Like shopping for the perfect pair of jeans or the ultimate bra, trying to find the right swimwear can be like finding a needle in a haystack.
Add pregnancy into the equation, and you’d be forgiven for wanting to give up altogether.
Trying to find pieces that will adjust to your ever-expanding bump means taking in a whole load of factors, especially if you want to keep on using it towards the end of your term or post-partnum.
It’s not as simple as having more room around the waist; many women go up a cup size (or three) during pregnancy too. To find the right swimsuit, it needs to be extra flexible with plenty of support in the chest department. That said, it’s best to find options without underwire for both your comfort and the baby’s.
A design with adjustable straps will undoubtedly be welcome, as well as lower leg cuts to offer more support and coverage to keep you comfortable in and out of the water.
Is it safe to swim when you’re pregnant?
Swimming is an excellent low-impact exercise for those who are expecting, helping to relieve nausea and giving your joints (read: lower back) a break from constant pressure. If you’re getting into the later stages of pregnancy over summer, it also has the added bonus of helping you stay cool in warm weather. It’s considered a safe form of activity for each one of your trimesters, so if you’re looking for a cue to take the plunge - this is it.
Whether you’re going on a baby moon or just doing a few laps in your local pool for gentle exercise, these are the designs to help you - and your bump - make a splash.
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Seraphine Front Twist Black Maternity Swimsuit
Many people go on a babymoon before their bundle of joy arrives to prepare for the adventure of parenthood. If you’re planning a luxe resort break, you may want a swimsuit to match. Seraphine specialises in elegant pregnancy wear - swimsuits included.
This design with crossover straps and ruching around the body offers a flattering look, whether you’re doing a few leisurely lengths in the pool or laying beside it.
Available in sizes XS - 2XL.
Buy now £39.00, Seraphine
HUNZA G Xandra crinkled bikini
While not technically a maternity bikini, plenty of expectant celebs like Chrissy Teigan love Hunza G for its super-stretchy line of swimwear, the sort that can expand with your bundle of joy and still be worn afterwards. This one-size lilac design is perfect for anyone who wants more coverage and support in the boob area while showing off their bump by the pool or beach.
Buy now £155.00, Selfridges
CACHE COEUR Poppy Floral Maternity Swimsuit
You’ll be the envy of the aquanatal class in this bold and beautiful floral print swimsuit, offered in sizes S - XL. The straps here are fixed, but you can create extra support by tightening the ties on the reverse.
Buy now £65.00, La Redoute
M&S Maternity Printed Scoop Neck Swimsuit
Leopard print fans will go wild for M&S’s animal-themed swimsuit which features plenty of stretch to accommodate your cub. It’s also finished with UPF50+ Sun Smart technology to keep you protected against the rays and it’s chlorine-resistant too, so will stay looking good for longer.
Buy now £29.50, M&S
Seraphine UPF50 Rash Guard Maternity Tankini with Swim Brief – Blue & Green
Stay safe in the sun in this blue and green long-sleeved tankini set, crafted from recycled nylon and polyester. Wear it while you’re pregnant and afterwards too - the long zip makes it easy to breastfeed or express milk without having to take everything off. Available in sizes XS - 2XL.
Buy now £75.00, Seraphine
ASOS DESIGN Maternity knot front flutter sleeve swimsuit in black
Offering cute coverage for the tops of your arms with fluttery angel sleeves, this all-black look is a classic style you’ll want to wear while you’re expecting and when the baby has arrived.
Buy now £26.00, ASOS
La Redoute Collections Maternity Swimsuit
Add a splash of colour to your summer wardrobe with this block coloured design from La Redoute. It’s non-wired for comfort and there’s removable padding in the cups too, should you find them unnecessary. It’s lined front and back, so won’t go see-through when wet, and has adjustable straps that can cross over if you fancy a different look or want more chest support.
Buy now £60.00, La Redoute
New Look Maternity Black Heart Frill Bardot Swimsuit
Chop and change your look according to your mood in this off-shoulder swimsuit. The straps detach so you can sunbathe without those annoying shoulder tan lines, or you can leave them on to provide extra support when you’re in the water. The monochrome look is livened up with a heart polka print.
Buy now £29.99, New Look
New Look Maternity Black Over Bump Bikini Bottoms
Already got a bikini top you love? Mix and match your swim set by getting bottoms to accommodate your bump. New Look has this classic black design that’ll go with pretty much anything.
Buy now £13.99, New Look
