We’re almost certain that an itsy-bitsy, teenie-weenie yellow polka-dot bikini never held Dolly or Marilyn’s buxom chests in place. And as a modern woman (especially one with an ample bosom), you owe it to yourself to find a swimsuit that’s flattering, supportive and comfortable. And we’ve got some useful tips for finding suits that not only keep you feeling your best for a day at the beach or the pool, but that will prevent you from experiencing any embarrassing nip slips. Look, we’ve all been there at least once and we never want to relive it.
As someone who is a member of the fuller bust society, I have just one major piece of advice that I’ve gathered after years of in-depth swimwear research (i.e., obsessively shopping for a new suit each summer): Bikinis and one-pieces that were specifically designed to fit your bigger boobs are going to be your best friend. That means seeking out brands that offer D+ sizing or only shopping from retailers that include bra sizes alongside their letter sizing. I don’t care if that cute triangle top is worn by every celeb ever and your BFF, if they’re a B-cup and you’re a G-cup, it ain’t going to work because it was not designed with your tatas in mind.
So, before we get into the actual swimsuits, let’s go over the four main styles that will, ahem, suit you best.
1. Underwire: A swimsuit with bra-like underwire is going to offer much of the same support as the lingerie you wear every day. But that doesn’t mean your only option is almost identical to a bra (even if it does fit like one). Plenty of swimsuits incorporate supportive underwire in new and creative ways, like inside wrap tops, tucked into bandeaus and hidden in the shelf of a one-piece.