Finding the best swimwear for women over 50 can be a tough task, whether you're lucky enough to be escaping the cold with a winter break in the sun, or simply taking a dip in your local pool. There are so many different styles to choose from, which can feel a little daunting. At this time of year there is less choice on the high street too, so we have done the hard work for you, spoken to the experts and rounded up the very best buys.
Shopping for a new bikini or swimsuit can be a headache, whatever your shape or size, and as we get older it gets even more challenging. We want to feel confident and comfortable as well as supported and stylish - a lot of pressure for one tiny piece of clothing! Finding the best swimwear for your body shape is key. I am a firm believer that every body is a beach-ready body, however if you’re not feeling overly confident you may want to opt for styles that use clever technical details to smooth over any lumps and bumps, like the best tummy control swimsuits. Bikinis with high waisted bottoms will offer more coverage and wrap-over designs can magically slim down the appearance of your silhouette and accentuate your natural shape. If you are curvy, look for bikini tops that provide as much support as the best bras for large busts, this will make a huge difference to how confident you feel.
While we might not want to wear the same swimwear as we did in the past (I wish I had the courage to wear the triangle string bikini that saw me through my twenties!) we still want to follow the latest swimwear trends and are willing to invest in good quality designs that will last for more than one week in the sun. Whether it's a classic black swimsuit or a colourful bikini, there's a style to suit everyone and age is no limit when it comes to looking great.
The best swimwear for women over 50
Ask any expert and they will tell you that buying swimwear is all about finding something comfortable for you. Heidi Gosman, co-founder and creative director of Heidi Klein says, “When speaking with our clients I always emphasise that they must choose something they feel confident wearing - it’s so important to get out of the mindset of over-thinking and following trends that may not suit you. Wear what makes you feel good and suits your personal style. When it comes to flattering swimwear, built-in support features are what every 50+ woman is hugely grateful for.” So whether you want something timeless or to looking to try something completely new, we have handpicked the best swimwear for women over 50 that will work now and for years to come.
Best wrap swimsuits for women over 50
Universally flattering, the cross-over design is a great shape for all body types and is especially flattering on curvy figures. The wrap-over detail creates a deep V neckline that is great for bigger busts and accentuates your waistline for an hourglass silhouette, while the cleverly draped fabric disguises the midriff.
RRP: £48 | This swimsuit combines the technology of firm and supportive lining panels with cross-over design features that draw the eye away from your hips and towards the waistline to create a swimsuit that really does flatter your curves and is available up to a size 32. The lining has soft foam cups to support the bust and wide straps that give extra support. A plain white shirt makes the ideal cover-up.
RRP: £59 | If you are looking to update your summer holiday wardrobe and need to replace your classic black swimsuit, consider making the switch to this dark blue shade. If you're asking yourself what colour suits me, navy is a safe bet for anyone. Heidi Gosman, co-founder and creative director of Heidi Klein, says “navy is a brilliant shade for any skin tone, as black can be harsh and hard to wear.” The halter neckline will create a cleavage and flatter a full bust.
RRP: £39 | The stripes on this swimsuit are cleverly angled to draw the eye inwards towards your waistline, which creates the illusion of a slimmer figure. The ruched side detail adds extra tummy coverage too. This one-piece is available in petite, regular and tall fittings and a choice of six patterns, so you are sure to find a version that fits your figure and works well when deciding what to pack for your holiday wardrobe.
Best tankini tops for women over 50
A great choice if you want to feel relaxed and confident around the pool or on the beach, a tankini will offer you more coverage than a bikini, but with the flexibility to roll up the top when sunbathing. The ability to buy mix and match briefs will give you a choice of leg coverage depending on your preference.
RRP: £66 | Crafted by one of the best plus size lingerie brands, this tankini is available up to a size 26. “At Elomi we ensure all our swimwear has the same great fit as our lingerie” says Charlotte Davies, senior designer at Elomi. “This tankini has an internal non-wired shelf with moulded cups to ensure support and smooth coverage. It’s gently flared, to skim the wearers curves."
RRP: £45 | Featuring padded cups and underwired support this tankini top will boost a smaller bust. The straps are fully adjustable for a comfortable fit. Available in bra sizes 32 - 38 B - G cup, the top has a choice of 2 styles of briefs that match, regular or high-waisted. The combination of leopard and floral print makes this a glamorous choice.
