Tech & Gear Luggage The 12 Best Plus-Size Swimsuits of 2022 By Erika Owen Erika Owen Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter Erika Owen is a self-proclaimed Professional Iceland Enthusiast, covering everything from boutique hotels to ATV tours. She's also a product reviewer who's tested out everything from airplane pillows to travel adapters for TripSavvy. TripSavvy's editorial guidelines Updated on 01/10/23 Share Pin Email We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. No matter what size you wear, shopping for a swimsuit can be a loaded task. And when you identify as plus size, your pool of options gets smaller. The unfortunate reality is that many designers and brands haven’t yet extended sizing past a size 10 or 12—but we’re here to celebrate the ones that acknowledge that beach days and pool parties are for every single body out there. No matter your body shape, there is a world of options out there—cheeky cut bottoms, bikinis, one-pieces, underwire, swim leggings, and swim dresses, not to mention the emergence of sustainably-made swimsuits. We pulled together the best plus-size swimsuits out there, taking note of fit, price range, and materials used. We also consulted a couple of especially inspiring and stylish influencers to share their favorite designs. The Rundown Best One-Piece: L.L.Bean BeanSport Print Tanksuit at L.L.Bean Jump to Review Best Bottoms: Summersalt Mid Rise Bottom at Summersalt.com Jump to Review Best Strapless: Swimsuits for All High-Waist Bikini at Swimsuitsforall.com Jump to Review Best Two-Piece: Nomads Top and Bottom at Nomadsswimwear.com Jump to Review Best Cut-Out: Frankies Bikinis One-Piece Swimsuit at Frankiesbikinis.com Jump to Review Best High-Neck: Andie Swim The Malibu at Andieswim.com Jump to Review Best Swim Dress: Eloquii Romper Swimsuit at Eloquii.com Jump to Review Best V-Neck: Nettle's Tale Swimsuit at Nettlestale.com Jump to Review Best Underwire: Swimsuits for All Underwire Bikini Set at Swimsuitsforall.com Jump to Review Best Swim Leggings: Torrid Capri Swim Legging at Torrid.com Jump to Review Table of contents Expand Our Picks What to Look For FAQ Why Trust TripSavvy Best One-Piece L.L.Bean BeanSport Print Tanksuit L.L. Bean View On L.L.Bean What We Like Stays in place Fabric is sun-, chlorine-, and heat-resistant What We Don't Like Leg openings lack elasticity There's nothing better than a swimsuit that never goes out of style. Corinne Fay, the founder of the plus-size Instagram resale account @SellTradePlus, has a suggestion for just this: "Some might call it basic, but I prefer to think of it as CLASSIC," she says. "The L.L.Bean Beansport Tanksuit goes up to a size 26, it's pretty affordable, it holds up well, and you won't be tugging on it all day at the pool and/or beach. I love a cute swimsuit, but what I love even more is a swimsuit that fits and doesn't have me stressing or uncomfortable." Price at time of publication: $60 Sizes: 18 to 26 | Materials: 80 percent nylon, 20 percent Lycra Xtra Life (body), 95 percent polyester, 5 percent spandex (front) | Sustainability: N/A Best Bottoms Summersalt The Diagonal Mid Rise Bottom Courtesy of Summersalt View On Summersalt.com What We Like Mix and match pieces Compressive What We Don't Like Thin fabric The simple design on these mid-rise bottoms from Summersalt is easy to pair with a solid-colored top, or you can take it up a few levels with a pattern. What we’re really saying: there are a lot of styling opportunities here. Available in sizes 2 through 22 and in seven color combinations, these bottoms are classified as “C Coverage” by the brand, meaning they offer the most coverage. Price at time of publication: $45 Sizes: 2 to 22 | Materials: 78 percent recycled polyamide, 22 percent elastane | Sustainability: Recycled materials Best Strapless Swimsuits for All Valentine High-Waist Bikini Swimsuits for All View On Swimsuitsforall.com What We Like Versatile Thoughtful sizing options What We Don't Like Hand wash only This strapless bikini has just the right amount of retro flair with its twisted top and high-waisted, ruched bottoms. Available in sizes 4 through 28, this suit from Swimsuits for All comes in six colors, all with removable straps because some days call for more support. You can even choose your top and bottom in different sizes to get the perfect fit. Price at time of publication: $106 for set Sizes: 4 to 28 | Materials: 82 percent nylon, 18 percent spandex | Sustainability: N/A Best Two-Piece Nomads Swimwear Current Top and Bottom Nomads View On Nomadsswimwear.com View On Nomadsswimwear.com What We Like Simple but eye-catching Good coverage on bottom What We Don't Like May ride up on active days Nomads Swimwear is a size-inclusive brand that is founded by model Taylor Paige Long, offering XS through 5X in all styles. The Current Top and Bottom is a classic black-and-white suit with a cheeky-cut, high-waisted