The Ultimate Swimsuit Guide for 2022
Sharing the ulitmate guide to finding the best swimsuit for your body type. Whether you are looking for nursing friendly options, the best swimsuits for big busts, something with more (or less) booty coverage, a tummy flattering swimsuit option or all of the above, I’ve got you covered.
Just like last year, I found A LOT of options out there but I am only showcasing the best. These are swimsuits that I have either found + tried or endlessly read reviews on and have 4.5+ stars. Before we get too far into the post, I wanted to outline all my findings for the one-pieces with specifics about the top, waistline, booty area and price so you can make the best pick for you. And in case you missed it, click here to see my epic swimsuit try-on with tons of affordable swimsuit options for moms.
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I divided each of the swimsuits above (plus some great two-piece swimsuit options!) into one of four categories based on their best quality:
Tummy Control = Does it offer a high-waist, ruching, compression, and/or waistline support
Support for the Girls = Ties that offer lift, thick straps, halter style that actually stays in place, and/or adjustable straps
Nursing Friendly = Can you breastfeed poolside without getting naked? Easy access without showing the world your goods
All Sizes = Swimwear that fits a variety of body types and is just good all around. Small chest, curvy, big bust, and more.
Ruched High-Waist Bottom: This high waisted and ruched bottom provides compression and comes in a variety of cuts and colors (from full coverage to cheeky). It also pairs well with several tops that fit both big busts and small. I especially like this one (also linked below).
Scallop High-Waist Bottom: I’m obsessed with this two-piece. Here, I am pointing to the bottoms that are high-waisted and full-coverage, but the top is also a winner and I included it below in the Best for Big Busts tops too
Square Neck Ruched One-Piece: An Amazon and budget-friendly favorite! This one has 7000+ reviews and another 4.5+ stars. I love the square neck and rouging across the belly. It comes in a variety of colors but I recommend the black because I’m me.
Classic Strapless Stripe: This stopped me in my tracks at Target. Yall it is so cute and well made. Fully lines, ruching plus the stripes across the belly is so flattering. Shown on petite and full bodied models and looks great on both! Such a versatile and timeless suit! Someone please get this one.
Strapless Ruffle: I found this one through another influencer who is also postpartum and she couldn’t get enough. The feeling is mutual. This swimsuit is so flattering and feminine. Again, with the ruching and some compression for tummy control across the belly. Win-win.
One Shoulder: This is a higher price-point suit at almost $100 BUT it is also highly rated and appears to fit a variety of body types. The compression across the tummy is what most people rave about. If you are larger chested this provides compression but likely not the lift and support you may want.
Full Coverage Black One-Piece: This swimsuit has 18,000 reviews and 4.5+ stars. This is the highest rated full-coverage suit out there…and its good looking. Full disclosure: I have not bought it myself, but it looks so cute across a variety of body shapes from customer photos. If I didn’t already have a black one piece (the Lulu’s one below) I’d totally check this one out.
Criss-cross One-Piece: Another Amazon find. This one offers compression, a waistline through the middle, full coverage bottom and adds a little sexy with the mesh stripes. The best part is its under $30. Hard to go wrong.
Halter Wrap Top (+ Matching Bottom): Lots of support and pairs well with its matching high waist bottom. One thing to note is that reviews say it can be difficult to figure out how to put on. I found this to be true with another similar top.
Full Coverage Black One-Piece: Also mentioned in the “belly flattering section”
Side Tie One-Piece : This comes in a variety of patterns and colors. It has full coverage and people say it stays put too! Compression across the belly and ability to tie the girls into place are added bonuses.
Mesh Front Swimsuit: I thought this one was so well done -modest with a hint of wonder with the mesh. The square neck top is great for larger busts and provides support. Warning from reviews - not great if you have a bit of a tummy.
Cut Out Crinkle Top: Recommended by a mom-friend who just wrapped up breast feeding three babies and felt like this gave her the coverage and support she needed after three littles.
Side Tie One Piece: Also seen in the “big bust friendly” section
Long Line Plunge Halter: new for this year from Aerie and one that I am wearing all summer long. Longline fit is so flattering and the halter makes it easy to push to the side when nursing calls.
Red Ruffle One-Piece: I love the full coverage of this suit. The ruffle gives the appearance of a waistline too. This one comes in a longer length for the torso and although I do not have a long torso I needed it in this suit. Check the size guide before you order.
Full Leopard Wrap One-Piece: Similar to the other tie suits, this one has spaghetti straps and is about half the cost of the other wrap one-pieces I shared. The tie across the middle provides tummy coverage and the illusion of a waistline.
Plunging One-Piece: I have had this one piece for years and it is a favorite among gals of all sizes over on Lulu’s. I love that it has mid-rear coverage and looks sexy without being revealing
Scalloped Halter: Here she is again. This halter comes in a variety of colors and pairs with bottoms in many different coverage options. Good all-around two-piece.
Side Tie Swimsuit: I like the tie waist and the deep neckline on this one. This would look great as a bodysuit/shirt to transition from the beach to the bar. Think throwing on a sarong or wrap skirt around your waist. Also comes in a long torso option and all black.
One Shoulder: I saw a very popular influencer poll her audience for a high-waisted yet full coverage suit and this was BY FAR the biggest recommendation. One thing I did note is that when the suit does not receive 5 stars its often said something along the lines of “really sucks you in but not enough support for the girls.”
Full Leopard Wrap One-Piece: The reviews say it all. Looking at pictures this suit is so cute across a variety of body types. Read sizing and reviews to find the best fit. I suggest ordering a size up and down since returns are free.
Crinkle One Shoulder: I love this print for this year. The crinkle is so flattering and gives additional coverage for lumps and bumps. I also love how the one shoulder. This comes in several great colors including blue, green and black and my favorite - brown!
Halter Wrap Top (+ Matching Bottom): My favorite bikini top. Adjustable for small and large busts. Pairs with a variety of bottoms for any body type and with a price point of around $30 its a sweet spot to land.
Simple Sarong: If you are looking for added lightweight coverage at an affordable price ($13), this is it. I got this in natural (seen above) but there are a bunch of options. I love that it is lightweight and I feel like I can sit in the sand and play with the boys in it too (while enjoying some rear coverage).
Clasisc thin stripe maxi dress can double as a dinner date outfit too. So comfy and has pockets!
Cute Tank: I love the added detail of the tie front in this one.
Classic Jean Shorts: These are my favorite pair right now. The are made to fit loosely which feels forgiving when I am not my ideal size.
Oversized Shirt: I love grabbing one of these from my husband’s closet or just buying a traditional lightweight button down in a size up. Make sure it covers your rear. Great for end of the day when you’ve had enough sun and for walks to and from the beach. Or grab you hubby’s button down!
xx
Caroline