RRP: £39 | Better known for their glitzy evening clothes that are perfect if you are looking for christmas party outfit ideas, Phase Eight also sell well-designed swimwear that will elevate your holiday wardrobe, perfect for winter cruises. This eye-catching shell print tankini will look great with a wide brim hat and wedges.
Best luxury swimsuits for women over 50
If you are looking for an extra special swimsuit and can afford to splash out there are a plethora of designers who make stunning swimwear using the highest quality fabrics. These swimsuits are designed to last and ideal if you're a frequent traveller who wants to make an investment in your holiday wardrobe.
RRP: £260 | Made from sustainable fabric, Heidi says " We have used our signature ribbed fabric, which both we and our clients refer to as the ‘Spanx of swimwear’, thanks to its shapewear qualities. "It truly sculpts and shapes the body and gets rid of any unwanted lumps and bumps - particularly the tummy area where some can feel more self-conscious” The legs finish slightly higher on the hip, which will give you the illusion of longer legs and the gold V opening adds glamour.
RRP: £270 | Melissa Odabash has gained a cult following among celebrities and super models for her flattering designs and this black swimsuit from her core collection is made from premium Italian fabric. Elegant and understated this classic style is underwired and has adjustable straps. If you like the quiet luxury aesthetic this is the swimsuit for you.
RRP: £212 | This brand is considered by many women to be the leader in shaping swimwear and this swimsuit claims to make you look 10lbs lighter. Although I haven't personally tried this style I can see that the fabric contains a higher percentage of stretch Spandex compared to the average high street swimsuit, which is going to hold you in and feel really supportive. The wrap design and all-over print add to the flattering properties making this a great choice if you want to invest in a slimming one-piece.
Best high-waisted bikinis for women over 50
These bikini briefs offer full coverage up to your waistline, with tummy-control mesh linings and a low-leg design that will cover your bottom - ideal if you like to be active on the beach. Mix and match your bikini top to suit your personal preference, a sensible solution if you are a different size top to bottom.
RRP: £15 | Practical and affordable, these high waisted bikini bottoms will give you ample coverage over your bottom, with the option to tighten the drawstring sides to achieve a higher leg line. With a tummy control mesh lining for an additional confidence boost. Mix and match with a choice of three different bikini tops.
RRP: £24 | This clever style uses colour-blocking to help create the illusion of longer legs while the colourful band along the top edge will draw attention to your waistline. Ideal if you like to stay active on the beach these control briefs will keep you covered. It's worth noting you can check out our how to shrink a swimsuit guide if any of your pieces start to stretch a bit too much over time.
RRP: £70 | Contemporary and fashion-forward, the Seafolly brand are well-respected for their fun prints and colours that reflect their Australian boho beach style. But you don't have to be a teenage surfer to enjoy wearing the eye-catching patterns as the designs are figure-friendly too. These sporty bikini bottoms provide full coverage and have a regular legline.
Best cup-sized swimwear for women over 50
If you are looking for a bikini top with all the support of your best bra, especially if you are a DD+ cup size, opt for a style from a specialist lingerie brand that offer a wide choice of back and cup sizes. These swimwear styles are underwired and feature lots of technical design elements that will increase the level of support, without being uncomfortable, and ensure you feel confident on the beach. Women with smaller busts will appreciate the support of these structured styles too.
RRP: £48 | “This flattering style has gathered, fuller coverage cups with all the benefits of a well-fitting bra“ says Fantasie Senior Designer Abi Body . “The powernet lined wings provide additional support.” Available in 32-44 D-J cup, with matching mid-rise or high waisted briefs.
RRP: £40 | Picking up on one of the latest fashion trends this bikini has scalloped edges that elevate it from basic to best. The under-wired, non-padded cups offer a supportive lift and the style is available in sizes 30-38 DD-J cup. Just add statement shades for the perfect poolside look.
RRP: £85 | There are lots of clever tricks at play in this swimsuit, making it a flattering choice for many reasons. The vertical lines will make your torso look longer and leaner, the line around the waist draws attention to your waistline and the cleverly constructed cups will boost a smaller bust and create curves. Available in sizes 32 - 38 A-DD cups.
Best tummy control swimsuits for women over 50
Most swimsuits claim to have tummy control properties, and all of the swimwear chosen for this feature have firm linings that will hold you in to a degree. However some have more robust inner linings than others with more 'holding power' and can really make a difference to how you look and feel in your swimsuit. Much like the best shapewear these suits will smooth over the tummy area and create a slimming effect.
