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Apr 08, 2024

Best Swimsuits for Women : Picks That Combine Comfort and Style

Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn a commission from our partners’ links. This content is created independently from TIME’s editorial

Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn a commission from our partners’ links. This content is created independently from TIME’s editorial staff. Learn more.

When you’re going to the pool or beach, your focus should be on having fun—not on an uncomfortable swimsuit. However, shopping for bathing suits online can easily be an overwhelming experience, especially since you can’t get a feel for material (what’s opaque in a photo can be very sheer in person) or try it on right away. That’s why we did the legwork to find the best swimsuit options for your lifestyle. So, pack your beach tote, get out the sunscreen, grab your flipflops and your favorite sunglasses, and get ready to make a splash.

If there’s one suit that looks good on anyone—at any age or size—it’s the Amalfi One Piece by Andie. It comes in a wide range of sizes and is made of a stretchy nylon and spandex fabric that holds its shape well in between washes. If you’re worried that everyone and their mother will be rocking this swimsuit this summer, rest assured it comes in 15 prints and colors, as well as three different textures, including ribbed, smooth, and novelty, so you can rock yours in your own unique way.

No matter what age or stage of life you’re in, you may not be comfortable showcasing your midsection—and that’s more than OK. Luckily, there’s no shortage of bathing suits on the market that specialize in tummy control, like this one from TA3, which gained notoriety on the show Shark Tank. This swimsuit still allows you to flaunt your figure and holds its form whether it’s wet, dry, or recently washed. It’s made of lightweight shapewear material, and features a lace-up back that cinches your waist.

Our team tested the TA3 Hi-Cut Plungey (which has a higher leg opening than the Plungey) and the TA3 Hi-Cut Squarey to see if the suits lived up to the hype. (The TA3 swimwear line has been all over social media lately.) Our tester was initially skeptical of the idea of a swimsuit that essentially functioned similar to shapewear, in terms of comfort in the sun. She reported that the swimsuit fabric was actually surprisingly lightweight—in fact, even more lightweight than a non-shaping swimsuit. (While the fabric was lightweight, it was not see-through.) She said the swimsuit was not constricting at all during a full (and active) day at the beach and did not feel hot to wear.

As for the TA3’s signature lace-up back, she found that this performed exactly how you’ll see in the brand’s videos to create an instant hourglass silhouette. The lacing is not constricting and can be adjusted based on your comfort level. While the leg opening is a bit high-cut in the front, the swimsuit stays put. (If you’re not a fan of that high-leg look, opt for the standard leg opening.) Overall, our tester was a huge fan of this swimsuit.

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There’s a reason this swimsuit has been dubbed the “unicorn of swimsuits.” It’s super versatile and flatters all figures, especially those with curvy shapes. Like the Almafi, it comes in 15 colorways, yet even more sizes ranging from 0-24. It’s environmentally sustainable, designed from a composition of 78 percent recycled polyamide, which is soft and stretchy, and 22 percent elastane, which is sweat-wicking and body-oil resistant. We love the amount of chest support this suit provides. It’s designed without cups or padding, but still holds the girls in securely.

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Few swimsuit brands go up in sizing all the way into the 30s, but that’s what makes Swimsuits for All such a unique brand. They’re body positive, include a wide range of sizes, and offer stunning styles and prints for all to enjoy. Their Sarong One Piece flatters so many body types, especially those plus-size, as it has wide straps, full bust support, tummy-control front lining and a draped front that acts like a sarong.

Specifications

The secret to this swimsuit being super supportive for large busts is that it’s made from a company that specializes in bras. It’s no surprise that they’ve mastered the sexy, yet comfortable and supportive swimsuit top, as well as the matching high-waisted bottom that’s equally flattering for full figures. We love how they have a little calculator that lets you find your perfect size as well as the fact that it has an adjustable back closure that lets you find your most ideal fit.

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For a bikini top and bottom set, you can’t get much more affordable than Cupshe, which has been rising to the top of the fast-fashion ranks with its colorful swimsuits and flattering styles. This one features a tie-dye pattern, textured fabric and a scoop neck that looks good on so many different body types. It’s perfect for a beach vacation, European escape or simply soaking up sun in the comfort of your own backyard.

This one-piece is worth the splurge. It’s flattering and curve-defining, with a removable belt that adds a level of sophistication. The bandeau neckline prevents any tan lines and the side boning ensures strong shape definition. You also don’t have to worry about this suit sliding down, since it’s designed with gripper tape on the interior to keep the swimsuit in place.

Comfortable, quick-drying, and flattering—all for under $30? This sporty swimsuit top is a steal. (Coordinating bottoms are available in a ruched boy short style, fitted board short, or bikini bottom.) The high-neck racerback top is supportive without feeling overly tight or flattening, staying in place for any beach activities your day may bring. The top also is stylish enough to wear out and about.

This swimsuit is designed to be a head-turner, with its glittery fabric and unique center cutout. Though it’s form fitting, it’s designed for comfort, thanks to its stretchy fabric made from nylon and spandex and adjustable shoulder straps. The only drawback to this suit is that its sizes are limited—it only comes in five sizes ranging from XS to XL.

While style matters, you’ll want to invest in quality swimwear that fits well and is comfortable to wear. Of course, as with all types of clothing, swimsuits vary significantly in all areas, including material, sizing, price, and performance.

To help you weigh your options, we’ve compiled a list of the best swimsuits on the market designed for women. We combed through customer reviews and relied on first-hand opinions about which swimsuits were the most comfortable, flattering, and stylish for all body types, with individual preferences in mind.

Since everyone’s body is different, what might look slimming on one person might not look quite as slimming on the next. However, there are a few features in a swimsuit that can be flattering for most body types and that includes swimsuits with tummy control—built-in shapewear that helps smooth and flatten the stomach area. High-waisted bikini bottoms, too, can help make the legs appear longer and tuck in the tummy.

There’s no golden number when it comes to how many swimsuits a woman should own, but 3-5 can help you get through the summer season without feeling like you’re wearing the same swimsuits on repeat.

The best swimsuit is one that makes you feel your best. According to stylists, swimsuits that are most ideal for individuals with a straight body shape are those that have plunging necklines and high-waisted bottoms, as well as side ruching, to enhance the look of curves.

Swimsuits with tummy control, that help hold in the mid-section, can be useful for hiding belly fat in your swimsuits. Ruching can also help to create texture in areas that are bulging.

To enhance the longevity of your swimsuit, be sure to rinse it out after each use to get rid of any sunscreen, chlorine or sweat buildup. You may also want to wash your swimsuit by hand and hang it to dry to prevent the fabric from losing its shape.

To ensure proper support and comfort, be sure to shop your size and pay attention to the cut of the swimsuit. Comfort is key, so you should be able to move freely in your swimsuit and wear it for long periods of time.

As with any type of clothing, sizing varies when it comes to swimsuits. It’s a good idea to take recent measurements of your body and check the size chart provided on the website to make sure that you’re getting as close as possible to the best size for you.

The information presented here is created independently from the TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About page.