How To Shop for Plus-Size Swimsuits

Swimsuit season is well underway, and the fun shows no signs of slowing down. Before fall arrives, our crystal ball predicts plenty of poolside hangs, weekend beach visits, and full-fledged vacation getaways in your future. 

To make the most of the warm weather while it lasts, you'll need the appropriate attire. If you haven't found a bathing suit that fits the bill yet, you may be putting off this often difficult task — or worse, going back to your go-to suit from two summers ago (the one that's faded, pilled, and completely shapeless).

Shopping for swimwear doesn't have to be a chore. All you have to do is go into the quest knowing what you want, whether that's knowing what kind of suit you want or simply picking which body parts you want to flaunt. 

You can avoid a headache later on by figuring out your tastes and preferences ahead of time. That's why we put together this awesome list of “do’s” to help you shop for swimwear.

Play With Prints and Colors on Plus-Size Swimwear

​​For women of all shapes and sizes, shopping for swimsuits can be stressful. It is essential to be aware of your body proportions and to highlight your favorite features. Confidence is key!

Color and patterns can create awesome silhouettes, whether you’re in high-waisted bottoms, a cover-up, or a stylish one-piece. It's not simply the shape of a swimsuit that matters: Color blocking and amusing patterns are two of the best ways to draw attention to your figure.

If you know whatever part of your body you want to flaunt, you'll be able to choose colors and patterns that hit just where you want them to land.

Try Mixing and Matching

Separates can greatly simplify your life. When you purchase a set, you're banking that both the bikini top and bikini bottom will fit you exactly — which isn't always the case. You can pick and select the characteristics that best complement each section of your body using separates until you find the perfect mix.

To find the perfect fit and the best support, don't be afraid to mix and match from different brands and retailers. If you have a hard time fitting the lower half of your body, you can mix in some different sizes (and brands) for a two-piece look. 

You can always pair one style of swim top with another style of swim bottom. Try combining a ruched plus-size tankini top with some swim shorts or a strappy v-neck bikini with ruffles and lingerie-style bottoms.

Own the Plus-Size One-Piece Swimsuits

How To Shop for Plus-Size Swimsuits

One-piece swimsuits don't have to be a last-ditch option. Sexy one-pieces with fascinating keyhole cutouts, crisscrosses, and trendy one-shoulder styles are a terrific way to flatter a variety of shapes. They offer full coverage, bust support, and tummy control, and they come in a wide variety of different neckline styles. You can find high-neck, scoop neck, and even strapless one-pieces — whatever floats your boat.

Not to mention, they're versatile enough to use as the basis for an ensemble and go directly to dinner without changing out of your suit.

There's nothing better than a gorgeous one-piece suit, it's great for better posture, a tighter shape, and overall stronger support. It's also ideal for snacks and drinks after a day at the beach. You'll feel covered enough to go to the bar with a pair of shorts or a long skirt, while still maintaining those beach day vibes.

Don’t Fear the Halter 

While not that popular, halter swimsuits are excellent — but they can create discomfort at the tie point if you have a larger chest. For increased support without the aches, look for a halter suit with an underwire bikini bottom.

If you don't like underwire, a thick, soft fabric strap might provide a comparable effect without poking or pinching. You might want to go with wider neck-straps as well for even more comfort.

How Can I Shop for a Plus-Sized Swimsuit Online? 

Online shopping can help you find the perfect swimwear in a variety of ways. Our step-by-step guide will assist you in selecting the ideal swimsuit for your summer vacation.

Get Social

Scrolling through Instagram is one way to see how different swimsuits fit different body types and skin tones. If you're shopping at a certain brand, look for its hashtag or in its official account’s tagged photos. That’s how you’ll figure out what that bandeau bikini top or shirred swim skirt you saw was.

You can even type "plus size swim dress" or “plus-size bikini” into the search bar (without the spaces if you're searching hashtags, obviously) to see a variety of options from multiple retailers across the globe. 

While you’re doing your research, remember that photoshop is extremely common online. Still, seeing these suits in the wild can help you figure out which fits you like best, whether that’s the retro color block look or a minimalist smocked one-piece.

Search Pinterest

​​Pinterest is a fantastic resource for discovering new businesses and styles. While you’ll find plenty of homemade tie-dye crochet swimsuits and twist-front swimsuit cover-up dresses for sale, you can also find swimsuits from brands like us.

The Pinterest platform is half-search engine and half-social network, helping customers browse more accurately than Instagram. Simply type the type of bathing suit you want into the search bar, and see what comes up.

Just like Instagram, you'll also be able to see how silhouettes and styles look on different body types. It's worth remembering that it's not just about how you look — it's also about how you feel. If a certain style appeals to you, go for it!

Read Size Charts

Now that you've found a brand and style of swimsuit that you love, check out their size guide. To guarantee that you purchase the correct size, you will need to take your measurements. Use a flexible tape measure like the kind you'd use to measure fabric and follow the instructions on the brand’s site. 

Each company has a somewhat distinct size range, and some even offer bespoke sizes. Because every woman is unique, knowing the brand and your size can help you make a more informed purchasing decision. Make sure to check your cup size, waist measurement, and other key factors before pulling the trigger.

Conclusion

How To Shop for Plus-Size Swimsuits

Now, it’s time to get shopping! Head over to our website, put on your favorite tunes, and get excited to try on all of our bestselling swimsuits once they arrive at your doorstep. 

Is there something that doesn't quite fit the way you want it to? Does it not feel like you? Then place it in the returns pile. You should only keep the swimsuits that make you happy. Instead of accumulating dust in the back of your closet, the rest can be returned with our fantastic return policy — because we know online shopping for swim is an art form, not a science.

With these helpful tricks, you will feel confident that you'll find the perfect swimsuit for your style when searching for swimsuits online. Simply stay true to yourself. 

It's important to remember that access to the ideal plus-size bathing suit isn't about what looks nice on other people — it's all about getting the ideal swimsuit that looks amazing on you and makes you feel fabulous.

Sources:

What are some different types of body shapes? | Medical News Today

How To Feel More Confident At The Beach | The Odyssey Online

What Are the Most Common Body Shapes? | Healthline