Finding the right plus size swimwear isn't just about colours and patterns – it's largely about fit, support, and feeling comfortable in your body. As a woman with curves, you deserve swimwear that both looks good and makes you feel good. However, it can be a challenge to find the perfect set that both supports and accentuates your best features.

We'll guide you through different cuts, support options, and style choices that suit curvy figures – from high-waisted bikinis and swimsuits with a shaping effect to tankinis with extra coverage. Whether you have a large bust, want extra support, or would like to emphasise your waist, you'll find inspiration and guidance here to choose swimwear that suits you.

Find Swimwear That Suits Your Body Shape

The first step is to consider your body shape and personal preferences. There's no one-size-fits-all solution – it's about what makes you feel comfortable.

Consider which areas you'd like to highlight and where you might want more support or coverage. Some feel most comfortable in a swimsuit, while others prefer the freedom of a bikini. The most important thing is to choose a fit that complements your figure and gives you confidence.

Swimwear Tips for Different Body Types

Apple Shape (Round Tummy and Less Defined Waist)

Swimwear with a shaping effect or draping can create a beautiful silhouette and provide good support. V-necklines and details under the bust draw the eye upwards and highlight the upper body. A loose tankini top combined with a fitted bottom provides both comfort and freedom of movement.



Best swimwear for apple shapes:

• Shaping swimsuit with built-in support
• V-neck swimsuit with ruching details
• Tankini with adjustable straps and a loose fit



Avoid:

• Tight-fitting swimwear without structure: This emphasises the tummy instead of shaping it. High necklines: These can make the upper body appear heavy and compact.
• Swimwear without support under the bust: This lacks lift and doesn't create balance in the figure.

Pear Shape (Full Hips and Thighs)

If you have more fullness below and a narrower upper body, you can create balance with swimwear that highlights the upper body. For example, choose patterned tops and more subdued bottoms. A halterneck top lifts and gathers the bust, while high-waisted briefs provide support and shape the figure.



Best swimwear for pear shapes:

• Patterned halterneck bikini top
• Solid coloured, high-waisted bikini briefs
• Swimsuit with a colour-block effect



Avoid:

• Dark or simple tops without details: This can make shoulders and bust less prominent and reinforce the imbalance.
• Swimwear with many details on the hips and thighs: E.g., skirts, ruffles, or large prints, which attract attention there.
• Low-rise bikini briefs: These can cut in unflatteringly and make the hips appear wider.

Hourglass Shape (Balanced Hips and Shoulders, Defined Waist)

If you have a defined waist and proportionate shapes, you can choose swimwear that emphasises your curves. Fitted styles with a focus on the waist – such as wrap details or cuts that follow the body's shape – suit you very well. You can also go for plunging necklines or high-cut legs, which emphasise your figure in a flattering way.



Best swimwear for hourglass shapes:

• Bikini with high-waisted briefs and a supportive top
• Swimsuit with a defined waist or wrap effect
• Retro-inspired swimsuit with a high-cut leg

Avoid:

• Loose or boxy cuts: These hide the natural curves and can make the figure appear boxy. Swimwear without waist focus: This blurs the defined waist.
• Excessive padding in the bust: This can disrupt the balance between the upper and lower body.

Support for a Large Bust – Yes, Please!

If you have a larger bust, you know how important good support and comfort are – especially in swimwear. A well-fitting top makes a huge difference to both appearance and well-being. Fortunately, there are many stylish solutions that combine form and function.



What to Look For

When choosing swimwear for a larger bust, it's a good idea to look for styles with:

• Underwire and moulded cups: Lifts and shapes the bust.
• Wider straps: Reduces pressure on the shoulders.
• Adjustable closures: Provides flexibility and a better fit.
• Higher centre front or neckline: Provides extra support and coverage.



Best Swimwear for a Larger Bust

Bikini Tops with Underwire

A bikini top with underwire works a bit like a good bra. It lifts and shapes the bust and provides the necessary support. Many styles also have wide straps and adjustable closures, making them more comfortable to wear – even for hours.



Balconette Bikini

The balconette style has a straight cut and built-in underwire, which provides a nice lift and a round, feminine shape. It's particularly suitable if you want to highlight your cleavage in a stylish way.



Halterneck Bikini

Halterneck bikinis gather and lift the bust with straps that tie at the neck. For extra comfort, it's a good idea to choose a style with wide or padded straps so they don't dig into the skin – especially if you wear them for a long time.



Triangle Bikini

Triangle bikinis can certainly work for a larger bust – it's just about choosing the right style. Look for a version with more fabric, good support under the bust, and tie straps that can be adjusted so you can customise the fit.



Swimsuit with Built-in Support

Swimsuits are a fantastic choice when you want both comfort and coverage. Choose a style with a sewn-in underwire, an elastic band under the bust (also called a shelf bra), or another form of built-in support. Many swimsuits for larger busts also have shaping lining and wide straps, which give a flattering look while providing good support.



Tankini

A tankini combines the coverage of a swimsuit with the flexibility of a bikini. You get a top that covers the tummy but can still be matched with different bottoms. To prevent the top from just feeling like a loose t-shirt in the water, it's important to choose a style with underwire or built-in bra support.

Comfort is Just as Important as Support

Swimwear should be snug – but not tight. If it's too loose, you lose support; if it's too small, it feels uncomfortable. Use our size guide and move around a bit when you try it on at home. The best swimwear is the kind you hardly notice because it supports the right places – without compromising on comfort.

Flattering Cuts and Designs

Swimwear shouldn't just be practical – it should also make you feel beautiful. Here are some popular design elements and trends that highlight your curves in the best possible way:

• High-waisted cuts: Covers the tummy, emphasises the waist, and provides a retro-inspired figure with good support.
• Draping and ruching: Creates visual smoothness and elegance – especially around the tummy.
• Necklines and lines: V-neck, halterneck, and high-cut legs can lengthen and balance the body.
• Colours and patterns: Go for prints, stripes, florals, or animal prints – black isn't your only option!
• Swim dresses and skirts: Feminine, comfortable, and still swim-friendly – perfect if you want to feel a little more covered up.