Warm temperatures are on the way, so it’s time to start thinking about spring break, summer vacations, and making poolside memories (while wearing plenty of sunscreen). However, the season ahead can also spark angst and negative dialogue about “summer bodies” and the feeling of not being perfect enough to wear a swimsuit.
Due to some health issues, I’ve gained weight in my chest and hips, and finding a swimsuit that makes me feel confident has been an uphill battle. Once I found the right fit that complemented my shape (a Brandon Blackwood two-piece that’s tragically out of stock), I instantly felt like myself again.
In an effort to shelve negative self-talk before it starts, we’re sharing swimsuits that serve and celebrate curvy bodies. Read on for PEOPLE’s top picks for the best swimsuits for curvy women, according to experts, editors, testing, and research.
Andie Swim is popular among celebrities and stylists alike: Even Mindy Kaling launched a collab with this swimwear brand last year. This Andie one-piece swimsuit is one of my favorites because it seamlessly lifts and sculps, making me stand taller and feel like a ’90s supermodel! The open back, crisscross straps, and removable soft cups feel comfortable and supportive without being too tight or restrictive. It comes with two fabric options, but I prefer the smooth fabric over ribbed for a sleeker look.
You also have options in torso length with the ability to choose between “classic” and “long torso”. The swimsuit has a wide size range and comes in a variety of bold colors like Cherry Red and Navy. If you go for the white one-piece, give it some ’90s flair with an oversized, cotton button-down like this one from Ann Taylor Loft.
Sizes: XS (0-2)–3XL (20-22) | Materials: 82% nylon, 18% spandex | Care: Hand-wash, lay flat to dry | Colors: Black, Cherry Red, White, Navy, Papaya | Fabric: Eco-Nylon and Ribbed
Former editor turned stylist Ashley Afriyie tells PEOPLE she scouts swimsuits that allow for coverage in areas of insecurity and that emphasize your favorite body parts, as well as finding “the perfect color.” Wearing black to the beach might feel like a drab choice, but Afriyie says black is always a “do” because it looks great on everyone.
A reviewer favorite is this one-shoulder Cupshe suit boasting an asymmetrical neckline, ruched fabric, and tummy control support. These are all the design elements Afriyie says can make a swimsuit ultra-flattering on a curvy frame. This piece also comes with removable soft cups and is an excellent option for anyone seeking medium bust support and full coverage for your rear.
Sizes: XS–XL | Materials: 80% nylon, 20% spandex | Care: Machine wash on a cold, delicate cycle, and line dry | Colors: Black
If you’re looking for a versatile one-piece swimsuit in a variety of flattering prints and colors, the Brinlee Contour from Adore Me is your suit for summer. The convertible neck tie transitions from a halter to a high-neck deep plunge, and the center-front keyhole is just sexy enough for those who want to show a little skin but with the tummy coverage of a one-piece. Two adjustable hook-and-loop straps on the back allow you to get the perfect fit, while the v-back adds a fun twist to traditional straight-across swimsuit bottoms.
Editors Say
“While most reviewers say this swimsuit runs true to size, I actually wish I would have gone up a size for a more flattering and comfortable fit.”—Kayla Kitts, shopping editor
Sizes: XS-XL | Materials: 85% recycled nylon, 15% spandex | Colors: 4 colors, 9 prints
For budget-friendly one-pieces, Old Navy is one of Afriyie’s favorite brands. “They have extended sizing, and you can’t beat the price,” she says. If you want a fun print with chest support, this one-piece comes in five patterns. With a plunging V-neck, cross-back straps, removable pads, and an adjustable hook closure, this suit is sexy and supportive. The sizing options are plentiful — ranging from XS to 4X — and reviewers say it runs true to size, so you don’t have to worry about making multiple exchanges.
Sizes: XS–4X | Materials: 83% recycled polyester, 17% spandex | Care: Hand wash | Colors: Brown Animal Print, White Palm Print, Warm Sunset, Wild Pink Cheetah, and Black Jack
This PEOPLE-tested pick brings a vintage elegance to the two-piece swimsuit. Sized up to 22 plus, with 44 color options, the Tempt Me Women double-layered suit was a favorite among our testers. We found the material to be thick, soft, and durable, with a nice amount of compression to keep everything in place. As for the fit, testers found this suit was well structured, provided excellent coverage, and accentuated hourglass shapes to a tee. And it offers plenty of ruching to mask parts of your body you’re less comfortable with.
Size range: XXS–22 Plus | Material: 82% nylon, 18% spandex | Care: Hand wash | Colors: 44
If you feel self-conscious about your stomach, this high-waisted swimsuit bottom is an ideal silhouette. Not only does it sit just above your stomach so it’s not visible, it has ruching to add texture and draw the eye away from anything you’d rather be out of sight.
