Everybody is beach-body ready, and we'll continue to shout it from the rooftops until body-shaming [1] is drowned out. But that doesn't mean we're all confident and fear-free when it comes to stepping out in public in a swimsuit or bikini.
Just as with any other form of clothing, swimwear comes in a huge range of designs to fit and flatter different figures, so finding the perfect match for your holiday isn't always easy. The most important thing is that you feel your best self. There is one piece of advice that we do need to share: if you're opting for white swimwear, do an at-home test before getting in the water with friends. We cannot stress enough how many times we've been caught out with more on show than we bargained for.
While there's no rulebook for swimwear shopping, there are some styling tips that might help you feel even more fabulous in your own skin. Hannah Turner, Bravissimo Buying Manager says, "We're all different when it comes to our boobs, bodies, and height so it might be a little bit of trial and error to find the swimsuit size that is the best fit for you and that you feel most confident in. If you're looking for a swim style with tummy coverage, try a tankini or swimsuit. They are not only great for extra coverage, tankini's and swimsuits are versatile pieces that can be styled with shorts and shirts to take you from beach to bar in no time."
Whether it's supporting bikini tops for fuller busts, tummy-control swimsuits, or high-waisted bikini bottoms [2], we've found the best swimwear for all body types and budgets. Just add some chunky sandals [3], a great pair of sunnies, and a handy bag [4]. Read on to see our handpicked options and, for even easier shopping, click the most relevant category for you ahead.
- Pear shape [5]
- Fuller bust [6]
- Smaller bust [7]
- Athletic frame [8]
- Tummy control [9]
- Curvy figure [10]
— Additional reporting by Lauren Cunningham
Best Swimwear For Pear Shapes
Pear shape: Like the fruit, pear shapes tend to carry weight on their bottom half around the thighs and hips, but are smaller from the waist upwards. Think Beyoncé, Bebe Rexha, and the Kardashians.
What to look for: Swimwear that can accentuate your top half, while giving enough coverage on your bottom half to make you feel comfortable.
Tips and tricks:
Best Swimwear For Pear Shapes
Boden Ithaca Halter Swimsuit [11] (£70)
Pear-shaped figures, this is a great swimwear option. The acid yellow, pink, and lilac colour-block panelled details on this swimsuit instantly draws the eye upwards, and the bust section features lightly padded removable cups for extra shape and support. This style also comes in regular and long length, ideal for those with a longer body.
Best Swimwear For Pear Shapes
Asos Frill Shoulder Bikini Top [12] (£20) and Asos High Leg High Waist Bikini Bottoms (£16) [13]
A statement detail like an oversized ruffle will accentuate your top half, broadening shoulders to balance out your figure. The high cut bottoms offer good coverage around the bottom for pear shapes whilst making legs appear longer, too. Plus the bright pink colour is must-have this season so jump on the Barbiecore trend for your summer holiday.
Best Swimwear For Pear Shapes
H&M Padded cup swimsuit [14] (£25)
This v-neck swimsuit is ideal for pear shapes as it shapes the bust with padded cups. The ruffle trim along the plunging neckline and across the top of the shoulders balance out wider hips, while the empire line cut elongates the body and highlights the waist, too. It's a classic swimsuit that will keep you feeling confident for years to come.
Best Swimwear For Fuller Busts
Fuller busts: For ladies measuring at an E cup or above, added support from swimwear can be extremely important. Celebrities including Kate Upton, Katy Perry [15], and Sofia Vergara are your style inspiration.
What to look for: It's likely you're well-versed in buying bras with extra support, lift, and hold. Swimwear should be no different. Look for bra-style tops with either underwired support or stiffer fabric.
Tips and tricks:
Best Swimwear For Fuller Busts
Form and Fold The Line Espresso Top [16] (£110) and Form and Fold The 90s Rise Espresso Bottoms [17] (£70)
For those with a fuller bust, this underwired style offers full support and caters from D-G cup sizes. There's wider straps and a hidden power-mesh fabric in the cups for reinforced shaping, resulting in a super flattering fit. The textured fabric sculpts to the body making it extra comfortable as well.
Best Swimwear For Fuller Busts
Fantasie Jungle Falls Twist Front Swimsuit [18] (£86)
If you like the coverage of a one piece but the fit of a bikini then this swimsuit is for you. The flattering twist detail fits and shapes around the bust area with a concealed underwire and upper back lining for extra support. The adjustable side ties smooth the tummy area and make the leg cut customisable. We love the colour combo on this print; ideal for any beach break.
Best Swimwear For Fuller Busts
Bravissimo Cancun Swimsuit [19] (£64)
The '80s crinkle textured fabric is having a moment in swimwear right now, but unlike many similar styles, this swimsuit offers support for fuller busts in the form of underwired non-padded cups and an inner hook gives that fitted flattering hold. Bravissimo is known for understanding boobs, so it's a reliable brand to shop from, and this Hunza G style swimwear makes the trend accessible for all.
Best Swimwear For Smaller Busts
Smaller bust: Anyone with an A or B cup falls in the smaller bust category alongside the likes of Kate Hudson [20], Natalie Portman [21], and Ariana Grande [22].
What to look for: Those with flatter chests can experiment with frills, ruffles, and patterns without the worry of needing additional support. Have fun with bikini and swimsuit options, and if you would like a little lift, opt for additional padding.
Tips and tricks:
Best Swimwear For Smaller Busts
Jette Joop By Lascana Swimsuit [23] (£45, originally £60)
For those who are smaller in the bust area, look for details such as padded cups or extra ruffles that add volume to the chest, or adjustable straps to pull on for an added boost. The frill on this plunging neckline creates extra layers in the bust area whilst the straps can be tightened to create more cleavage, if desired.
