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First For Women
16 Best Swimsuits for Women Over 40 That Flatter All Body Types
24 days ago
The sun is out, sandals are on and the beach is calling your name — especially with the 4th of July quickly approaching. And what's a perfect day on or in the water without the perfect summer swimsuit that makes you feel confident, comfortable and chic?! But we also know that shopping for a new swimsuit isn't always the most fun task in the world and maybe you dread it every year. The good news is that it doesn't have to be that way! Here, we rounded up the best summer swimsuits for women over 40 from stylish (read not matronly) one pieces to tankinis and flattering bikinis that will make you look and feel confident.
What to look for in the best swimsuit for women over 40
Finding a swimsuit that checks off all your boxes is no easy feat. It can seem like you're hunting for a unicorn when looking for one that has just the right amount of coverage, high quality material (we want it to last for more than just one season) and a style that's age-appropriate. Fortunately, there are lots of swimsuits for women over 40 nowadays that do check all these boxes and more. Read on for additional features to look for in a new swimsuit.
1. Coverage
As mentioned, the right amount of coverage is essential for finding the right swimsuit. If you are larger-chested, look for suits that have extra bust support, such as underwire or extra lining or padding, and also look for adjustable straps and adjustable bands.
And if you need extra support, celebrity stylist Elysha Lenkin suggests sewing foam cups into the suit's lining. "I like Dritz Women’s Sew-in Bra Cups that are designed for swimsuits, and suggest choosing a ‘firm’ pair in your bra size, she says. "To DIY, cut a 2" slit in the lining on each side of the bust, insert and position the cups, then sew one side to the lining near the strap. There’s no need to stitch fully around the cup or close the slit. And if you don’t sew, a tailor or dry cleaner can do it for you."
As for bottoms, it's really personal preference as to how much coverage you do or don't want, but one thing we do recommend looking for are bottoms that will stay in place all day. You don't want any slipping or sliding when it comes to your bottoms, so looking for features like non-slip lining and quality fabric is key.
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2. Durable fabric
Speaking of fabric, the material and quality of the swimwear you choose matters as well! Avoid anything that feels or looks like it will be see-through; sometimes fabrics that are overly stretchy can end up being see-through. You also don't want fabrics that don't hold their shape well. For example, a cotton swimsuit would not hold up well once wet, as it wouldn't be able to keep its shape. Fabrics that work best and last when it comes to swimsuits are nylon, spandex and polyester.
3. Fully lined options
Lastly, we recommend looking for a suit that is fully lined. Some swimsuits that are not high quality are only partly lined or have no lining at all; you want to avoid this if possible. A fully lined suit will have a lower chance of being see-through or too thin. And the lining prevents fabric from fraying so you can get more longevity out of your swimsuit.
4. These design features
Now that you know what to look, which style of suit do you go for? At the end of the day, you should pick whatever makes you feel happy, confident and comfortable, but if you have no idea where to start, consider these tips.
For larger chests
Scoop-neck and V-neck styles will flatter best for those of us with larger busts. Avoid anything with a high neckline, as it can add unnecessary bulk. Make sure you look for padding, underwire or cups that are supportive for larger bust sizes.
For smaller chests
If you fall on the smaller bust size, opt for scoop-necks, triangle, sweetheart and V-neck styles. Sweetheart and scoop necklines help to create the illusion of curves around your chest, if that's what you're looking for.
For arm and leg coverage
Swim shorts, skirts and stylish rashguards are great options to cover up trouble spots and boosting confidence.
To highlight the waist
If you have the curves, show them off with confidence! To define the waist, look for suits with ruching, wrap styles or ties/belts. Ruching is also a great tool for masking any upper body worries.
To show off shoulders and the décolletage
Sun's out, shoulders out! If you want to show off your upper body like the décolletage and shoulders, look for asymmetrical necklines, such as a one-shoulder style.
Best summer swimsuits for women over 40
Whether you're looking for the perfect red, white and blue 4th of July themed swimsuit or a summer swimsuit that will work all season long, we've got you covered. Keep reading for the best summer swimsuits for women over 40.
This blue-and-white gingham suit features the most adorable ruffle straps, which not only make a chic statement but also offer more coverage on the shoulders/arms. Plus, it has flattering ruching throughout the bodice.
This one piece goes up to a size 20/22 and features an adjustable halter neck tie and full coverage on the bottoms. And, it's festive color and design is perfect for the 4th.
A classic black one-piece never goes out of style! This one's scoop neck is so flattering on all chest sizes, and the back of the straps feature dainty tie bows that add a touch of feminine flair. We also love that it's available in standard and plus sizes.
Could this bright floral, summery print be any cuter? A wrap-style suit helps to define your natural shape and curves. And if you're not a fan of this print, don't worry — it comes in 12 other colorways, and goes up to a size 22.
Not a fan of swimsuits with an underwire? Ditch it for this wire-free, oh-so-flattering one piece. It features full coverage on the bottom and a sexy plunge on top, the perfect balance for your summer suit. Plus, it's made with a built-in shelf bra for extra comfort and support.
Showing off some shoulder never hurt anybody! This one-shoulder one piece in this gorgeous red color will have you holiday-ready for the 4th, but the solid color also works all season long. It has built-in cups, full coverage bottoms and a flattering asymmetrical open back.
This nautical-chic one piece features a rope tie around the waist for the perfect fit and adjustability, that also highlights the waist. It also has full coverage on the top and bottom with an elegant scoop back.
A solid red swimsuit is a classic for summer (especially for the 4th). This one is ultra-flattering as it comes with a matching belt around the waist, which helps define curves and the midsection. Plus, the tie bow straps add playful pizzazz.
A classic tankini set offers amazing versatility. Tankinis are especially great for those of us who have a longer torso; it offers the coverage of a one piece but won't ride up or feel like it's pulling. This one offers a touch of sexy flair while still looking appropriate with its see through panels running across the midsection and along the lining of the straps and chest.
The print on this tankini will have you look vacation-ready even if you're just heading to your backyard pool. And the design can detract from body worries. Even better, it features adjustable side ties so you can make the top as long or short as you want.
Another one-shoulder showstopper, this bikini top elegantly showcases the décolletage and shoulders, but its supportive fabric won't feel like it's sliding down or not secure. And, it fully covers the chest, so there's no worry of dealing with any spillage.
A bikini top that has a longer bodice is ultra flattering for the summer, and better yet, offers more support. This top features a built-in shelf bra, adjustable straps, supportive underwire and goes up to an H cup. Pair it with a matching swim skirt or bottoms for a chic, coordinating swimwear look.
Best swim skirts, shorts, dresses and rashguards for women over 40
Want a bit more coverage on the bottom? A swim skirt does it in style! It can double as a cover up and a swim suit, and it can be worn with a bikini, one piece or tankini. We suggest getting it in a color that matches the majority of your suits, so you can get the most out of it.
This is not your regular swim dress! The flutter sleeves and flowy fabric instantly elevate the suit with a romantic touch. Specifically designed for plus size women, it's available in up to a size 32.
Swim shorts are a bit more casual than a skirt, but still offer the same amount of coverage. And again, they are so versatile as it can be worn with any style suit top or they even work as a cover up. We like that this pair features an adjustable drawstring waist for the perfect fit.
Burn easily? Opt for a rashguard. The long sleeves and coverage will protect arms, chest and back from the sun. And this one has UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) in the fabric for extra sun protection. Side note: how gorgeous is this color?
For more summer style inspiration, click through these stories:
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