Editors Say
“The material is buttery-soft and I love the colors, especially the bright orange for summer.”—Madison Yauger, shopping editor
Sizes: XS–XL | Materials: 50% pre-consumer recycled nylon, 29% nylon, 21% elastane | Colors: Florence Orange, Unapologetic Pink, Unapologetic (floral) | Fabric: Recycled, Water Resistant Properties, SolarGuard 50+
Our team tested these swimsuit bottoms, which earned high marks for their stretchy, durable, and body-molding fabrics. There are seven color options and a size range that goes up to 4X. And if you’re peeking at the matching top, we’ll caution you: While it has a secure band, with plenty of stretch, and moves with the body without slippage, it might not provide satisfactory coverage for larger breasts.
Sizes: XXS–4X | Materials: 76% recycled nylon, 24% spandex | Care: Hand wash, hang to dry | Colors: 7
These sculpting, activity-approved bikini bottoms are so flattering, PEOPLE Associate Editorial Director Erin Johnson swears by them. Bonus: They’re available in 25 vibrant colors including neons like red, yellow, and pink.
Editors Say
“I heard some women talking about these “Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” bikini bottoms (meaning they look great on everyone) and knew I had to try them. I cannot stress my obsession with these enough. The high-cut leg, the compressive center, the overall look — Left on Friday really nailed it with this one.” —Erin Johnson, associate editorial director
Sizes: XS–XXL | Material: 56% nylon, 32% polyester, 16% Lycra | Care: Machine wash cold, hang to dry | Colors: 25
If you’re ready to show a little extra skin, this Relleciga thong swimsuit is the perfect cheeky style. The adjustable straps allow swimmers (or sunbathers with SPF, of course) a more customized fit. This one-piece swimsuit has such a classic silhouette, so we love that it’s available in 44 different colors and prints. Since it’s so budget-friendly, you could grab a few different colors for your next beach vacation.
Sizes: S-XXL | Materials: 80% polyamide, 20% spandex | Care: Hand wash, line dry | Colors: 44
Aerie bras are shopper favorites for the high quality and attention to detail, which is also extended to the brand’s swimwear. Made with 80-percent recycled nylon (saved from leftover fiber scraps), this bikini top offers a sustainable choice that will make you feel like the best version of yourself at the beach or relaxing by the pool. It has UPF 50 sun protection, wide adjustable straps, and incredible underwire support that has garnered praise from shoppers with large chests. And for bottoms: The high-cut cheeky bottoms are a paired favorite, so go ahead and add them to your cart, too.
Sizes: 32A–36DD | Materials: 80% recycled nylon, 20% elastane | Care: Hand wash | Colors: True Black
If you have a larger chest and are on the hunt for the perfect LBB (little black bikini), Bravissimo has you covered, literally and figuratively. Given the extensive cup size range, it’s easy to find a swimsuit that fits your chest and actually covers and supports it.
Editors Say
“I love the structured design of this bikini top! Plus, it’s made from sustainable fabrics and looks amazing on!”—Madison Yauger
Sizes: (Band) 30–38 (Cup) E–K | Materials: 80% polyamide, 20% elastane | Care: Machine wash on a gentle cycle | Colors: Black
Spanx pioneered shapewear, and now you can get their shapewear technology in a swimsuit. This editor-loved one-piece has the brand’s signature double-layer fabric which our team found to be supportive and seamless. This Spanx swimsuit provides a high-quality and sturdy feel, while offering non-restrictive comfort.
Sizes: XS–3X | Materials: 91% nylon, 9% Lycraâ® elastane | Care: Hand wash cold, lay flat to dry | Colors: Tropical Turquoise, Very Black, Mulberry
This bikini top from Carve Designs is supportive without feeling restrictive. If you’re a curvy woman who prefers the feel of a wireless bra, like Erin Johnson, then you’ll love this top.
Editors Say
“I live in Hawai’i (where swimsuits double as clothing), and I wear this swim top multiple times a week. It’s my go-to for diving, swimming, laying out, or even just running across the street for a coffee.” —Erin Johnson
Sizes: XS–XL | Materials: 82% recycled polyester, 18% spandex | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low | Colors: 10
When a product goes viral on social media, it’s not always easy to discern whether it is truly worth the hype. However, this PEOPLE-loved suit lives up to every positive review. Whether you’ve got an hourglass figure (a proportionate top and bottom with a smaller waist) or want the illusion of an hourglass figure, TA3’s Swim Lifty one-piece hugs your curves tightly to create this shape. Featuring underwire and TA3’s signature waist-snatching shaping panels and lacing, your curves will be the main event.
