You’ve got better things to do than try on bathing suits—which is why we keep updating this guide with the best swimwear brands worth shopping. We’re sharing swimsuits that Glamour editors have tried, tested, and found live up to the hype; ones with ample support, flattering designs, and size-inclusive options for all types of bodies. Plus, they all range in price, so you can go with high-quality designers suited for a resort to affordable picks from Amazon for a last-minute getaway. We also kept 2024’s hottest swimwear trends in mind and found collections with high-cut bikinis in metallic or animal print and one-piece swimsuits with edgy hardware and cutouts.
PS: If you’re in need of a gift for your girlfriend or partner, let this serve as your swimsuit gift guide, as many of these pieces make excellent Christmas presents.
The best swimsuit brands, at a glance
All your swimsuit questions, answered
How to shop for a swimsuit
Start by checking the swimsuit’s fabric. Opt for supportive, durable materials such as polyester, spandex, or nylon, which can withstand multiple wears and washes without breaking down or stretching out. These synthetics can hold up to chlorine and are more likely to keep their color and shape than natural picks like cotton. Some swimsuits also double as UPF clothing, which (along with your handy body sunscreen) protects your skin from the sun’s rays.
How to wash a bathing suit
Always check the label for any specific washing and drying instructions. If you’re handwashing, rinse your suit in cold water immediately after use to remove chlorine, salt, and oils. Then fill a sink with cool water, add a small amount of mild detergent, and let the bathing suit soak for up to 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with cool water to remove all soap residue. Gently squeeze out excess water (no wringing or twisting), and lay the bathing suit flat on a clean towel. Roll the towel up with the bathing suit inside to gently press out more water, then lay it flat to air-dry, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
How to find your swimsuit size
The best way to find your right swimsuit size is to measure yourself. Start by measuring the fullest part of your bust, the narrowest part of your waist, and the widest part of your hips. Once you have those measurements, consult the size chart provided by the bathing suit brand. Remember, it’s not just about the numbers; consider the style and cut of each suit as well. Some designs run smaller or larger, so it’s important to think about how you want the bathing suit to fit—snug for support, or a bit looser for comfort? Many bathing suits also come with adjustable features such as straps or ties, allowing for a more personalized fit.
What’s the best type of bathing suit for you?
The right bathing suit depends on your personal style and the activities you have planned. For active pursuits like swimming or boating, look for styles with good support and secure fastenings (nobody wants to lose their top while they’re tubing). For simply lounging by the pool or at the beach, a more relaxed fit with less coverage can work.
- One-piece: Provides moderate coverage and support, usually in a simple pull-on style. One-pieces are also available in bra sizes from some retailers.
- Bikini: Composed of a separate top and bottoms, bikinis come in an array of different styles including triangle top, halter, bandeau, side-tie bottoms, full briefs, Brazilian tangas, and more.
- Tankini: As a tank top combined with separate bottoms, a tankini offers more coverage than a classic bikini top.
- High-waist bottom: These are vintage-inspired bottoms that offer extra tummy control and support.
- Swim dresses: A one-piece with an attached skirt, providing additional coverage around the hips and thighs.
- Rash guard: A long- or- short-sleeve UV-protective athletic shirt, ideal for water sports and protection from the sun.
How to choose a bathing suit for tummy control
If you’re shopping for a tummy control bathing suit, looking for a piece with extra support is key. “A well-fitted swimsuit is more likely to offer effective tummy control, so look for swimsuits made from high-quality, durable materials like polyester and Lycra, with a good amount of stretch—this will provide a comfortable fit and better support,” Cami Raymond, senior design director at shapewear brand Ruby Ribbon, previously told Glamour.
As far as two-pieces go, Raymond recommends opting for high-waist bottoms, and if a one-piece is more your style, she suggests looking for styles that have ruching or ruffles around the midsection area. “This can help disguise any midsection insecurities and create a more flattering silhouette,” she says.
Best Swimsuits Overall: Amazon
One retailer that’ll make your swimsuit shopping a little less painful is Amazon—it has a massive selection of in-house, luxury, and budget-friendly swimwear options, and its fast shipping can have your new pieces at your doorstep in as little as two days. Glamour editor-favorites include Cupshe, Miraclesuit, and Wrewring. When shopping for a suit on Amazon (or clothing in general), we recommend verifying the seller is reliable by clicking on their storefront and reading reviews to confirm that the product is the same color and fit as it appears.
Price range: $–$$$$ | Return policy: Varies by brand, but most are returnable | Sizes: Varies by brand, but most offer XXS–XXXL
- Pros: Giant selection of affordable and luxury swimwear; fast shipping; wide range of sizes
- Cons: Content isn’t curated, so there’s a lot to shop
- Our favorite styles: Two of my favorite suits of the season come from Amazon. I was shocked by the quality of this under-$35, ultra-trendy white bow suit that was totally opaque in the water, washes well, and doubles as a top. I also love my reversible bow swimsuit, below, which has light tummy control without being too compressive and has the most darling shoulder design. —Brie Schwartz, Glamour commerce director
You probably know Aerie (from American Eagle) as your one-stop shop for comfortable underwear and bras, but have you gotten into its swim section yet? Aerie might be known as a teen brand, but adults enjoy and rave about it too (us included). In addition to being on the more affordable side, the brand makes sure to promote body positivity and inclusivity across the board through its non-edited campaigns and extensive sizing options. And there’s a swimsuit for every kind of summer aesthetic, whether you prefer offbeat prints or showing off some skin. Our current favorites include this comfortable bikini top that comes in a sparkling luxe fabric and the full-coverage bikini bottom in a ribbed finish.
