6 best plus-size swimwear of 2026, according to stylists and real women
The stunning swimsuits our curvy testers actually wear, from sizes 14 to 30.
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Trying to find a comfortable, affordable and well-fitting swimsuit that's within your budget can feel like trying to track down, well, a literal unicorn. And if you're shopping for the best plus-size swimwear and running into the roadblock of brands that don't go above a size 12, that's a whole new layer of frustration.
In this story
Because I spend 40 hours a week researching, testing and writing about clothing (including the best swimsuits for larger and smaller busts , the best bikini brands , the best one-pieces and more), I've pulled together a list of the best plus-size swimsuits with the help of several women who wore them and two stylists who are experts in solving shopping woes.
Our list is built on insights from real plus-size testers with a range of body types, from curvy with a long torso and more petite sizes to those with fuller hips, all in sizes 14 and up. We combed through the results of a 26-question survey that each tester completed, yielding 234 feedback points in total. This helped us weed out low performers and zero in on the swimwear gems that rose above others, from two-pieces and tops with underwire to tummy-control styles and flattering, ruched tankinis — all worth shopping for sun-soaked trips to the pool, beach and beyond.
The best plus-size swimwear for 2026
Sizes: 0-24 with a long torso option | Material: 78% recycled polyamide, 22% elastane | Colors: 9 | Neckline: One-shoulder | Padding: None | Bottom coverage: Moderate
Why we love it: When we surveyed our entire staff on the swimsuits they love and reach for regularly, Summersalt was a name that came up several times. The one-shoulder Sidestroke swimsuit is one of the brand's bestsellers and for good reason — it's secure, slightly compressive and extremely cute with plenty of color options. The Sidestroke earned 5/5 for security and staying in place as well as an average score of 4.6/5 for fit performance. One tester noted the "full butt coverage and enough support in the chest" as their favorite features.
What our experts say: "Summersalt has really high-quality fabrics. This suit is a sleek, supportive and consistently flattering option," says stylist Tara West . "This is definitely a suit I'd feel comfortable running around in, so it's great for active beach days," says Senior Style Editor Jessica Teich .
Keep in mind: Some of our testers weren't the biggest fan of the true full backside coverage of this suit. If you prefer something a little cheekier, this may not be your favorite option.
- Fun color-blocking and solid colors to choose from
- Optional long torso fit
- Comfortable, secure compression througout
- Some testers disliked the full backside coverage
Sizes: 10-30 (note that Torrid uses proprietary sizing, so, for example, size 16=1) | Material: 80% nylon, 20% spandex | Colors: 3 (top), 2 (bottoms) | Neckline: Sweetheart | Padding: Yes | Bottom coverage: Full
Why we love it: Plus-size brand Torrid offers this budget-friendly swimsuit as a classic, comfortable option we love. It features an underwire top for support and structure, along with cute bows on the shoulders. It can be paired with high-waisted bottoms with ruching across the tummy for extra comfort. It's affordable at its regular price, but it goes on sale semi-frequently too.
What our experts say: "Torrid always delivered trend-forward designs that are actually engineered for curves," says West. "I love this bikini set that balances style and structure." And since the top and bottom are sold separately, you can choose exactly which size you need for each.
Keep in mind: The bottoms have more limited size availability than the top right now. Nothing wrong with a little mixing and matching, but if you like your bikinis to match, it's worth keeping in mind.
- Affordable
- Designed for curves
- Supportive underwire
- Ruched, high-waisted bottoms
- Limited sizing options for bottoms
Sizes: XL-4X | Material: 82% nylon, 18% spandex | Colors: 22 | Neckline: V-neck | Padding: Yes, removable | Bottom coverage: Full
Why we love it: If you prefer a more modest option that fully covers your backside, a swim dress like this affordable Amazon option may be right up your alley. Think of it like a wrap-style, ruched one-piece with a built-in sarong that you can tie up to show off a little leg if you'd like.
What our experts say: Between the adjustable straps, the customizable padding and the flattering ruching, this suit is a steal for under $50. Customers say the material is thick and supportive, even for those with larger chests.
Keep in mind: Some reviewers noted color bleeding when washing this suit for the first time. To avoid laundry mishaps, we recommend washing by hand in cold water — and if you're going to toss it in the wash, make sure to do so only with like colors.