Sizes: XS–4X, (Cup) A, B/C, D/DD, F/G, H/I, (Length) short, reg/long, x-long| Materials: 75% nylon, 25% spandex | Care: Hand wash, lay flat to dry | Colors: 6
Anyone with a long torso (myself included) knows it can be a difficult task to find a swimsuit — and that’s before adding curves to the mix. But J. Crew, another favorite of Afriyie’s, offers many of their suits in “classic” and “long torso” lengths.
This one-piece, made with recycled nylon and elastane, features built-in UPF 50 sun protection, and removable padding and straps. Plus, it’s a great choice for us curvy women because it has ruching which provides better stomach coverage than flat materials.
Sizes: 0–24 classic, 0–16 long torso | Materials: 82% recycled nylon, 18% elastane | Care: Hand wash | Colors: 14
Mara Hoffman is another top recommendation by Afriyie because the brand offers some swimwear in extended sizing and has “great shape.” This new custom floral Olea printed bikini top is fully lined and features a scoop neckline and wide straight back straps (great for supporting fuller busts). For sizes XL-3X, the top has an interior shelf bra for additional support. You can grab the matching bottoms, too, which have a high-waist cut and moderate coverage.
Sizes: XS–3X | Materials: 49% recycled nylon, 32% nylon, 19% elastane | Care: Hand-wash | Colors: Multi-print
This flattering two-piece swimsuit from Adore Me is truly meant for every body. With sizes ranging from XS to 4X, plus band and cup sizes from 30A to 46H, you’re almost guaranteed to get the perfect fit for your curvy body. You can also choose between a bikini cut or a high-waisted design. You can grab this set in one of seven trendy floral prints that are perfect for summer.
Editors Say
“The ruching within the high-waisted bottom even provides some tummy control for those who desire a little more coverage in their two-piece. And if you’re looking for breast support, the underwire design delivers.”—Kayla Kitts
Sizes: XS-4X, 30A-46H | Materials: 85% recycled nylon, 15% spandex (body), 100% polyester (lining) | Care: Not listed | Colors: 7 prints
This suit is a winner for nursing moms because it provides maximum bust support (with removable soft cups) and an adjustable seven-snap button front (ideal for breastfeeding access). It also has sculpting, compressive fabric which could provide more coverage for new moms adjusting to postpartum bodies. You can snag this suit in a “classic fit” or “long torso.”
Sizes: XS–3X | Materials: 80% recycled nylon and 20% spandex | Fabric: Smooth and Ribbed | Care: Hand-wash, Lay flat to dry | Colors: 7
Wearing a swimsuit can be daunting for anyone — the fitted and normally shiny fabric can highlight every little bump, roll, and dimple on your body. This J.Crew swimsuit prevents that with ruched texture at the tummy section and a one-shoulder design that lengthens your torso, drawing the eye up.
Editors Say
“I love the ruching effect on this one-piece swimsuit from J.Crew: It’s an optical illusion of sorts that becomes the star of the show, helping to smooth out your tummy area. Plus, the one-shoulder design is so cute!”—Erika Reals, senior shopping editor
Size Range: 0-24 | Materials: 82% recycled nylon, 18% elastane | Colors: 11
This chic suit will garner tons of compliments and can easily be paired with a white, high-waisted, flowy pant to take you straight from a resort brunch to the pool. The ruffled-adorned one-piece has built-in soft cups for extra coverage with a deep V-neck and an open back. You don’t have to worry about keeping your chest in place or adjusting your swimsuit throughout the day because the brand’s signature compression fabric will keep everything secure!
Sizes: 2–22 | Materials: 78% recycled polyamide, 22% elastane | Care: Hand wash, dry flat | Colors: 14
As if its flattering design (which still shows some skin, but not too much) wasn’t enough to love, this swimsuit has some serious shaping power, as well. It makes sense that Lizzo’s company is the one to make a shaping swimsuit that’s actually cute, and this one is bound to make you feel confident, too.
Editors Say
“Its smoothing compression fabric acts as light shapewear without sacrificing comfort and the adjustable bra includes removable padding for customized wear.”—Alyssa Brascia, shopping writer
Sizes: XS–6X | Materials: 67% nylon, 33% elastane | Colors: 4
Andrea Iyamah is among my top three swimwear brands. Not only do the suits fit my long torso and curves to perfection, but I always get compliments when I wear any of her pieces. I recommend checking the size chart under each style for your best fit — and with this suit, size up! The size chart is accurate, but you can take your measurements to ensure you get an ideal fit. This one-shoulder is among my favorites because it sculpts the waist while the molded, underwire cups lift the chest, and the adjustable shoulder strap can be worn in multiple ways to bring some oomph.