Price range: $–$$ | Return policy: Returns with proof of purchase are eligible for a full refund | Sizes: XS–XXL
- Pros: Affordable; comfortable; sustainable initiatives
- Cons: Not a ton of tummy control
- Our favorite style: I wore a green crinkled one-piece from Aerie on a cruise recently and liked the coverage and fit. It’s slightly cheeky and I love the lower back exposure. My stomach doesn’t feel too sucked in, which I prefer over super-compressive fits. —Jenifer Calle, Glamour senior commerce editor
We’re partial to Free People’s boho vibes (we especially love their crocheted knits), but you can also rely on the brand’s curation and in-house line, Free-est, to bring you key fashion trends, such as glitter suits and string bikinis. Notably, Free People has doubled the number of sustainable styles in its collection since 2021. Recycled materials are found throughout its pieces, and the company donates unsold wholesale and direct-to-consumer items to nonprofits in order to divert waste from landfills. Our eyes are currently set on this Amber One-Piece with a deep V-neck and lower back design.
Price range: $$–$$$$ | Return policy: Items can be returned within 30 days of delivery date (any returns after will be exchanged for a Free People gift card) | Sizes: Sizes range by brand, but typically run from XS–XL
- Pros: Sustainable materials used; trendy styles
- Cons: Limited sizing; pricey
Cupshe is one of the brands Glamour readers shop the most. The best-selling retailer is known for its super-affordable one-pieces, bikini sets, swim dresses, tankinis, and cover-ups, including options with underwire for extra bust support and lots of ruching for tummy control. We like the wide array of sizes that Cupshe offers, ranging from extra-small picks to 3X plus-size pieces.
Price range: $–$$ | Return policy: Any items that are not listed as final sale are eligible for a refund within 30 days of the delivery date as long as they’re unworn and still tagged | Sizes: XS–3X
- Pros: Most suits are under $50 and available on Amazon; suits come in many patterns and colors; built-in tummy control
- Cons: Styles may feel more classic and retro than trendy and fresh
Summersalt is size-inclusive and great for women who are looking for more coverage but want to avoid granny vibes (with all due respect to grannies). Summersalt is best known for its Sidestroke—an off-the-shoulder one-piece that offers tummy-control compression and runs from sizes 0 through 24. Tankinis, sporty swim skirts, long-torso styles, high-waist two-pieces with adjustable straps, and an array of beach cover-ups are all on worthwhile here too. Most pieces are available for under $100 and don’t compromise on quality.
Price range: $$–$$$ | Return policy: For a full refund, items must be returned unworn within 21 days of delivery date; mail-in returns will be charged an $8 label fee | Sizes: XS–3X
- Pros: Plus sizing is available; modest, full-coverage styles
- Cons: Silhouettes may not feel sexy enough for some
- Our favorite style: Glamour tester Katherine Howell-Kiser says she appreciates the Perfect Wrap suit’s no-fuss sewn-in cups that don’t shift or slip out in the wash. “I can also adjust the wrap and make it tighter for a more snatched look,” she says.
Miraclesuit’s tummy-control swimsuits are like having a little magic in your drawer—perfect for those who want a boost of confidence at the beach along with comfort and support. The suits flatter and firm up all the right places but don’t sacrifice comfort or style. Two particular pieces we have our eyes on include this illusionist crossover one-piece that hugs at all the right places.
Price range: $$–$$$ | Return policy: Free exchanges and returns with no box or label needed (via Happy Returns) | Sizes: 6–18
- Pros: Strong tummy control and bust support; painless returns and exchanges
- Cons: Pricey
Solid & Striped keeps its designs fresh (its artistic director is queen of quiet luxury Sofia Richie Grainge, after all). While you can still find plenty of classic bikinis and belted maillots that will never go out of style, the brand has a trendy lineup this year featuring crocheted cutouts and graphic prints. Something else we love about this brand: It gives luxury without breaking the bank, as most pieces are under $100.
Price range: $$–$$$ | Return policy: All full-price items are eligible to be returned or exchanged within 30 days of purchase, and all returns are subject to a $6.95 restocking fee | Sizes: XS–XL
- Pros: Retro designs; high quality
- Cons: Pricey
- Our favorite style: I can wear this black one-piece at the beach and immediately pair it with some denim shorts as a bodysuit for post-beach activities. —Andrea Navarro, Glamour contributor
Most Supportive: Lively
Lingerie brand Lively knows its way around comfortable bras for all sizes, so it’s only natural that its swimwear is as reliable. Its Swim Ruched Plunge Bralette has attained cult-favorite status among reviewers for being that elusive mix of flattering, comfortable, and supportive—and the rest of its swimwear is just as great. Two sets we love include their ribbed bikini bandeau and bralettes with matching bottoms. Plus, the fact that you can buy them in a set—a rare occurrence in the bathing suit world—is also a bonus.
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