The 16 Best Plus Size Swimsuits of 2022

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Swim season is upon us, and plus size swimwear has never had such style variety until now. No matter what type of swimwear shopper you are, there's something for you on this list. While everyone has a different body type and their own feelings on what they'd like to reveal, take a chance on something new this swim season. Inclusive swimwear is on the rise, and there's so much more to choose from than the simple designs or plain black of the past.

If you're looking for plus size swimwear, begin with your dress size to start finding your perfect fit. However, each brand will vary and you may want to size up or down depending on each brand's size chart and swimwear description.

Cupshe Ruffle Plunge V Neck Plus Size One Piece Swimsuit takes the top spot for its deep v design and illusion waist that toes the line between bikini and one-piece. With a wide size range and pretty detailing, it offers the wearer something sexy and stylish, while remaining comfortable.

Read on for a list of the best plus size swimsuits available in sizes 3X or larger.

Our Picks

Best Overall: Cupshe Ruffle Plunge V Neck Plus Size One Piece Swimsuit
Best Value: Fashion to Figure Karlee One-Shoulder Cutout Bikini Top
Best Splurge: Eloquii One Shoulder Tie Front Swimsuit
Best With Underwire: Swimsuits for All Confidante Bra Sized Underwire Bikini
Best Colorblock: Summersalt The Marina
Best Ribbed Bikini: Old Navy Textured-Rib Bandeau Swim Top for Women
Best Sustainable: NoMads Bay Swimsuit
Best Shorts: Woman Within Chlorine Resistant Long Bike Short Swim Bottom
Best in Black: Meet.Curve Black Crossover Lady Vintage One Piece Swimsuit
Best Long Sleeve: Target All in Motion Plus Size One Piece Rash Guard

Best Overall: Cupshe Ruffle Plunge V Neck Plus Size One Piece Swimsuit

View at Cupshe ($34)

What We Love: The subtle bust support within the deep V design.
What We Don't Love: There could be more coverage on the bottoms.

What's great about a deep V plus size swimsuit is that it makes for a sweet bodysuit, too. Cupshe has a full line of plus size swimsuits inclusive of this Ruffle Plunge V Neck Plus Size Swimsuit. With some flare on the shoulders and a mesh see-through midriff, the swimsuit gives off the illusion of a two-piece if bikinis aren't your jam.

Fabric: 82% Nylon, 18% Spandex | Size Range: 0X-4X | Colors: 1

Best Value: Fashion to Figure Karlee One Shoulder Cutout Bikini Top

View at Fashion to Figure ($45)

What We Love: The cut-outs are everything!
What We Don't Love: The swimsuit is only available in black

This isn't your everyday swimsuit, and we love to see fashion-forward pieces on a variety of body types. Fashion to Figure carries some of the most on-trend swimwear designs for plus size bodies. For the best bang for your buck, shop the brand's Karlee One Shoulder Cut Out Swimsuit. While offering support with its underwire crossbody fit in the top, you've got tummy control with the high waisted bottoms.

Fabric: 82% Nylon, 18% Spandex | Size Range: 0X - 4X | Colors: 1

Best Splurge: Eloquii One Shoulder Tie Front Swimsuit

View at Eloquii ($160)

What We Love: The two color options make them look like totally different pieces.
What We Don't Love: The price is a bit steep for a one-piece swimsuit.

Once upon a time, one-shoulder swimsuits would be terrifying. However, this little number from Eloquii — that also comes in all black — is a marbled marvel for swim season. The thick one shoulder offers enough support for bigger busts. Plus, the bust holds a lining with removable foam cups and an inner shell bra for support—no one but you will know it's there.

Fabric: 80% Nylon, 20% Spandex | Size Range: 14 - 28 | Colors: 2

Best With Underwire: Swimsuits for All Confidante Bra Sized Underwire Bikini Top

View at Swimsuits For All ($40–80)

What We Love: The top is offered in standard bra sizing.
What We Don't Love: Reviews suggested sizing up in the cup to prevent uncomfortable digging.

Swimsuits for All has been a game-changer for shoppers of all sizes featuring trendy patterns and summer-ready colors. For an underwire fit, Swimsuit for All's Confidante Bra Sized Underwire Bikini Top gives the wearer lift and support. Shoppers can select their actual bra size to get a close-to-perfect fit in the bust.

Fabric: 82% Nylon, 18% Spandex | Size Range: 36-46 Band; DD-G Cup | Colors: 4

Best Colorblock: Summersalt The Marina

View at Summersalt ($95)

What We Love: It's simple, stylish and comfortable.
What We Don't Love: The cups aren't fit to bra sizes.

