Plus Sized Swimsuits

When to Shop for Plus Sized Swimsuits

Because they dread shopping for appropriate swimwear, many plus sized women delay shopping for a swimsuit until late in the season when the selection is depleted. The better choice is to shop early, when there are many designs, colors, and styles available. Furthermore, many stores only stock a limited supply of plus sized swimwear, and it may not be restocked frequently throughout the season. By shopping early, it is also easy to avoid crowds of teens searching for the perfect bikini.

For the best fit, women should consider shopping early in the day when their patience and stamina is greatest. Furthermore, it is not wise to shop for swimwear after a meal or while menstruating, both of which could affect the suit’s fit. At the same time, however, women should never choose a suit based on weight they hope to lose before the summer truly starts – always find the suit that is comfortable and snug without being tight. The suit should remain in place when walking, sitting, squatting, or stretching; swimsuits that move too much will leave women preoccupied with keeping their suits in place rather than enjoying summer activities.

Types of Swimwear

There are several different types of swimsuits available in generous sizes. Because of the lack of structure and support, it is not recommended that women wear plus sized bikinis, but many other styles are flattering and comfortable, including:

• Tankinis: These suits closely resemble shorts and tank tops, and are generally more concealing than standard swimsuits.
• Skirt Swimsuits: Swimsuits with attached skirts can easily accentuate the allure of a woman’s curves while concealing larger hips or thighs.
• Blouson Tops: A blouson top swimsuit has a loose, billowy top that helps conceal a large bust, though it may not offer as much support as other models.
• One Piece Swimsuits: One piece swimwear comes in a variety of colors, patterns, and styles to make every woman feel attractive, no matter what her size.

Suit Design

The design of plus sized swimsuits is just as important as the style. Many larger sizes are equipped with control panels in the hips, stomach, and buttocks, giving added shape and support to potential problem areas. The neckline is also critical – a higher neckline supports a larger chest size while concealing more skin, whereas a curvy, provocative neckline helps draw the eye upward and away from trouble spots. The chest support in a suit is a big factor contributing to its comfort, and standard shelf bras may not be adequate for plus sized women. Soft cup bras and underwire styles are more supportive, and choosing a suit with greater back support (an X or Y shape as opposed to the common U) will also increase chest support and overall comfort.

Colors

Color is a critical choice for women who want to make a statement with their swimwear rather than their size. Black is universally slimming, but all-black swimwear does not appeal to many women’s fashion sense. The general rule for plus sized swimsuits is to choose a color or pattern that emphasizes the appropriate areas: namely, the smaller areas. A woman with a small chest and large hips, for example, would be best served by a suit with a bright, attractive pattern on top and more muted colors below the waist. Color blocks, diagonal stripes, and single splashes of color can help add flair to a swimsuit while simultaneously making it an attractive garment for any size woman.

Accessories for Plus Sized Swimsuits

A day at the beach or pool is not complete without accessories for the swimsuit, and the proper accents can make any plus sized swimwear a superior fashion statement. Cover-ups – robes, wraps, or shawls – are favored by many women because they conceal different body shapes, yet are often made from see-through or lacey materials for a distinctly feminine touch. Hats, sandals, sunglasses, bags, and even jewelry are additional accessories that highlight a woman’s style and individuality rather than her size while at the beach.

Plus sized swimsuits come in a wide rage of colors, styles, and levels of support to suit any woman. By choosing the proper suit for her specific shape and accessorizing it to demonstrate her individuality, she will radiate confidence in her body, and that will make whatever she is wearing insignificant to her inner beauty.

Shopping for Swimsuits

Many women have found success in shopping for plus sized swimwear with Land's End. The clothing company has designed a line of swimwear that slims and deemphasizes bulges, while emphasizing a woman's most attractive features. Lands End recognizes that normal women have varying bodies, and their suits are created accordingly.

Other good sits for size 14 and above swimwear are Just My Size and Swimsuits Just for Us.