The best swimsuits for women of 2026, according to testing
Our top picks are based on 300 survey responses from real women who tested over 40 swimsuits.
Our experts independently review everything we recommend. If you buy through our links, we may earn commission.
Swimsuit shopping can feel oddly high-stakes for something you're supposed to wear while relaxing. So instead of guessing or relying on whatever's trending, we tested top brands to find the swimsuits for women that deliver on style, comfort, wearability and durability.
In this story
We tested swimwear to find the best one-pieces, bikinis , tankinis and swim dresses from more than 21 popular swimwear brands, using feedback from 20 testers with a wide range of body types in sizes 0–18. They wore the suits in real-life conditions, swimming laps, beach days, hot tubs and more to see how they performed over time. Across 308 survey responses, testers weighed in on fit, support, coverage, security, comfort and durability.
These are the suits we'll actually be reaching for on repeat this summer, including tummy control swimsuits , one-pieces and bikinis, plus-size swim , Amazon top-sellers and finds for women over 50 .
The best one-piece swimsuits for women
Sizes:2-22 | Colors:8 options | Material:78% recycled polyamide, 22% elastane | Padding:Yes (Built-in) | Neckline:V-neck | Coverage:Cheeky
Why we love it:Supportive one-pieces can sometimes skew overly sporty or conservative, but this one feels flattering, polished and genuinely comfortable. The wrap silhouette creates a smoothing effect through the midsection, while built-in shaping cups add structure and support without feeling restrictive. Testers also loved the thick, high-quality fabric and range of color options, including a fun leopard print.
What testers say:"I found this swimsuit incredibly flattering, especially through the tummy, thanks to the wrap-style design," said one tester. It had "just the right amount of compression — enough to feel smoothing and secure, but not so much that it was uncomfortable," they said.
Keep in mind:The leg cut runs a bit high, giving the suit a slightly cheekier fit with a little less front coverage than some may prefer. The straps aren't adjustable, either, and testers occasionally had to readjust the wrap tie during wear.
- Flattering wrap-style
- Range of colors
- More inclusive sizing
- Smoothing material
- May be too cheeky for some
- Wrap may need some adjustments
Size:XS-22P | Colors:43 options | Material:82% polyester, 18% spandex | Padding:Yes, removable | Neckline:Scoop | Coverage:Full
Why we love it:This affordable swim dress manages to feel cute, comfortable and surprisingly versatile. The scoop neckline and side-tie skirt give it a slightly more styled feel than a standard one-piece, and the built-in skirt can be worn tied up to show a little more leg or left down for extra coverage. It also has the kind of wear-all-day comfort that made it a standout with testers.
What testers say:One tester especially appreciated the added coverage from the skirt, saying it gave her more confidence participating in water activities without feeling overly exposed. She also noted that while part of the back becomes sheer when wet, "the front is lined and the skirt around the bottom prevents you from showing off anything you don't want to be seen."
Keep in mind:Testers wished the suit offered a bit more support overall. Rear coverage was also a sticking point for some testers. One rated it just 2/5 for coverage, adding, "I'm fairly bootylicious, so those who are a little smaller might not have that problem."
- Versatile wear options; skirt can be tied up
- Flattering scoop neckline
- Lined to avoid sheering out when wet
- Good thigh coverage
- Not much tummy control
- Rear coverage could be better
Size:XXS-4X; Short, Regular/Long, and XLong torso; B/C-J/K cups | Colors:5 options | Material:75% nylon, 25% spandex | Padding:No | Neckline:Sweetheart | Coverage:Full
Why we love it:If your priority is shaping and sculpting, this suit really delivers with its corset-style back that lets you customize how much compression you want through the waist by tightening or loosening the lacing. Thick adjustable straps and underwire add extra support, while the color-blocking enhances the contouring effect even more. As one tester put it: "Honestly, this is probably the best shaping bathing suit I've ever tried on."
What testers say:This was among the highest-scoring swimsuits in our entire test, earning perfect 5/5 scores for appearance, fit, comfort, adjustability, security and overall look. One tester said, "I'm almost 52, for me to say this swimsuit makes me feel confident enough to be seen out in the wild, that's a big deal." Another added: "Pricey, but worth it! It's immediately obvious that the fabric is thicker than most. It sucks you in due to the awesome built-in shapewear. I love the optical illusion that makes me look like an hourglass."
Keep in mind:The size range is extremely extensive, with options for torso length and cup sizing, but the fit may work best for fuller busts. While the brand technically starts at B/C cups, one tester with an A/B cup found the chest area slightly too roomy. There's also no built-in or removable padding if that's something you prefer.