The colorblocking on this one-piece is why it remains one of Summersalt's best-selling swimsuits. Simple, cute and perfect to get you to the beach and back home with its colorful hues. Offered in four other colorblocked options with built-in cups and adjustable straps, you can sport this with a pair of jeans and no one would even peep it as water-resistant.

Fabric: 78% recycled polyamide, 22% elastane | Size Range: 2-22 | Colors: 4

Best Ribbed: Old Navy Textured-Rib Bandeau Swim Top for Women

View at Old Navy ($60)

What We Love: The square neckline that holds everything in.
What We Don't Love: It only comes in bright yellow, which may not be everyone's favorite.

More swimwear brands are taking textures up a notch and the ribbed swimsuit is on trend, if you're stumped for something stylish to pull. Old Navy offers this simple, but summer-ready, two-piece with a square neckline. With removable straps, you can sport the top as a bandeau or adjust them for a more secure fit.

Fabric: 82% nylon, 18% spandex | Size Range: XS - 4X | Colors: 1

Best Sustainable Bikini: Nomads Bay Swimsuit

View at Nomads ($145)

What We Love: The wide size range and mesh detailing
What We Don't Love: It's sustainable, so it doesn't have the same elasticity as other supportive swimwear designs.

NoMads prides itself on offering a wide range of sizes in its swimwear offerings, while staying committed to using sustainable fabrics. The Bay Swimsuit tricks the eye with its mesh colorblocking. Made with regenerated nylon and elastane, the brand offers medium impact support for the bust.

Fabric: 78% ECONYL® regenerated nylon, 22% elastane | Size Range: XS-5X | Colors: 3

Best Shorts: Woman Within Chlorine Resistant Long Bike Short Swim Bottom

View at Woman Within ($42)

What We Love: The fact that these bike shorts are knee-length.
What We Don't Love: These shorts are more mid-waist than high-waisted.

For some, shorts are the best swimwear solution—whether you want more coverage or to avoid chafing out of the water. These Woman Within Chlorine Resistant Bike Short Swim Bottoms will be your go-to, because sometimes, a basic pair of black shorts and tankini is all a person needs.

Fabric: 80% Nylon, 20% Spandex | Size Range: 8-26 | Colors: 2

Best in Black: Meet.Curve Black Crossover Lady Vintage One Piece Swimsuit

View at Meet.Curve ($31)

What We Love: It's stylish enough to wear as a bodysuit.
What We Don't Love: The swimsuit could have more butt coverage.

Retailers have gotten the memo: not every plus size black swimsuit needs to be basic. In fact, these days swim is expanding in more ways than just sizing. Meet.Curve offers a plethora of stylish and inclusive swimwear pieces. However, the cross front detail that transforms into a square back is too cute to ignore. With a peep of skin in the middle, this swimsuit is equal parts elegant and sexy with a touch of vintage vibes.

Fabric: 82% Nylon, 18% Spandex | Size Range: 0X - 4X | Colors: 1

Best Long Sleeve: Target All in Motion Plus Size One Piece Rash Guard

View at Target ($45)

What We Love: The front zip makes it an easy one-piece to get in and out of.
What We Don't Love: The swimsuit is only offered in this forest green and black print.

Finding coverage for your arms doesn't have to come in the form of a cotton cover-up. Nowadays, plus size swimwear offers a variety of long-sleeved options like this budget-friendly one-piece number from Target. With a frontal zipper to get in and out seamlessly, you can dive into any and all water sports you're prepping for this year.

Fabric: 82% Recycled polyester, 18% spandex | Size Range: 16-26 | Colors: 1

Best Tankini: Land's End Plus Size Chlorine Resistant V-Neck Wrap Underwire Tankini Top Swimsuit Adjustable Straps

View at Land's End ($75)

What We Love: The bra cup sizing is great for bigger busts.
What We Don't Love: The criss-cross design can look a bit dated.

Tankinis have changed quite a bit. Though you can still find your everyday loose-fitted version, if you want something a little bit more upscale, look to Land's End V-Neck Wrap Tankini. The fit on this is great for busts large or small with its underwire bra with sewn-in soft cups that hug you like a glove.

Fabric: 77% polyester, 23% spandex | Size Range: 16-22; DD-G Cup | Colors: 4

Best Monokini: Good American Always Fits Monokini

View at Good American ($99)

What We Love: The overall design and color variety.
What We Don't Love: There's not a lot of bust support, if your size runs bigger on top.

