By That Girl Whitney Team
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Swimsuit shopping can feel like the hardest kind of shopping there is. Fitting room lighting does nobody any favors, and online photos rarely show how a suit fits a body that looks like yours. For plus size women, the struggle often comes down to two problems: finding enough support up top and finding coverage you feel good about down below.
The truth is that no single swimsuit works for every body. A suit that looks amazing on a pear shape can feel awkward on an apple shape, and a suit with great bust support might ride up on a long torso. When you know your body type and your priorities, the search gets much shorter.
Start by asking yourself what matters most. You might want enough support to chase kids around the pool, or tummy coverage so you can relax on a lounge chair. Some days the goal is simply feeling cute at a beach bar. Each goal points you toward a different style.
This guide breaks down the swimsuit styles that tend to work best for common plus size body types, then covers sizing and support so your suit stays comfortable from the first swim to the last. If you shop from Canada, double-check whether a retailer ships to you before you order.
Swimsuits for Apple and Tummy-Conscious Shapes
If you carry more weight through your middle, look for suits that draw the eye up and give you gentle shaping through the stomach.
Ruched one-pieces use gathered fabric across the middle to smooth and soften. The gathers hide what you’d rather not highlight and look flattering in photos.
Tankinis give you the coverage of a one-piece with the convenience of two pieces. Pair a longer, flowy tankini top with a high-waist bottom for full coverage.
Swim dresses add a short skirt that skims the hips and thighs. They’re great for anyone who wants more coverage without feeling covered up.
Look for suits labeled with “tummy control” or a power mesh lining. That inner layer gives you smoothing without the squeeze of shapewear.
Shop it: Aqua Eve tummy control one-piece or Blooming Jelly swim dress
Swimsuits for Pear and Hourglass Shapes
If your hips are wider than your bust, or your bust and hips are close in size with a defined waist, you can show off your shape.
High-waist bikinis highlight your waist and give the bottom half full coverage. Pair them with a supportive top and you have a retro look that works on most hourglass and pear bodies.
Wrap-style one-pieces cinch at the waist and create a V-neckline that balances wider hips. They’re a great middle ground if you want a one-piece with shape.
For pear shapes, a top with ruffles or a bold print draws attention up. Pair it with a solid, darker bottom to keep the look balanced.
Shop it: Yonique high-waisted bikini or Daci tankini with shorts
Support for Bigger Busts
If you wear a larger cup size, support is the first thing to check, before color or print.
Look for suits sized by bra size or cup size, not just dress size. Brands that sell swimwear this way give you a much closer fit through the bust. An underwire top with adjustable straps holds you in place better than a padded bandeau ever will.
Wider straps matter too. Thin straps dig into your shoulders and leave red marks after a day at the pool. Look for straps at least an inch wide, and check whether they adjust or convert to a crossback.
If you plan to swim laps or chase kids, choose a suit with a higher neckline and a secure band under the bust. Halter tops look cute but can strain your neck after a few hours.
Shop it: underwire tankini top
Getting the Size and Fit Right
Swimsuit sizing varies widely from brand to brand, so don’t rely on the size you wear in jeans.
Measure your bust, waist, hips, and torso, then compare those numbers to each brand’s size chart. If you fall between sizes, read the reviews to see whether the suit runs small or large.
Pay attention to torso length. If you’re tall or long-waisted, one-pieces may pull on your shoulders or ride up. Look for “long torso” options, or switch to a tankini so you can adjust the fit. Our tall plus size clothing guide has more fit tips for long torsos.
Before you remove the tags, test the fit at home. Squat down and lift your arms overhead. A good suit stays in place through every move. Check each retailer’s swimwear return policy too, since many only accept returns with the hygiene liner still attached.
Finding a Suit You Love Wearing
The best plus size swimsuit is the one that makes you forget you’re wearing it. When you match the style to your body and your plans for the day, you’ll spend less time adjusting straps and more time enjoying the water. Start with support, then choose a style that suits your shape.
Once your suit is ready, plan the rest of your poolside look. Our guide to plus size beach cover-ups covers easy layers for the walk from the water to lunch.
Shop Whitney’s favorite plus size finds on her Amazon storefront. Follow @thatgirlwhitney on Instagram for more plus size outfit ideas.