- Color blocking gives a visual slimming effect
- Adjustable waist ties to customize fit
- Huge range of sizing options and customizations
- Thicker, adjustable straps
- Not designed for smaller than a B/C cup
Size:0-24; Regular/Long torso | Colors:5 options | Material:38% recycled polyamide/36% recycled polyester/18% elastane/8% polyamide | Padding:Yes, removable | Neckline:Strapless | Coverage:Moderate
Why we love it:A strapless swimsuit that actually stays put is surprisingly hard to find, which is part of why this one stood out so much to our team. The fabric feels thick, smoothing and high-quality, creating a supportive, sculpting effect through the midsection without feeling uncomfortable or restrictive. It also comes with optional straps if you want additional support, and the classic silhouette easily doubles as a bodysuit with linen pants or shorts after the beach.
What testers say:One tester called it her go-to suit, saying it's "super slimming" and has fabric that "really sucks you in at the waist." Another said: "This swimsuit shocked me. It feels more luxe and high-end than some of the most expensive swimsuits I've tried at more than double and triple the price. It's modest but stunning on with a slightly sweetheart neckline and a low-cut leg that feels more pin-up style than full-coverage."
Keep in mind:Because the fabric is so compressive, testers said it can be difficult to pull back on once wet. "All swimsuits are, but this one is especially tricky since it's tight," said one tester.
- Pin-up style that looks elevated and chic
- Can be worn as a top with pants or shorts
- Comes with optional straps
- Long torso option
- Tight fit can be tricky to put on and take off
Size:XS-3X | Colors:5 options | Material:57% nylon, 43% elastane | Padding:Yes, removable cups | Neckline:Square | Coverage:Moderate to full, with a higher leg cut
Why we love it:Made with the brand's SPANXsculpt technology, the fabric offers strong, all-over compression that smooths and supports without making the suit feel overly bulky or old-fashioned. The higher-cut leg keeps the silhouette feeling modern, while the moderate-to-full rear coverage adds a little more security. UPF 50+ protection is a nice added bonus.
What testers say:"This swimsuit definitely sucks you in and holds you tightly. But despite all of that, I still found it very comfortable to spend hours in," said one tester. Another said that the material "felt impressively high-quality and durable."
Keep in mind:Fit was a little mixed during testing. One tester found her usual size too tight, saying, "I found it to be uncomfortably tight and ended up passing it along to a shorter friend." However, other testers felt it ran true to size, so if you're between sizes or prefer less compression, you may want to size up.
- Strong compression
- Thick, high-quality fabric
- Flattering higher leg cut
- UPF 50+ fabric
- One tester found it ran very small
Size:XS-XL | Colors:17 options | Material:84% polyamide, 16% elastane | Padding:No | Neckline:Plunging | Coverage:Minimal
Why we love it:Instead of squeezing the entire body, the shaping is concentrated through the waist for a more targeted cinching effect that still feels comfortable through the legs and bust. The plunging neckline and high-cut leg also give the one-piece a more elevated, fashion-forward feel than many shaping swimsuits.
What testers say:"I am utterly shocked by this swimsuit: I cannot believe how flattering it looks on. When I opened it, it looked so small that I highly doubted it would fit, but it does — and exceptionally well," one tester said. She also noted, "The high-cut leg and cheeky tush coverage make my legs look 9 million miles long and doesn't ride up or create cameltoe. It's a magical suit that makes my waist look cinched and accentuates the rest."
Keep in mind:The deep plunge may not work as well for larger busts. One tester with a DDD cup found the coverage a bit limited, saying: "The deep plunge is flattering, but I wish the coverage was a little broader toward the exterior; my boobs spill out on either side. I'd say if you're over a D-cup, proceed with caution."
- Targeted waist compression that shapes the midsection
- Overall comfortable fit
- Flattering high-cut leg
- Luxe, high-quality fabric
- Top coverage is a little skimpy, especially for large busts
Size:XS-XL | Colors:7 options | Material:78% recycled polyamide, 22% spandex | Padding:Yes, removable | Neckline:Scoop | Coverage:Moderate
Why we love it:This is the rare kind of sporty one-piece that feels genuinely flattering and stylish. The crossback design offers great support and security for swimming or more active beach days, while the thick fabric feels durable, luxe and resistant to snagging. Testers also loved that it balanced coverage with a more flattering, slightly sexy cut instead of feeling overly athletic or utilitarian.
What testers say:"Coverage was great. Support was fantastic. I think it gave my tush a bit of a lift, without overdoing it. And the cut was sexy without being overly cheeky." said one tester. She also raved about the color, writing: "I LOVED the red. It's a damn sexy red." Another standout feature was the fabric quality, which testers said feels luxurious. "It's strong, thick and feels impervious to snagging."