RRP: £160 | This swimsuit has an inner base suit that is constructed from 50% Lycra, which is incredibly supportive and claims to make you look a size smaller. With underwired cups and supportive straps it contours and supports the whole body, not just the tummy area. Available in sizes 10-28 in regular and long body fittings
RRP: £56 | This company design for performance and exercise swimming. Made from recycled plastic bottles, this swimsuit has a firm lining for additional tummy control. In addition the clever use of colour draws the eye upwards away from the tummy area and the dark side panels create the illusion of a slimmer waist.
RRP: £94 | Along with a powermesh lining, this swimsuit has lots of ruching over the whole tummy area, concealing and controlling at the same time. The dark navy base has swirls of gold foil and gold trim details making it a very glamorous choice. There's a matching pareo to complete the look.
How we tested
Whilst testing and choosing the best swimwear for women over 50, I looked at everything from fabric to size range. I like to invest in styles that will be both supportive and comfortable. I am a size 12/14 and wear a size 32FF bra, so it’s important that I feel secure and confident on the beach. I am a typical apple shape and I prefer to cover my tummy area so usually go for a one-piece swimsuit or high-waisted bikini. While trying on swimwear, I thought about the quality of fabrics and how supported I felt, as well as the overall design and fit.
How to choose the best swimwear for your body type
Senior designer at Elomi, Charlotte Davies told us – “The key to finding a swimsuit that is great for you is to find one that gives you the support and fit that you need to suit your body shape. Age shouldn’t be a barrier to making a bold choice if it makes you feel confident.” We totally agree – the most important thing to consider is your natural shape. Not sure what to look for? Here's a very simple guide to finding pieces to suit you and your figure.
- Pear Shapes – If you carry more weight on your bum and thighs, you should aim for pieces with higher cut legs, that will make your pins look longer and slender, rather than pieces that cut off on your hips. A bikini top will ruffles or frills will draw the eye upwards, while balancing out a curvier bottom half.
- Apple Shapes – If you hold most of your waist on your middle, look for swimsuits or bikini bottoms designed to cinch in your waist to create curves. A belted detail or a tie sash will do this nicely.
- Hour Glass Shapes – If your shoulders and hips are a similar width, you can get away with wearing most swimwear with ease. Accentuate your natural curves with a high waist bikini set, or go for a wrap-front swimsuit for the most flattering finish.
- Rectangular Shapes – If you have quite a straight frame, you can cleverly create the illusion of curves with well placed panels and wrap shapes that draw the eye to the middle of your figure.
FAQs
What is the most flattering style of bikini for women over 50?
The best swimwear for women over 50 have no rigid rules, and its totally down to your personal preference. If you feel like wearing a bikini then go ahead and wear one. Age should never be a barrier to anything we want to do. Body confidence is the key, if you feel happy and relaxed in a bikini then wear it with pride, however skimpy it is.
Confidence comes when you are feeling comfortable and relaxed. Choosing the right style of bikini that flatters your figure and gives you the support you want will help you to achieve that sense of satisfaction. “A suit with underwires will give you more support and a more lifted bust shape, especially if you are fuller busted,” says Fantasie Senior Designer Abi Body. “Features like an adjustable leg give the flexibility to style the leg line to the coverage that feels best for you. These features paired with a great-looking colour or print will have you summer-ready.”
How should bikinis be worn by women over 50?
With pride! The key to choosing the best swimwear for women over 50 is to opt for a style that will suit your needs. If you plan to spend your two-week vacation flat-out on a lounger and want to go home with a tan, then opt for a simple bandeau top paired with high leg briefs. The most important rule for this scenario is to use plenty of sun screen, regularly, and be mindful about the sun's hottest hours - as even with sun cream there is still a risk.
If you are planning to be more active, either on the beach or in the water, choose a style that will allow you to move and stretch in comfort. Look out for supportive features like wider, adjustable straps and briefs that offer fuller coverage.
The key is to be prepared and test out your choice of bathing suit before you leave for your vacation. Trying out a variety of styles at home will allow you to put them through a few simple tests, can you lift your arms above your head or touch your toes without bits of your body falling out that you would rather keep hidden? And once you've sourced your bathing suit, you'll be vacay-ready.
What colour swimwear is most flattering for women over 50?
There are no hard and fast rules to choosing a colour, whatever age you are. While black is universally considered to be a 'slimming' choice, this is by no means the only option, so consider dark navy or khaki as solid colour alternatives when looking for the best swimwear for women over 50. Playful bold patterns will look great in the sunshine and ideal for holidays while you may want something less vibrant if you are exercising in your local pool.
