwear
When looking for the best plus-size swimwear, there are a few things to consider:
- Fit: Look for a swimsuit that fits well and offers the support needed in all the right places. Consider the cut, such as if it’s a one-piece, tankini or bikini, and choose a style that suits your preference.
- Support: The best plus-size swimwear should provide adequate support, especially for those with larger busts. Look for swimsuits with built-in bras, underwire or adjustable straps for added support and comfort.
- Comfort: Speaking of comfort, make sure the new swimwear is comfortable to wear. Look for soft, stretchy material that moves with the body and isn’t too restrictive.
- Coverage: Consider the amount of coverage wanted in the new swimwear. Some may opt for more coverage in the stomach while others prefer to wear sleeves. Look for swimsuits with high-waisted bottoms, skirted bottoms or tummy-control panels for extra coverage.
- Budget: Figure out how much you’re willing to spend on the best plus-size swimwear to add to your collection this summer. Don’t forget to check out swimsuit sales to save some money!
How we found the best plus-size swimwear
As shopping experts, our only job is to help you find a winning product. We start with the research and reporting basicsâwhat products are made of, what they look like and how much they costâto ensure that weâre only recommending the buys that are worth your time and money. Then, we research the features that speak to the productâs quality, taking advice from industry insiders and subject matter experts on what makes a product a smart value (or worthy of a splurge). Finally, we do the work of combing through user reviews to see how real people interact with the product, and if it stands up to the test.
Originally Published: May 04, 2022