Sizes: XS–XXL | Materials: 80% nylon, 20% spandex | Care: Hand wash | Colors: Wine, Chocolate, Sand, and Ruby
What to Know About Swimsuits for Curvy Women
Look for Spandex-Type Materials
Material matters when it comes to a swimsuit’s fit, just like every other type of clothing. Afriyie says the best material for swimsuits is a polyester/elastane blend, which is essentially spandex. “Swimsuits should fit snugly, but you don’t want them to fit too tight,” she says.“You shouldn’t feel restricted, but want to make sure you’re 100 percent covered when jumping into a pool [or] in the ocean.”
Built-In Shapewear is Key
Shapewear isn’t just for underneath your clothes. “If you are looking for comfort or want to enhance your shape, opt for swimwear styles equipped with shapewear technology,” Fashion expert and body confidence coach Gabrielle Richards tells PEOPLE. Shapewear technology includes options like the Spanx Pique Shaping Plunge One-Piece, whose textured material offers 360 degrees of shaping. Additionally, swimsuits with compression and tummy control can shape the body.
Consider Style and Support
Our experts told us that high-waisted swimwear styles always flatter curvy bodies. Want to take that up a notch? Add ruching. “[Ruching] creates an illusion that the [tummy] you’re trying to hide is not there and that it’s the material,” says Afriyie. “There is a reason why women from the 40s and 50s had so much “sex appeal” in their high-waisted halter suits.”
Underwire in swimwear? Absolutely! Afriyie also suggests looking for swimsuits with underwire and adjustable straps for large busts. “I need support no matter what,” she says. “[Additionally,] I find styles like halter tops, one-shoulders, underwire bikini tops, and one-piece suits work the best for my chest and my “busty” girlfriends.”
Price Varies Across Swimsuits
The pricing of swimwear varies greatly. Our picks range from $27 to $230! It can definitely be worth it to invest in a quality swimsuit that boosts your confidence with each wear like the Andrea Iyamah Nisi One-Piece Swimsuit, but you can also find great options, like the Old Navy Tie-Back One-Piece Swimsuit, without spending so much. Swimsuit must-haves will look different for everyone, so you just have to make the best choice for you and your budget.
Add to Cart
Neutrogena PureScreen+ Mineral UV Tint Face Liquid With Vitamin E
If you’re spending a day by the pool, we recommend adding a good facial sunscreen to your cart. We conducted extensive research on the best facial sunscreens for daily wear, and this tinted Neutrogena sunscreen offers good coverage as well as SPF protection. It comes in four shades and can be layered over or under makeup, given its sheer formula. Not to mention it has beneficial skincare ingredients and is waterproof for hours of pool-side leisure.
Clarks Breeze Sea Flip Flop
What swimsuit is complete without flip flops? In testing the best flip flops for women, we grew smitten with these velcro-adjusted sandals. They’re easy to slip on, like most flip flops, but have a really durable and comfortable design that mimics more functional types of shoes. During testing, these sandals earned perfect scores for having a chafe-proof fabric, thicker cushioning, and solid durability — which held up over five months of additional testing.
Decomen Microfiber Beach Towel
A beach day is incomplete without a quality beach towel, and the Decomen Microfiber towel took our top spot during testing. This beach towel is ideal for a trip to the beach because it comes with a compact carrying case for easy storage. The microfiber is absorbent but dries quickly, and proved to be sand-resistant — our tester’s car remained sand-free. Plus, it’s incredibly budget-friendly.
Why Trust PEOPLE?
Bianca Lambert is a contributing freelance writer for PEOPLE who specializes in beauty and travel writing. She’s well-versed in trending topics, such as the in’s and out’s of the best vitamin C serums and John Legend’s skincare line. For this story, Bianca used her own personal experience with swimsuits as a guide to find the best options for fit and style (not forgetting price). She also pulled from tested insights provided by the PEOPLE team, and interviewed fashion stylist Ashley Afriyie and body confidence coach Gabrielle Richards on what to consider when buying swimsuits for curvy women. PEOPLE staff writers and editors later updated this story with their respective favorite swimsuits for curvy women, too.
Our Expert Panel
- Ashley Afriyie is a former fashion editor turned stylist with over a decade of experience in luxury fashion. She’s worked with mega brands like Gucci, Saks Fifth Avenue, and more, while contributing to looks such as Anne Hathaway’s gorgeous style at the 2023 Met Gala.
- Gabrielle Richards is a fashion expert, body confidence coach, and brand director for Shapermint and the BodyCon. The BodyCon is a confidence series and Shapermint is a clothing brand that focuses on body confidence with shapewear, swimwear, intimates, and more.