Keep in mind:Sizing may run slightly large, especially if you're between sizes. One tester said that although the suit still looked good, she wished she had sized down for a closer fit through the bust and torso.
- Thick, high-quality fabric
- Athletic, but still flattering
- Excellent support
- Runs large
The best two-piece swimsuits for women
Size:XXS-XXL | Colors:5 options (top); 7 options (bottom) | Material:85% polyester, 15% elastane| Padding:No | Neckline:V-neck | Coverage:Cheeky
Why we love it:Finding a bikini that's equal parts flattering, supportive and affordable isn't easy, but this one checks all the boxes. The ribbed fabric and flattering cut give it a more elevated feel than your standard mall-brand bikini, while the underwire top adds structure and support without making it feel overly conservative. Testers also loved that it offered surprisingly solid coverage and security for a lower-rise bikini.
What testers say:"It is so darn cute. I love the print and pattern," said one tester. She also noted that despite typically preferring padded swimwear, "no padding was needed," thanks to the combination of the ribbed fabric and the pattern, "For a low-rise bikini, it feels like this swimsuit offers pretty good coverage," she said, adding that "the top is very secure. It stayed put and didn't scootch around at all."
Keep in mind:The top can run small, especially through the band, and testers recommended sizing up if you're between sizes. Several also found the underwire a bit stiff initially, particularly between the cups and along the sides.
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- Flattering ribbed fabric
- Great overall value
- Good coverage for a low-rise option
- No padding
- Testers said the top runs small
Size:XXS-18P | Colors:14 options | Material:85% nylon, 15% spandex | Padding:Yes, removable | Neckline:Scoop | Coverage:Moderate
Why we love it:High-waisted bikinis are one of those rare swim staples that really nail the sweet spot between comfort and coverage, and this one stands out for its easy, sporty feel. The top has a secure bra-like design, and the high-rise bottoms offer extra coverage through the lower stomach without feeling restrictive. Testers especially appreciated how dependable it felt for activity: "If sporty swimwear is your jam, this is a good bet," said one tester who gave it top marks for comfort, fit and security.
What testers say:"If coverage is a priority, this is about as good as it gets for a two-piece," one tester said. "It stayed in place no matter what (I even tried doing jumping jacks in it!), and I appreciate the sports bra-like design of the top, as I'm not a fan of swimsuits that have to be tied." Comfort was another consistent highlight. "I felt comfortable in it and didn't experience any digging. There was no pinching or digging, and I'd absolutely recommend it for more active use," said one tester.
Keep in mind:The fit is true to size, but there's little adjustability, which some testers actually preferred for its stay-put feel. "It's not adjustable, which I actually prefer, because I know nothing will slip throughout the day." That said, it is a more full-coverage silhouette overall. "I would have liked if the top had a V-neck or if the bottoms were slightly cheekier," said another.
- Very secure, comfortable fit
- Great for sports or athletic activities
- Offers plenty of coverage overall
- May be too full coverage for some
- Not adjustable
Size:XS-XXL | Colors:48 options (top); 51 options (bottom) | Material:46% nylon, 38% polyester, 16% Lycra | Padding:No | Neckline:V-neck | Coverage:Moderate
Why we love it:This suit has that rare barely there feel while still offering enough structure to feel secure in the water. The top slips on like a non-padded sports bra, and the overall fit feels easy and unfussy. Testers also appreciated the thoughtful construction details, like the thin straps and subtle stitching, plus the rich and extensive color palette.
What testers say:"I found it very comfortable — almost as if I wasn't wearing a bathing suit at all!" one tester said, adding that she never felt worried about her chest slipping out. "Even though there wasn't any padding, I still felt secure," said another, who noted it worked especially well for her smaller bust. "This bikini offered the perfect amount of support and coverage for someone who wears a 30C/32B." She also added, "I didn't have to adjust the straps or top while swimming."
Keep in mind:The lack of padding may be a drawback for some. "Nipples may show (can confirm), so that can be a drawback for some," said one tester. Another DDD-cup tester found the top extremely sheer, especially when wet. Fit can also vary slightly between top and bottom, with two testers finding the bottoms a bit loose in the back while the top fit perfectly.