- Customizable skirt that can be tied up or let down
- Wrap-style one-piece with ruching
- Supportive enough for larger chests
- Some shoppers noted color bleeidng
Sizes: 16W-24W | Material: 69% nylon, 31% LYCRA spandex | Colors: 1 | Neckline: V-neck | Padding: Yes | Bottom coverage: Full
Why we love it: Polka dots are trending hard right now, so tap into that trend with this pretty, scoop-back one-piece. It's crafted with a ruched, draped fabric that criss-crosses across the front of the suit. And Rachel Jimenez Penca , stylist and professor of fashion styling at Columbia College Chicago, notes that this suit is versatile and "could be worn as a bodysuit and pairs perfectly with a white linen pant this summer."
What our experts say: "Miraclesuit is hands-down one of my favorite brands," says Jimenez Penca. "This suit has supportive construction and a thoughtful design. I wore one of their suits on spring break this year and felt secure, confident and comfortable."
Keep in mind: It doesn't have adjustable straps, and while it's on the pricier side, customers note that the brand's swimwear holds up really well over time, so you can think of it as a long-term investment purchase.
- Secure, compressive fit
- Draping and ruching across the front
- Durable, long-lasting construction
- On the pricier side
- No adjustable straps
Sizes: 10-30 | Material: 83% polyester, 17% spandex | Colors: 1 | Neckline: V-neck | Padding: Yes, sewn-in | Bottom coverage: Moderate
Why we love it: Between the pretty blue shade and the trailing floral print and stripes print, there's much to love about this polished Lane Bryant one-piece. It's trendy, colorful and even comes with matching wide-leg pants that would be a great cover-up for hitting the poolside bar or a post-beach dinner.
What our experts say: Lane Bryant has been an enduring fixture in the plus-size fashion world for over 100 years and they continue to deliver size-inclusive options. The stripes across the bottoms offer some visual smoothing, and the cover-up pants can be worn with your swimsuit or with a regular top.
Keep in mind: Though the straps are adjustable — a plus — because this suit lacks dedicated cups, it may not be the most supportive fit for larger chests and people looking for good separation.
- Pretty design
- Matching pants available
- Visually smoothing pattern
- No cups, just padding
Sizes: 8-26 | Material: 82% nylon, 18% spandex | Colors: 3 | Neckline: Sweetheart/V-neck | Padding: Yes | Bottom coverage: N/A
Why we love it: All the coverage of a one-piece with the freedom and flexibility of a two-piece: enter the tankini swimsuit . This flowy, colorful option from Swimsuits for All has UPF 50 fabric for sun protection and a built-in underwire, plus inner side slings for true bust support.
What our experts say: "Swimsuits For All is known for truly inclusive sizing and thoughtful construction," says West. "I like this option for its strong bust support and flattering shape." Since it's not sold as a set, you can pair this tankini top with the bikini bottoms of your choice.
Keep in mind: Because this is a lower neckline with a keyhole, it shows a little more cleavage and skin. One customer noted that they would have liked a little more bust coverage.
- Built-in underwire for support
- Bright, bold colors
- Flowy silhouette
- Lower neckline offers less bust coverage
How we tested plus-size swimwear
When it comes to testing swimwear , real-life feedback from testers with a range of body types is extremely important. We enlisted testers who self-described as having fuller hips and/or a fuller bust, short and long torsos, curvier frames and heights ranging from 5'0" to 5'7". Each tester answered an almost 30-question survey for every suit they tried, giving us 234 feedback points that we parsed to identify the highest-rated plus-size bikinis and one-pieces.
We also consulted two stylists about which features make a swimsuit well-designed for plus-size women, as well as the design details to keep an eye out for as you shop (think supportive structural features, adjustable straps, built-in bras or underwire cups for bust support, etc).
Lastly, we narrowed down a broad range of selections by prioritizing brands that specialize in sizes 14 and up and that engineer swimwear specifically for curvy body types, as they tend to perform better in fit, style and comfort. Between expert advice and survey responses from our testing crew, we pulled together this list of top picks for 2026 in sizes 14 to 30.
What to consider when shopping for plus-size swimwear
Neckline style
This may seem like a no-brainer, but on top of being a matter of personal preference, the style of your swimsuit (one-piece, tankini, bikini or swim dress) along with the neckline style has a big impact on support and comfort.
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Triangle and halter: Triangle bikinis often allow you to move the cup along the band for customizable coverage if they're adjustable. If you like the look but prefer something more secure, a halter-style with fixed cups might be a good fit. But keep in mind that since halters usually secure around your neck, you may find that this leads to neck pain or inadequate bust support compared to traditional over-the-shoulder straps.
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High neck:Your best option for maximum bust coverage, high-neck bikinis offer support and sun protection while minimizing cleavage. The biggest downside? The tan lines that they give you are typically visible underneath lower-cut necklines.
