Swimwear shopping has a reputation for being tricky, regardless of your age, shape, or size. Even the most confident among us can feel a flicker of dread at the thought of stepping onto a beach or poolside. As we get older, our bodies naturally change, and what felt great in our 20s might not work the same way now, and that’s totally okay. Confidence doesn’t come from looking a certain way, but from finding swimwear that makes you feel confident, comfortable, supported, and stylish all at once.
The right fit, shape, and fabric can make all the difference, helping you feel stylish and secure, wobbly bits and all. Actress Jane Seymour, 74, recently showed us how flattering the one-piece can be, wearing a daring crochet-style brown swimsuit while on holiday in Mustique.
The secret to swimwear that truly flatters? It all starts with finding the right silhouette for your shape. Look for designs with clever technical touches—think subtle sculpting panels, swimsuits with cup sizes that provide support, strategic ruching, and smartly placed seams. These are the quiet heroes of tummy-and-boob-control swimwear, offering a little extra help exactly where you want it, without sacrificing style.
Wrap-style swimsuits
Why they work: These naturally pull you in at the waist for a super-flattering, hourglass shape. They have a V-neck that can elongate the neck and enhance the décolletage. They also often include ruching or draping across the tummy—perfect for smoothing without feeling restrictive.
JD Williams zebra print wrap over swimsuit
This has secret support hiding all over the place, with adjustable ruching to cinch in the waist, light padding for a bit of lift, and wide straps for comfort and support. Plus, we love the zebra print. Available in sizes 10-26.
Dedicated wrap swimsuit Klinte stripes multi color
Swedish clothing brand, Dedicated, makes stylish swimsuits with sustainability in mind. This one is crafted from 87% recycled polyester. The tight fit will hold you in, while the ruching is flattering on the tummy. The padding’s removable and while the straps are slim, they're adjustable so you can wear with a cross-back if preferred. It comes in nine designs, including these chic stripes. Sizing runs from S-XL, so check the size guide before buying.
Cup-sized swimsuits
Why they work: These swimwear styles offer the support your favourite bra would. Look for styles with underwiring (great for lift), moulded cups, or shelf bras to give shape and support without feeling too structured. Look for slightly wider than typical straps that have an adjustable fastening at the back.
Pour Moi Castaway adjustable halter underwired swimsuit
From Brighton-based Pour Moi, this halterneck one-piece is as sexy as it is supportive. It's unpadded but underwired so you get some lift, and the crochet lace-style finish with mesh panels brings the glamour. It's available in cup sizes C-G, and band sizes 32-38. Choose from five colours.
Bravissimo Panache gingham Paloma swimsuit
From one of the leading designers of D+ lingerie, ample boobs will appreciate this balconette underwired swimsuit, with wider straps ensure no digging into shoulders. We love the navy and white gingham design in a textured fabric. Available in cup sizes DD-K and band sizes 32-40.
Skirted swimsuits
Why they work: Perfect for those who want a bit of thigh coverage while still feeling stylish. Today’s versions are far from frumpy—they offer feminine silhouettes with just enough flirt.
Simply Be Magisculpt firm control swimdress
The Magisculpt range comes in three control levels, so no matter which shape you are, you'll find a style to suit you. This comes with a longer length swim skirt and fixed foam cups for discreet control. Available in sizes 10-32.
Tummy-control swimsuits
Why they work: With clever shaping panels and smoothing fabrics, they gently hold you in and flatter your figure, creating a streamlined feel without feeling restrictive. A V-neck swimsuit takes the attention off your belly; ones with draping and designed with tummy coverage are the best.
Next coral pink lace shaping tummy control swimsuit
We love how this cleverly disguises bellies with ruching from the bust down, and the almost bra-like top has adjustable straps for a snug fit. One customer also loved how it 'covers the behind unlike some swimsuits that travel inwards!' Available in sizes 6-22, in petite, regular and tall.
Debenhams wrap detail multi-way detachable strap tummy control swimsuit
How cute is the shell print? Aside from that, this has the making of being your favourite beach-to bar-outfit - we love that it can be worn as a bandeau style or with straps, plus the wrap detail helps to smooth the tummy. Available in sizes 8-18.