Monokinis have been on the rise as a middle ground between bikinis and one-pieces. Good American's stylish monokini comes in a variety of summery shades, and is made from a stretchy fabric that moves with you. Plus, it has a high-waisted bottom clasped by two cute side rings.

Fabric: 95% Polyester, 5% elastane | Size Range: XS-5X | Colors: 7

Best Swim Dress: Torrid Retro Halter Short Length Swim Dress

View at Torrid ($105)

What We Love: It's retro style looks amazing on a variety of body shapes.
What We Don't Love: The side ruching alters the gingham pattern.

Nostalgia is at the forefront of trends and swimwear is no exception. The retro '60s style swim dress is available to fuller figured bodies, as well. You can shop this style in white and navy gingham at Torrid. With adjustable straps that are also removable, you're free to make this as loose and comfortable or as tight and secure as you want. Plus, it's constructed wire-free.

Fabric: 82% nylon, 18% spandex | Size Range: 10-30 | Colors: 1

Best for Lap Swimming: Adidas Sh3.Ro Branded Bikini

View at Adidas ($59)

What We Love: The thick bra straps on these won't have you worried about a potential slip.
What We Don't Love: It's very simple and geared more for training than style.

Adidas doesn't play when it comes to giving customers quality activewear. Thankfully, the same can be said of its plus size swim line. Available in 1X-4X, Adidas high-support top features cups embedded into the seams with thick adjustable straps for added comfort and support. Not to mention, the top is perforated for ventilation.

Fabric: 78% recycled nylon, 22% elastane tricot | Size Range: 1X - 4X | Colors: 1

Best Off-the-Shoulder: Fashion to Figure Roxy Puff Sleeve Bikini Top

View at Fashion to Figure ($70)

What We Love: The cute, summery design means you could wear the top by itself.
What We Don't Love: We wish there was a little more cup support.

Off-the-shoulder tops aren't for everyone, but Fashion to Figure ensures your bust is secure when you show more skin in your swimwear. The front tie of the top is adjustable to tighten for a better fit. And the high waist is perfect for added tummy control.

Fabric: 82% Nylon, 18% spandex | Size Range: 1X - 4X | Colors: 1

Best Bandeau Swim Top: Elomi Essentials Underwire Bandeau Bikini Top

View at Nordstrom ($59)

What We Love: The bra is an actual bra from an intimate apparel brand.
What We Don't Love: It fits tight around the waist to support the wearer's bust.

Don't take yourself out of the running for a bandeaus or think they're strictly for small-chested swimmers. Elomi bras are made specifically for larger busts. Whether you use the additional straps or not, you can rest assured you're safe to run, jump—and obviously—swim without fear of flashing. Available up to an HH cup, this swim bra is perfect for strapless days.

Fabric: 80% nylon, 12% elastane, 8% polyester | Size Range: 34-44 DD-HH | Colors: 1

What to Keep in Mind

Fabric

Swimsuit fabric plays a huge role in comfort and fit. It needs to be stretchy and conform to the body and dry fast, yet maintain its color and shape in the water. A popular combo for swimsuits is a polyester and elastane blend. Elastane is super stretchy, better known by its brand names of Spandex or Lycra, and polyester is durable, and also colorfast and resistant to chlorine, so swimsuits stay vibrant. Nylon is another popular choice, because of its strength, however, it can pill over time.

Fit

When shopping for swimwear online, bear in mind what or how much you're comfortable with showing. Thicker straps can offer more support for larger busts and so can a swim top that has underwire or deep cups to keep you secure. Bikinis and one-pieces aren't the only choices. If you're looking for more coverage, swim dresses, shorts, or long sleeve designs may be an option for you as well.

Your Questions, Answered

How do I know what the right size is for me?

Start with your dress size to get an understanding of the size range you're in. This can also help you to hone in on the stores you're targeting, since, unfortunately, not all stores carry past a 3X (and some haven't even expanded to that range yet). To be even more accurate, use a measuring tape to record the size of your bust, waist, and hips and compare it against the brand's sizing chart. The size that is closest to your measurements is usually your true-to-size option. Not to mention, a plethora of tops and bottoms are sold as separates, which may be crucial if your sizing varies widely from the one-piece options or sets that don't sell separately.

Is it better to size up or down in swimwear?

Choosing to size up or down can depend on each brand's size guide and the swimsuit style you're after. If compression is what you hope to nab in your swimwear, you may want to consider sizing down. Some swimwear brands will note if their models have sized down from their dress size for a better fit. Reading reviews can also help you to understand the comfort level of the swimsuits and whether adjusting from your typical size is necessary.

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