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Scoop necks: For a sporty, simple look, a traditional scoop neck is one of the most classic options. It's similar to the neckline of your average sports bra or camisole and can provide great lift and support without weighing on your neck.
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V-necks and plunge: Those who like to show off a little skin will love a V-neckline. Plunging styles may not be the most supportive due to less bust coverage, but they sure are fun. Look for thicker straps and adjustable ties to help add support in these skimpier styles.
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Underwire:If you have a larger chest, Jimenez Penca looks for "underwire or a built-in bra to support and lift the girls." Underwire will help provide structure even if the swimsuit doesn't have built-in (and ideally removable) padding. If you aren't an underwire fan, look for swimwear with soft, wire-free cups instead.
Coverage
With options ranging from cheeky coverage that shows some skin to full-coverage bottoms, there are a range of options available so you can select the one that you feel most comfortable in. And if you are looking for more modest backside coverage, a swim skirt or dress makes for a cute cover-up that you can often wear right into the water.
Material
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Sheerness: One of the biggest considerations when choosing a swimsuit style and color is whether or not it will become sheer when stretched or worn in the water. If not properly lined, lighter shades like white or pastels can sheer out when wet, so you'll want to make sure that the swimsuit is made of a thick fabric to prevent any mishaps. A quick test: "Stretch the material tightly and hold it up to the light," says Teich. "If it passes, drop on some water, let it absorb into the fabric and repeat."
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Durability: To ensure that your swimsuit is able to last season after season, look for quality fabrics that are double-lined or made of a durable material like a power mesh (a stretchy yet strong and firm material). "High-quality fabrics, especially those with Lycra or Spandex, offer better stretch and recovery," says West. "You want a material that holds its shape and support over time rather than sagging after a few wears." And check the care tag: Swimsuits that are hand-wash only and bathing suits that have sewn-on embellishments tend to be more fragile.
Sizing
"Fit is the most important factor," says West. "A swimsuit should feel secure without digging in or shifting." One of the biggest difference-makers, according to West, is to "look for brands that design specifically for curves rather than simply scaling up smaller sizes as this makes a significant difference in how the suit sits and supports the body." While bikinis and swim tops are ideally sold in bra sizing to help you find the best fit for your bust, many swim brands use clothing sizing for their swimwear. Refer to the brand's size chart to help you convert your bra size to either a number or letter size.
And when it comes to swimwear that boasts compression: "As a rule of thumb when shopping for swimwear, I go up one size to give the most comfort and coverage," says Jimenez Penca. "You also may want to order a different size top and bottom based on your unique figure."
Adjustability
Adjustable straps, bodices, and bands can make or break a swimsuit's fit. Correctly fitted straps help significantly with bust support and lift, so look for ones that can be easily shortened or lengthened — ideally, they're fixed rather than self-tie. Other adjustable features like lace-up, corset-style bodices or multiple bra hooks will aid in creating an ideal, customized fit as well.
Plus-size swimwear FAQs
What size is considered plus-size?
"In most of the fashion industry, plus-size typically begins at a U.S. size 14 or 16, which generally corresponds to an XL or 1X," says West. "However, sizing and fit models vary widely by brand, so focusing on fit and proportions is always more important than the number on the label." And Jimenez Penca adds: "An easy way to recognize if you have a plus-sized garment is with 'W' or 'X' on the label. So, 18W-24W or 1X-4X are all considered plus-size."
What are the best types of swimsuits for plus-size people?
"The best swimsuits for plus-size bodies are the ones that seamlessly shape and support but still reflect your true personal style and flair. As a stylist, it's less about covering up and more about choosing pieces that are thoughtfully designed and crafted to fit and let you move freely and confidently," explains Jimenez Penca.
What types of plus-size swimsuits offer the best support?
Look for a swimsuit that's specifically designed for plus-size bodies, rather than just a larger version of a smaller size. "Plus-size swimwear is constructed using entirely different base patterns," says West. "It's designed to accommodate fuller busts, wider hips and a more defined waist-to-hip ratio. There's also a noticeable difference in construction details. Many plus-size swimsuits include underwire, power mesh lining, wider straps and reinforced seams to provide both structure and long-lasting support."
Meet our experts
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Rachel Jimenez Penca , stylist and adjunct professor of instruction at Columbia College Chicago
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Tara West , fashion stylist
Updated Jul. 14, 2026: We reviewed all product prices and availability. Our No. 1 pick for the best plus-size swimsuit remains the same.
