Be it an impending tropical vacation, or just the looming summer season, you simply can’t get through it without the purchase of one body-baring essential in particular — a swimsuit.
I wish I could say that some women love the process, but for most, it’s torturous not only finding bottoms that fit (it’s always either not enough bum coverage or saggy bum) but a top that fits too. And if you’re busty like me (i.e., a D cup and above), you can forget about buying a set!
The D Cup and Above Dilemma
For those of us with larger busts, we already know we’re most likely looking for swim pieces that are purchased separately, or perhaps opting for a one-piece. Either way, you need something to rein those puppies in while you’re at the pool.
From one-piece swimsuits with hidden underwire to the latest trends in bikinis and tankinis in sizes up to an L cup, there is truly something for everyone, so you don’t have to feel restricted to specific styles because you are a D cup and above.
“As a general rule, go for your usual bra size when buying bra-sized swimwear, although some women feel more comfortable going up a band size in swimwear (so go down a cup size for the proper “sister size”). For example, if you usually wear a 32G bra but think you’ll need more room in the body, try a 34FF,” explains Mila Stojanovic, fit expert at Bravissimo, a UK-based company that offers bras and swimwear based on your bra size.
Stojanovic also recommends getting a bra fitting — just like you would if you were buying lingerie and wanted to double-check your sizing — so you can know your best swimwear size too, before you shop.
Features to look for when shopping for swimwear:
- Underwire: This is going to help add additional lift and support just like it does in a bra.
- Straps: Look for wider straps and also ones that are adjustable, just like on a regular bra.
- Coverage: Look for fuller-coverage cups as opposed to triangle or demi, so you aren’t popping out.
- Cups: Look for thin foam or double lining for comfort and modesty, but avoid anything with padding as it’ll just make you look larger.
Now that you know what you’re looking for, we’ve made it easy for you with some of our favorite selections! Remember, if you’re shopping for these online, use all the brand’s fit tools or website offers, such as size charts. Some, like Bravissimo, even offer virtual fittings to get the best result.
You should also check their return policies to be sure you can return it, and within the time that’s required. Another tip I like to give is if you’re really unsure of your size, you can then order one size above and one size below, and simply return what doesn’t work. It’s just like going to the store and pulling three sizes off the rack, but you’re in the comfort and privacy of your own home.
6 Supportive Swimsuit Tops
CUUP Balconette
This pared-down silhouette takes the traditionally “sexy” bra and reshapes it to be a modern, movable, made-for-support swim top. Wide-set straps offer a chic, open neckline with cups that gently lift and separate. All the sensuality of lingerie is married to the functional swim design. And the customized CUUP Slide & Set back closure system allows for band adjustability and better fit — in 53 sizes!
Price: $98 at CUUP
Sunsets Hawaiian Sun Kauai Keyhole Top
They equipped this top with a keyhole for adjustable coverage, making it a suitable option for larger bustlines. It also features an underwire and removable cups for support, adjustable straps with a j-hook, and a hidden bra closure in the back.
Price: $84 at Canyon Beachwear
Malibu Bikini Top
This pullover compression style from Athleta (with a simplistic design, much like a sports bra) provides a supportive hold for people with larger busts. If you’re looking for an active suit and don’t want to worry about everything staying where it should, this is for you!
Price: $25.99 (reg. $59) at Athleta
Coco Reef Bra-Sized Bikini Top
Versatile and sexy with an equal emphasis on fit makes this bra bikini top a must-have. A molded cup and underwire offer a supportive fit and shaping, while the convertible neckline lets you reinvent your look so you can switch up your style with each wear.
Price: $80 at Coco Reef
Swimsuits for All Underwire Swimsuit
If you’re looking for a one-piece instead of two, look no further than this trendy printed cutout style from Swimsuits for All. The sweetheart neckline hides a built-in underwire bra with molded bra cups and a power mesh frame for smoothing all the way around. It’s also adjustable in the back!
Price: $19.98 to $44 (reg. $110) at Swimsuits for All
BRAVISSIMO Brazil Bikini Top
Nothing sour about this lemon print bikini from bra-sized line Bravissimo. The hidden underwire cups in this bikini top will keep you feeling supported and you can customize the cleavage to get more or less by adjusting the bow at its front!
Price: $76 at Bravissimo
Other fit tips to remember when you’re shopping for swimwear:
- If you feel like the underwire is digging into your breast tissue, try going up a cup size, but keeping the band the same.
- If the band of the swim top is pulling away from your body or riding up, it’s likely too small, so you should also try going up a cup size — keeping the band the same.
The post Best Supportive Swimwear Tops for Larger Busts appeared first on The Real Deal by RetailMeNot.