- Extensive color selection
- Supportive yet comfortable
- Smooth fabric
- Inconsistent sizing between the top and bottom
- No padding
Size:S-L with D and DD options | Colors:1 option | Material:94% Recycled nylon / 6% Spandex | Padding:No | Neckline:Sweetheart | Coverage:Cheeky
Why we love it:Summerful specializes in large-cup offeringscand doesn't skimp on style. " This top fit better, looked better, and made me feel more confident and comfortable than any other style I own," said one DDD-cup tester. The high-waisted bikini bottoms have a wide V-shaped crossover waistband that smooths without digging in, while the high-cut leg and cheeky but not overly cheeky back keep the silhouette feeling modern. The fabric feels elevated too — it's rich, slightly textured and has a subtle sheen that makes it look luxe.
What testers say:"The top fits me better than the majority of styles I've tried. It's secure, supportive, sexy and well-made [and] the bottoms fit exceptionally well and hit a nice balance between sexy and modest," one tester said. She added that the duo felt secure, flattering and well-constructed, stayed in place easily and felt comfortable for extended wear. "I bought this suit with my own money, despite being sent dozens of free suits from top brands," said one expert evaluator. "It's that good."
Keep in mind:Sizing may run a bit snug at first. One tester who is typically a size small found that a medium fit her better, noting that while the small worked, it "dug in a little." She added, "It's pretty much perfect, albeit pricey!"
- High-quality fabric
- Sizing for larger busts
- Flattering cut and fit on the bottoms
- Runs a bit small
Size:30AA-40B (top); XXS-XL | Colors:5 options (top); 7 options (bottom) | Material:85% polyamide, 15% elastane | Padding:Yes, fixed | Neckline:Sweetheart | Coverage:Moderate
Why we love it:This is a classic bikini set that feels both supportive and easy to wear. The underwire top is designed to shape and lift, with adjustable straps and a customizable back closure that lets you dial in the fit. Paired with the low-rise, medium-coverage bottoms, it strikes the ideal balance of flattering and functional.
What testers say:Testers consistently loved how secure and flattering the set felt on. The top offers a subtle lift even without heavy padding, while still maintaining a natural shape. The bottoms also stayed in place, making it an easy go-to for swimming and active beach days. "This two-piece fits like PERFECTION, but isn't too tight. I reach for it over my other swimsuits every time," said one tester.
Keep in mind:One tester noted some wear over time around the underwire area. Otherwise, it performed well for both comfort and support for shorter-term wear.
- Supportive top
- Secure fit
- Adjustable straps and back closure
- One tester noticed premature signs of wear
Size:XXS-XXL | Colors:12 options (top); 3 options (bottom) | Material:80% recycled nylon, 20% spandex | Padding:Yes, removable | Neckline:V-neck | Coverage:Cheeky
Why we love it:Tummy control isn't just for one-pieces, and this high-waisted bikini bottom proves it. The extra-thick waistband helps smooth through the lower and midsection, while the higher leg cut creates a more elongated silhouette. Made with UPF 50+ fabric, it's also an easy, versatile staple that pairs well with just about any black bikini or tankini top.
What testers say:"These bottoms hit at the perfect height," one tester noted. "They cover the lower stomach and settle in at the natural waist with a snug fit that's not too tight and doesn't squeeze or dig in."
Keep in mind:There is a seam that runs along the waistband that one tester felt wasn't necessary. Also, while the brand describes the coverage as cheeky, our tester found it leaned more toward moderate coverage rather than a true cheeky cut.
- UPF 50+ fabric
- Supportive and smoothing bottoms
- Doesn't dig in
- Coverage is more moderate than cheeky, according to our tester
How we tested the best swimsuits for women
We looked at more than 21 popular swimwear brands across the full range — one-pieces, bikinis , tankinis and swim dresses — pulling from a mix of industry buzz, new launches, longtime bestsellers and brands consistently recommended by editors and insiders in the space.
From there, we gathered feedback from 19 testers with a wide range of body types (sizes 0–18, XXS–XL), who put the suits through everyday life to see what actually holds up outside of a fitting room. Across 308 total responses for nearly 70 swimsuits, they scored each suit on the things that matter most: fit, support, coverage, security, comfort and durability.
Testers wore the suits in pools, hot tubs, beaches and travel settings, evaluating how easy each suit was to get on and adjust, whether it stayed put in the water, how quickly it dried, whether it ran true to size and how it held up after repeated wear and washing.
We also spoke with fashion stylists about the construction details and design choices that signal a great swimsuit. We combined their insights with our testers' feedback to score and rank the suits, resulting in this list of the best swimsuits for women that are actually built to keep up.
What to consider when looking for swimsuits for women
A good swimsuit is less about how it looks on the hanger and more about what it does once you're actually wearing it. Comfort, support and durability all play a major role in whether a suit becomes something you reach for regularly or never wear again. Here's what to keep in mind while shopping.