Best Swimwear For Smaller Busts
H&M Balconette Bikini Top [24] (£15) and H&M Bikini Bottoms [25] (£13)
These lined, padded, and underwired cups lift and shape smaller busts. The stitching detail on the cups also creates the illusion of a more rounded, fuller bust making your boobs appear bigger. This top also comes in fuchsia pink and leopard print if you really want to pack a punch by the pool.
Best Swimwear For Smaller Busts
Mango Crochet Bikini Top (£23) and [26]Mango Classic Crochet Bikini Bottoms [27] (£18)
Crochet is one of the biggest trends this season, and there's no reason you can't weave it into your swimwear collection. A triangle bikini is a timeless style, and suits those who don't need a lot of support in the bust area. This striped crochet design is bang on trend if you're channelling your inner Daisy Jones & The Six vibes. With side ties and a halterneck style it can be made as tight or as loose as you please.
Best Swimwear For Athletic Frames
Athletic frames: With a straighter frame and fewer curves, those with an athletic build tend to have a more muscular figure. Think Miley Cyrus [28], Ciara, and Jennifer Aniston [29].
What to look for: Embrace your build with the sports luxe trend, and look for details like neon trimming or shorts over briefs. If you'd rather create curves, try belts, ruffles, and stripes.
Tips and tricks:
Best Swimwear For Athletic Frames
Boden One shoulder Cut Out Swimsuit [30] (£75)
Get noticed around the pool in this stand-out swimsuit. The strategically placed side cut-out instantly gives a straight frame some curves in the waist area. The curved scoop cut on the back softens straight up and down figures by adding a feminine shape, while the clashing colours are a summer dream.
Best Swimwear For Athletic Frames
Roxy Colourblock Party Bralette Bikini Top [31] (£40) and Roxy Colourblock Party Moderate Bikini Bottoms [32] (£35)
This bralette top offers full coverage and support for those who like to be active in their swimwear. Its adjustable straps and 3-hole closure allowing for multiple back measurements meaning you can get just the right fit for you. This style is made from a recycled nylon elastane blend making it an eco-conscious choice.
Best Swimwear For Athletic Frames
Neubya 1/2 Zip Swimsuit [33] (£95)
Every inch of this swimsuit has been carefully engineered for performance; its racer back allows for more movement and the minimal seams make for zero chaffing. For those with athletic figures, the thick black trim will emphasise the illusion of curves whilst the red panel nips in at the waist.
Best Swimwear for Tummy Control
Tummy control: Whether you're postpartum, carry weight around your middle, or just want to keep your torso covered, many women opt for tummy-concealing swimsuits to help them feel more streamlined around the middle.
What to look for: It's all in the details. Look at whether the swimwear is made from specific fabric that helps to streamline in a similar way to shapewear.
Tips and tricks:
Best Swimwear for Tummy Control
Yours Clothing Black Animal Print Buckle Tummy Control Swimsuit [34] (£30)
Made in a stretch fabric to sculpt and support, this body-shaping swimsuit offers an abundant level of tummy support with its powermesh fabric. The ruched design flatters across the middle and the all-over bold print and chic cutout detail at the bust ensure it's stylish, too.
Best Swimwear for Tummy Control
Magisculpt Illusion Ruffle Tummy Control Swimsuit [35] (£44)
If the thought of getting into swimwear fills you with fear then this could be the confidence boost you need. With control technology fabrics and feminine ruffles across the tummy, this swimsuit has a hidden internal bust shelf for extra support. A classic black style that'll have you looking chic on the beach.
Best Swimwear for Tummy Control
Next Bandeau Tummy Control Swimsuit [36] (£42)
A ruched style combined with a graphic print is a double win for flattering most figures. The high-cut leg and sweetheart neckline emphasises curves, while the draped fabric flatters across the tummy area. Detachable straps make for minimal tan lines as well. Bonus!
Best Swimwear For Curvy Women
Curvy women: With full busts, hips, thighs, and bums, curvy girls have dominated pop culture over the past couple of years with celebrities like Barbie Ferreira, Ashley Graham, and Remi Bader taking centre stage.
What to look for: For the best fits, look to brands that know how to create swimwear for a voluptuous frame, rather than extended sizing without considerations taken into account.
Tips and tricks:
Best Swimwear For Curvy Women
New Look White Metallic Monogram Crop Top Bikini Top [37] (£16) and New Look Curves White Metallic Monogram High Waist Belted Bikini Bottoms [38] (£16)
You'd be forgiven for thinking this was a designer bikini with its luxe metallic print and gold hardware details. The scoop neckline is flattering on curvy figures, and the high-waisted bottoms offer full support, sitting on the waist. Just add oversized sunnies and some gold jewellery for poolside perfection.
Best Swimwear For Curvy Women
River Island White Belted Swimsuit [39] (£40)
Available in sizes 18-28, this swimsuit has adjustable straps and a plunging neckline. The metallic belt sits just under the bust to draw attention to the waist; a super flattering detail for those with curvy figures. The scuba fabrics adds extra hold, too.
Best Swimwear For Curvy Women
Plus Size Black Mesh V-Neck One Piece Swimsuit [40] (£33)
It's the LBS (Little Black Swimsuit) you've been waiting for. This mesh panel design offers a change to the block fabric seen on so many styles. The flash of skin across the waist area highlights curves while being a breathable style.