bottom, and a square neckline top. The thicker straps offer great support, while the suit’s fabric protects against harmful UV rays and provides an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of 50+. But don’t forget to use your favorite sunscreen. Price at time of publication: $75 for top Sizes: XS to 5X | Materials: 81 percent nylon, 19 percent elastane | Sustainability: N/A Best Cut-Out Frankies Bikinis Carter One-Piece Swimsuit Frankies Bikinis View On Frankiesbikinis.com What We Like Versatile wear Unique What We Don't Like Not ideal for larger busts The substantial cut-out on this one-piece swimsuit gives the whole look a mod upgrade. The straps are removable so that you can adjust the amount of support. The soft, stretchy fabric is one of the biggest perks. Price at time of publication: $180 Sizes: XS to XXL | Materials: 88 percent nylon, 12 percent spandex | Sustainability: N/A The Best One-Piece Swimsuits to Fit Any Style Best High-Neck Andie Swim The Malibu Andie View On Andieswim.com View On Dia.com View On Hsn.com What We Like Long torso option Great for large busts What We Don't Like Cut is not for everyone "I'm so over swimsuits that are uncomfy and only on trend for one summer," says Sean Taylor, whom you may recognize from the Netflix show The Circle or Instagram, where she's constantly serving up inspirational looks. "The versatility of The Malibu by Andie is what's making it my go-to this season. Easily transition from secure coverage to a flirty body-suit dupe when you unsnap a few buttons and throw on shorts for a shore-side happy hour." Price at time of publication: $98 Sizes: XS to XXXL | Materials: 82 percent nylon, 18 percent spandex | Sustainability: N/A Best Swim Dress Eloquii Wrap-Front Romper Swimsuit Eloquii View On Eloquii.com What We Like Dynamic and stylish Built-in one piece What We Don't Like Small cups Ok, we tricked you a little bit here—our favorite swim dress is not a swim dress at all—it’s a romper. We love this style because it offers more coverage and movement if you plan on wrestling with some waves (or pool floaties). Available up to size 28 and in two colors, this suit is a magical option that looks just as great at the beach bar or even out to dinner. Sizes: Up to size 28 | Materials: (Body) 95 percent nylon, 5 percent polyester; (panty) 80 percent nylon, 20 percent spandex | Sustainability: N/A Best V-Neck Nettle's Tale The Margaret Nettle's Tale View On Nettlestale.com What We Like Great for smaller busts Cheeky, high-cut bottoms What We Don't Like Few color options "My current favorite swimsuit is the Margaret from Nettle's Tale," says Lydia Okello, model, writer, digital creator, and one of the people featured in "Well Rounded," a documentary focused on sharing experiences in body positivity from the big, fat, queer, and BIPOC community. (Watch the trailer here.) "I'm smitten with this style because it's skimpy, vibrant, and reminds me of beach babes of the early 90s. I'm hoping Nettle's Tale expands the sizing—I find the XL comfy on my typically 20-22 [sized] bod, but I'd love to see more fat folks in styles like this." Price at time of publication: $74 for top Sizes: XS to XL | Materials: 92 percent polyester, 8 percent spandex | Sustainability: Recycled materials The 12 Best Swimsuit Brands of 2023, According to Frequent Travelers Best Underwire Swimsuits for All Gabifresh Underwire Bikini Set Swimsuits for All View On Swimsuitsforall.com What We Like Very supportive Doubles as a top What We Don't Like Off-white cup area Some underwire options scream: “we’re loaded up on hardware over here!” We all know the type. This is not that swimsuit. The flouncy cap sleeve adds a bit of sweetness, while the underwire and clasp enclosures offer plenty of bust support. And you can’t go wrong with a simple, high-waisted bottom in a beautiful terracotta color. This suit is available in sizes 10 through 26 and cup sizes D through H. Price at time of publication: $146 Sizes: 10 to 26 | Materials: 82 percent nylon, 18 percent spandex | Sustainability: N/A Best Swim Leggings Torrid Plus-Size Active High-Rise Capri Swim Legging Torrid View On Torrid.com What We Like Machine washable Stretchy What We Don't Like Not dryer-safe Water-worthy leggings offer protection from the sun and other elements and are also great for those looking for extra support. Much like workout leggings, you want a pair that will stay up without much coaxing. This simple pair of black leggings from Torrid come in sizes 10 through 30, are designed with a mesh lining, and have a chic cropped leg. Price at time of publication: $55 Sizes: 10 to 30 | Materials: Nylon/spandex, mesh | Sustainability: N/A The 7 Best Swimsuit Cover-Ups of 2023 Best Cheeky Wild Isle Capri Hide Tide Cheeky Bottoms Wild Isle View On Wildislesswim.com What We Like Reversible print options Flattering with tummy coverage What We Don't Like High-cut bottoms