Structure and support
The strongest swimsuit brands build support directly into the design itself, says fashion stylist Tara West . Features like underwire, molded cups, internal lining and built-in support bands help the suit maintain its shape, offer lift and stay secure while moving around. The level of support you need often depends on both body type and intended use:
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Underwire topstypically offer the most lift and shaping.
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Molded cupsadd structure and help create a smoother silhouette.
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Sporty or scoop-neck stylestend to feel more secure for swimming or active beach days.
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Compression fabrics and strategic seamingcan create a more supportive, sculpted fit in one-pieces.
Fabric quality and durability
Fabric makes a bigger difference than most people realize when it comes to both comfort and longevity. Higher-quality suits are typically made with thicker nylon or polyester blends with elastane for stretch and recovery, and often include double lining for added opacity and structure, says West. Lower-quality materials may lose elasticity quickly or become thin and misshapen after a season of wear. Key things to look for include:
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Double-lined construction,or multiple layers of fabric, which helps prevent transparency when wet.
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Strong stretch recoveryto keep the suit from sagging over time. The elasticity of the swimsuit should feel resilient and durable.
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Reinforced seams and stitchingfor added durability and wear over time.
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Soft but substantial fabricthat feels smoother and more supportive against the skin.
Adjustability
Small design details like adjustable straps, ties and closures allow you to fine-tune support and comfort, which can completely change how a suit fits across different body types, says Belle Bakst , fashion stylist and style content creator. Helpful adjustable features may include:
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Adjustable shoulder straps
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Tie-back closures
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Removable cups or padding
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Side ties on bikini bottoms
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Multiway straps that can be styled differently
Versatility
Different styles tend to work for different preferences and activities:
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Bikinis, especially triangle bikinis,are more minimal and adjustable.
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High-waisted bottomsoffer additional coverage and shaping.
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One-piecesoften provide more support and styling flexibility.
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Sporty silhouettesare better suited for swimming or water activities.
Sizing consistency
Swimsuit sizing is famously inconsistent, which makes a brand's approach to fit especially important. The most reliable brands offer clear size guidance and, ideally, extended sizing or cup-specific options for a more precise, supportive fit — especially for those with smaller bands and larger cups or more specific support needs, says West.
When evaluating sizing, it helps to look for:
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Detailed measurement charts
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Separate sizing for tops and bottoms
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Bra-sized swim options
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Extended or specialty cup sizing
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Customer reviews that mention fit accuracy
Best swimsuits for women FAQs
How do I measure myself for a bathing suit?
To measure yourself for a bathing suit, you'll want to take a few simple body measurements using a soft measuring tape so you can compare them to a brand's size chart, says Ashley Capri , founder and designer of Capri Swim. Here's what to measure:
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Bust:Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest, keeping it level and snug but not tight.
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Underbust:Measure directly under your bust where a bra band would sit.
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Waist:Measure the narrowest part of your torso, usually just above your belly button.
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Hips:Measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat while standing with your feet together.
Once you have your measurements, compare them to each brand's size chart rather than relying solely on your usual clothing size. Many swim brands also offer bra-style sizing or cup and band options, which can be especially helpful if you have a smaller band and larger bust or need more specific support.
What swimsuit styles are trending right now?
Swimsuit trends for summer 2026 are leaning playful, textured and a little more fashion-forward than your standard solids, says Bakst. There's a strong nod to '70s-inspired prints and details, along with crochet textures. Hardware accents — like beads, metallic details and even seashell embellishments — are also elevating swimsuits. Another trend showing up right now is the "layered" bikini effect, which creates the illusion of wearing two tops at once, she says.
What's the most flattering swimsuit style for my body type?
There isn't one universally most flattering swimsuit style — it really comes down to what you want to emphasize and how you like your suit to fit and feel. In general, the most flattering suits are the ones that fit properly and stay put without constant adjusting.
A suit that fits right should feel comfortably secure with fabric that sits smoothly against the skin without sagging, pulling or gapping, says stylist and designer Ashley Grammer . If you're constantly adjusting it, it's usually a sign the fit isn't quite right.
In terms of silhouettes:
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Structured or underwire tops, halters and wider strapstend to offer the most support and shaping up top.
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One-pieces with ruching, smoothing fabric or strategic cutoutscan create a more balanced, streamlined look through the midsection.
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Higher-cut legscan help elongate the silhouette.
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Fuller-coverage bottomsoften feel more secure for active wear.
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Adjustable straps, cup sizing and thicker bandscan make a big difference in support and fit, especially for larger busts or anyone who wants more structure.
Meet our experts
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Tara West , fashion stylist
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Belle Bakst , fashion stylist and style content creator
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Ashley Grammer , fashion stylist and designer