not for everyone The fun thing about cheeky-cut swimsuit bottoms is that everyone looks fantastic in them. Cut higher on the thigh, they also allow more room for movement. The Capri High Tide bottoms from Wild Isle come in three colors—black, Amalfi blue, and ruby/terracotta—and pair great with any style of swimsuit top (we’re partial to the Zoe High Neck Bikini Top). They also have a slightly high waist, which pairs comfortably with the higher cut on the leg. Price at time of publication: $75 Sizes: 2/4 to 22/24 | Materials: 78 percent recycled ECONYL nylon, 22 percent spandex | Sustainability: Recycled materials reclaimed from the ocean Best Rash Guard Lands End Women's Plus Size Long Crew Neck Long Sleeve Rash Guard Lands End View On Landsend.com What We Like Long torso option Coverage in and out of water What We Don't Like May roll up at stomach area More often than not, rash guards look sportier than other swimsuit patterns and designs. That’s not the case with this option from Lands’ End. This swim tee has an elegant floral design that will elevate your entire look. Rash guards are great for surfing, swimming, paddle boarding, and more. This one also features UPF 50 protection. Price at time of publication: $60 Sizes: 1X to 3X, plus size and long plus | Materials: 91 percent nylon, 9 percent spandex | Sustainability: N/A What to Look for in a Plus-Sized Swimsuit Fit First and foremost, you want a swimsuit that feels good. Think about what that means to you. Does constantly having to check on the placement of your suit drive you bananas? Are you looking for more coverage? Want to show off as much skin as possible? Find something that makes you feel comfortable, both physically and mentally. Consider how adjustable the suit is as well—can you add more support with adjustable straps? How much stretch is built in? One general tip is to sit down while trying on swimsuits. If it’s not comfortable to sit in, chances are you won’t love it for lounging on the beach. Price Swimsuit prices can vary from sub-$20 to well over $200 (and more). Stretchier suits tend to be more expensive due to the material used and manufacturing processes. Sustainably-made or locally-made suits are also more expensive since the costs are higher. If you’re on a budget and find an expensive suit that steals your heart, take note of the elements you love and keep searching. Chances are you can find something similar for a lower price. But remember that investing in a swimsuit is never a bad idea—a well-made suit can give you years of swim sessions. Material Most, if not all, swimsuits are going to be made of manufactured materials like nylon, lycra, or spandex. Swimsuits made of natural materials like cotton will absorb water, which you do not want to experience as you’re treading through waves. Most swimsuits are made with a bit of stretch, but the amount of flexibility will vary. Frequently Asked Questions What's the best swimsuit for my body shape? Any swimsuit that makes you feel fantastic. There really are no rules when it comes to buying a swimsuit that will look the best on your body—it’s all about what feels right to you and only you. How should I care for my swimsuit? You’ll want to rinse your swimsuit as soon as possible after wearing it, especially if you’ve been in a chlorinated pool. You always want to air dry a swimsuit, as tossing it in the dryer can cause shrinking. If you need to treat a stain, use a mild detergent and hand-wash it. Make sure to rinse the suit out several times—at least twice—since chlorine and salt can dig deep into the material’s fibers. How does swimsuit sizing differ from other clothing? Swimsuits will often run a bit smaller than your usual size, but it’s best to read up on the reviews before making a purchase. Remember that swimsuit materials often come with a bit of stretch. When should I replace my swimsuit? A couple of things happen when a swimsuit ages: it stretches (and doesn’t bounce back), it may become discolored, it may pill, and it might start to smell a bit off. If you don’t wear it often and adequately wash it, your swimsuit will last for years. Why Trust TripSavvy Erika Owen is a plus-size person who has done hours and hours of research on this topic. She constantly looks for size-inclusive brands and regularly reports on plus-size clothing for TripSavvy and other websites and publications. For this story, she reached out to a few leaders in the plus-size style scene, all of who have styles she deeply admires. While researching plus-size swimsuits, we spoke with Corinne Fay, the founder of the plus-size Instagram resale account @SellTradePlus, Sean Taylor of Netflix' The Circle, and model, writer, and digital creator Lydia Okello. The 14 Best Swimsuits for Older Women of 2023 Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Share Pin Email Tell us why! Submit Continue to 5 of 12 below. Continue to 9 of 12 below.